Winter in Alabama has a way of keeping us guessing. Just when the afternoons start to feel like spring, another cold snap rolls through and reminds us March hasn’t quite made up its mind. On those brisk mornings and unexpectedly chilly evenings, there’s still nothing better than wrapping your hands around a warm cup of coffee or tea. After some very serious (and very enjoyable) taste-testing, we’ve rounded up the best cozy drinks to carry you through the last stretch of winter — plus one refreshing favorite you’ll want year-round.

Prevail Coffee: Spiced Orange Mocha 

While most fruits are not thriving this time of year, oranges are in their peak. Prevail Coffee in Montgomery and Birmingham is taking full advantage of the seasonal fruit and has created their twist on the classic British treat, the chocolate orange. The richness of the mocha and the warm, aromatic flavors of the spice, pair perfectly with the bright, tangy flavors of the citrus fruit. We might all be lacking in Vitamin C this winter; however, the Spiced Orange Mocha might be the most indulgent remedy around. 

The Mallard: The Healer

The Healer, a tea steeped at the The Mallard in Decatur, lives up to the name. The vibrant crimson beverage is made with elderberry healer tea, pink lemon ginger tea, honey and fresh lemon juice. Each sip feels like wellness in liquid form. It’s slightly tart, but rich and the ginger and lemon make it crisp and refreshing. It’s the perfect choice for when you’re fighting off a sniffle, or to make sure a cold doesn’t find you! Bold in color and flavor, The Healer is sure to make you slow down and enjoy a cold day with something warm in hand. 

Karma’s Coffee House: Kurt Kobean

Karma’s Coffee House in Cullman has a few drinks that they have “carefully crafted with you in mind.” While you can’t go wrong with any of their “Barista Crafted” beverages, our personal pick is the Kurt Kobean. The sweet white chocolate blended with the toastiness of the toffee nut is sure to please, but the best part is the extra shot of espresso to top it all off, which is the perfect energizer to get out of that afternoon slump.

Restoration Coffee House: The BGB

At Restoration Coffee House, The BGB Latte is the kind of drink you want in hand while wandering through the charming streets of downtown Wetumpka. In a town known as the “City of Natural Beauty,” this lavender and honey specialty feels like a true reflection of that. Delicately floral with a soft herbal finish, the BGB strikes a perfect balance. It’s comforting without being overly sweet, truly a winning formula for a relaxing start to the day.

Piper + Leaf: Briar Patch Brew

Piper & Leaf Tea Co. is offering a winter sip that is refreshing and cozy. The Briar Patch Brew is a smooth blend of tart blackberries and a bright hibiscus flavor, along with lemongrass and sage. It’s fruity without being overly sweet with a hint of herbal healing. This one can be steeped from the comfort of your own home! You can order from their online store, or visit one of their locations in North Alabama to work for a few hours or linger with friends. The Briar Patch Brew is an invitation to slow down, and will brighten up your day, even on the grayest winter day.

Pink Lantern: Ube Cold Foam Matcha Latte

The Ube Cold Foam Matcha Latte may be the only iced drink on this list, but don’t let the temperature fool you — this one can be enjoyed all year. Pink Lantern’s ube cold foam is silky, lightly sweet with a creamy vanilla richness and subtle nutty notes.With a light lavender hue, it pairs playfully with the vibrant green of the smooth and earthy matcha. At Pink Lantern, winter has been rebranded: the shades of pink and disco balls sparkling overhead catching the sunlight is the serotonin boost we all are searching for. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, this drink will be here for you year-round.

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