Winter drinks to spice up your holidays

The Apple Leaf staff looked for the best holiday drinks in the valley that we recommend trying out this holiday season and rated them on a scale of 1 to 5.

Caramel Apple Spice from Starbucks – 4/5

This delicious holiday beverage will have you fooled that your drinking liquid apple pie. The caramel apple spice is a velvety blend of fresh apple juice and cinnamon syrup topped with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle served hot. Ask for extra carmel (at no extra charge) and the drink becomes that much better. Perfect for those who want something without coffee, this drink is sure to be a hit for the holidays.

White Peppermint Mocha from Starbucks – 5/5

There’s a reason that the peppermint mocha is the front-runner for Starbucks holiday beverages… it’s the best. The perfect combination of espresso, steamed milk, mocha sauce and peppermint flavored syrup topped with fresh whipped cream and dark chocolate curls makes this a to-die-for drink. But the white version is even better. With the addition of white mocha syrup the drink is more sweet and in our opinion more delicious. Perfect for those who don’t like coffee, this drink tastes more like hot chocolate with a boost of caffeine rather that coffee. It’s the ultimate seasonal drink.

Gingerbread Tiger Spice Chai from The Java Station – 3/5

While this drink isn’t on the menu, it is a yummy drink that can be specially made. This unknown drink is a spicy blend of Java Station’s special tiger spice chai powder, your choice of milk and gingerbread flavored syrup. Served hot or iced, this one of kind drink is sure to hit the spot for those who like gingerbread. This coffee-less, one-of-a-kind drink is perfect for the winter season.

Eggnog Chai Latte from Starbucks – 3/5

Though not everyone enjoys the taste of eggnog, this version of the classic eggnog latte is much more palatable. The flavor isn’t nearly as strong and the drink goes down smoothly. In this beverage, Starbucks has taken out the powerful flavor that is not preferred by some and replaced it with the delicious tang of chai tea. Like many other Starbucks beverages, it can be made with soy, skinny, or whole milk — all of which make for a creamy sip of coffee.

Creme de Menthe Mocha from Dutch Bros. – 5/5

Craving a cup of happiness? Dutch Bros. has the perfect thing to instill holiday cheer this season. This beverage is a magical mix of chocolate, mint and classic mocha flavor. You don’t have to love the taste of peppermint to enjoy this treat. While hot coffee warms your mittens, your grin will grow with the sweet taste of this delicious drink. The smooth classic flavors may even bring back those cherished memories of all that Christmas candy you ate as a kid.

Blizzard Brulee from Java Dog – 4/5

Ever had a white chocolate mocha? Well this delicate brew takes coffee to the next level of deliciousness. As if you were gulping down liquid candy, Java Dog’s Blizzard Brulee will submerse your tastebuds in a caffeinated concoction fit for a king. Much like a white chocolate mocha, this mixture turns a bitter cup of joe into a beverage that not only steps up your pep, but is also a great option when you’re hankering for a sweet treat. It’s the ultimate drink to curl up with when the weather gets frigid this winter.