Some of the greatest drinking experiences are had not in the crowded bar or nightclub, in a tasting room or even indoors at all. As the weather crisps and thoughts turn to holidays, it can be good to get away from it all. Now is the time to pack a thermos and mittens and take a chilly walk in this gorgeous state we call home. Of course, the season brings viruses with it, and one is oft stuck miserably in front of the television, nursing a flu. Fortunately, these hot drinks are good for toting along in the wilderness or just on the short stroll to the couch — in either case they make great autumnal toasts.

The hot toddy was made for just such a season. This warming concoction was once taken to soothe, but it is just as good when hale and healthy. The toddy can best be described as a sort of whiskey tea, as it is prepared by pouring boiling water into a mug over a measure of whisky. The hot water releases the aromas of the liquor in a wonderfully cozy way. Typically doctored to great effect with lemon and honey, its curative powers may have been overstated. It is soothing nonetheless and an enlivening tote-along. Avoid your high-end whiskies for this, as the lemon and sugar can overwhelm subtleties. David Russo, libations expert at G.B. Russo and Sons likes, "Paddy's Irish for a hot toddy. It is very smooth, and a good value."

Another great cold remedy for the winter months hails from Japan. Though somewhat unusual, the hot sake, honey and egg yolk that make a tamagozake are a harmonious combination. Said to bring restful sleep and boost the immune system, the drink capitalizes on the round, smooth flavor of sake combined with the richness of egg yolk for an umami explosion. Worries about ingesting raw egg may be assuaged by gentle coddling. For further assurances of safety and deliciousness, use a locally produced, Animal Welfare Approved egg from Crane Dance Farm in Middleville, Mich., which are available at the Fulton St. Farmers Market on Friday and Saturday mornings and the Ada Farmers market on Tuesdays.

A great coffee shop feels like a privilege. There are not a lot of places where a dollar or two will buy you a seemingly unlimited rental of a comfortable table in a cozy room with WiFi and restrooms included. The Bitter End (752 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids) takes the privilege one step further, being open 24 hours. Thus it is always available as a haven for cramming students, second shifters and insomniacs alike. The dark-wood room is inviting with high, pressed-tin ceilings and walls covered with photos and posters. The atmosphere is welcoming too. Whether meeting a friend to catch up or just catching up on homework, one won't feel out of place.

Of course, there is more to the Bitter End than plain old drip. For the more adventurous and sweet-loving among us, Barista Stephanie Campbell suggests the Mayan Mocha. This is no ordinary mocha, but "a very warm, Latin American- inspired" drink with brown sugar-cinnamon syrup and creme de cacao. Unlike other chocolate-flavored syrups, "the creme de cacao is made from cocoa beans, so it is more of a dark, bitter chocolate. Paired with the cinnamon it is very delicious."
The rich chocolate and espresso pair wonderfully with the spice of the cinnamon, and brown sugar lends a fruitiness that white sugar never could. The Mayan Mocha is the perfect antidote for an uncaffinated soul.

Mayan Mocha is available at the Bitter End starting at $4.

Free Wine Tasting
Clay Avenue Cellars, Muskegon
Nov. 12, noon to 6 p.m
(231) 722-3108

Clay Avenue wines are made to keep the flavor of the fruit. The fruit comes from local growers, the wine is never stripped and artificial colors and flavors are not added. The wines are described as smooth and flavorful — because of the generous amounts of fruit used in each batch. Come out
and sample some great wines.