The soft crunch of snow under your boots. The feel of tacky dirt on a mountain bike trail. The High Sierra is one of those unique places where you can enjoy winter however you want. Whether you’re climbing boulders in a t-shirt or shredding powder on the slopes, there’s always a way to experience the mountains your way. No matter what adventure you choose, though, one thing remains the same—there’s nothing like a hot drink to warm you up after a day of exploring. Here are some drinks to try and our favorite spots to sip them throughout the High Sierra.
Hinterhaus Spiced Toddy @ Hinterhaus Distilling
Arnold
Nothing says winter like a warm Toddy, and Hinterhaus Distilling in Arnold, California has one you need to try. Located on Highway 4 near the High Sierra’s hidden ski resort, Bear Valley, this award-winning distillery has earned honors like ‘Best of the USA Vodka’ at the 2024 World Vodka Awards. It was also featured on the cover of American Whiskey Magazine’s January 2025 issue.
Their Toddy features the award-winning Calaveras Cask Finish Bourbon Whiskey and spiced digestif, Anorak. Not a Toddy fan? Try the Calaveras Irishman, their twist on Irish Coffee.
A Smokey ole’ Fashioned @ The Cellar Bar at Chateau du Sureau
Oakhurst
If you’re craving a touch of old-world European charm during your visit to Yosemite, a stop at the Cellar Bar at Chateau du Sureau is a must. Set on a peaceful nine-acre property amidst oak and pine forests, it feels like a French countryside estate. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, the Cellar Bar’s most popular warm winter drink is worth the detour.
Their signature ‘Cherrywood Smoked Old Fashioned’ is more than just a drink—it’s a multisensory experience. Made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, a rich orange oleo, two distinct bitters, and topped with cherrywood smoke, it’s served covered and released in front of you, creating a mesmerizing puff of smoke as the drink arrives.
Hot Chocolate @ CoffeeBar
Palisades Tahoe & Truckee
Heading to the slopes with the kids? Then hot chocolate isn’t just a treat—it’s a must to make the day extra special as part of your apres activities. While you sip on a single-origin espresso creation, your little ones can enjoy their own version of a craft beverage… but for kids and with cocoa! What makes this hot chocolate stand out is the use of local, award-winning Dorinda’s chocolate syrup, mixed with vanilla, your choice of milk (dairy or almond milk works best), and a sprinkle of cocoa sugar on top. It’s so good, it’ll knock your fuzzy socks off! Once you’re recharged, you can head out to explore the many adventures that North Lake Tahoe and its surrounding areas have to offer.
1850 Brewery
Mariposa
When California was formed in 1850, Mariposa was one of the original counties, covering a massive one-fifth of the state! Over time, its land was split off to create 11 other counties, earning it the well-deserved title of “mother of all counties.” To celebrate this rich history, 1850 Brewery is releasing a special beer, Los Mariposas, for the 175th anniversary.
Inspired by the Gold Rush era, this California Common Ale (or “Steam” beer) pays tribute to the innovative brewing method born during that time. Without refrigeration, brewers used lager yeast at ale temperatures, with steam rising from the fermenters. Cheers to that!
If beer isn’t your thing, don’t worry—Mariposa practically runs on coffee. There are plenty of local roasters and cafes ready to serve you the perfect cup. Stop by Mariposa’s Expresso for a perfectly pulled espresso, or check out Mariposa Coffee Company’s unique air roasting process, which enhances flavor, smoothness, and consistency.
Lavender Mocha @ Black Sheep Coffee Roasters
Bishop
In the High Sierra’s ‘warm winter wonderland,’ this season has every outdoor activity you can dream of. As the lower elevations start to transition into spring, a local favorite hits the scene—the Lavender Mocha at Black Sheep Coffee Roasters. With its chocolatey brown and floral notes, it’s like the snowmelt on the roadside, and it’s quickly become a must-try. Made with lavender syrup crafted from lavender blossoms, honey, and hot water, this drink is the perfect sip for the season to welcome the coming of spring! As locals say, it’s like a “hug in a mug!”
The Chip Shot @ Sierra-at-Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe
After the Caldor Fire, Sierra-at-Tahoe may look a bit different, but its spirit is still alive and shining—especially at the Corkscrew Bar. What’s a great bar without a great bartender? At Sierra, that’s Tony Dove, the “People’s Bartender.” True to form, Tony mixes up one-of-a-kind drinks, like the Chip Shot. Originally from Edgewood Golf Club, this drink is a cozy mashup of hot toddy, hot chocolate, and coffee—perfect for those chilly powder days. It’s a creative blend of Bailey’s Irish Cream, Tuaca, coffee, and house-made whipped cream. To dive into more of the south shore’s dining experiences, explore Visit Lake Tahoe’s dining page.
Author: Alex Silgalis
Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
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