Hunker down with Winnipegs haute hot chocolates

Sorry eggnog but even in December youre second best to hot chocolate.

And in Winnipeg, an emerging haute hot chocolate scene is elevating the traditional winter warm-up. But even if carefully concocted hot chocolates bring the flash, an old-fashioned cup of cocoa is also king. In that spirit, here are some of Winnipegs top hot chocolates.

Chocolatier Constance Popp
At just two ounces, Chocolatier Constance Popps chocolate drink may seem a bit skimpy. In this case, great things come in small packages. Its almost supposed to be a chocolate shot, says chocolatier Constance Menzies. Made with fair trade, dark Belgianchocolate, almond milk, vanilla, a touch of sugar, cinnamon and chili pepper, this liquid lovely is a tweaked version of an authentic Yucatn treat. The initial wave of cinnamon is followed by a warm rush of chili and the tongue tingles. Its also dairy and gluten free.Popp's hot chocolate is served Saturdays only. (It will be served for free on December 21in honour of the Winter Solstice.)

Dessert Sinsations
One sip of chef Barbara OHares Callebaut chili hot chocolate and you may consider trading your first born for the recipe. Its a eye-rollingly ridiculous cocoa ride straight to blissville. Hyperbole aside, Dessert Sinsations' hot chocolate is just darn delicious. This Mexican-influenced treat brings the sting of gentle heat with each taste. Youll be reaching for a spoon to contain the melting whipped cream bubbling over the lip of the mug. Its all good.

The Canister
For variety alone, Osborne Villages The Canister deserves recognition in Winnipegs hot chocolate scene. The tea and coffee emporium stocks at least 20 varieties of make-it-yourself hot chocolate all year round.At Christmas I have trouble keeping the shelves full, says owner Dennis Holack.His back room is also loaded with boxes to replenish the supply.His white and dark

hot chocolate varieties include: candy cane, maple, caramel, cinnamon bun and banana split and Black Forest, among many others. Holack also carries two sugar-free hot cocoas.

Caf Postal and Espresso Junction
Both of these locally owned coffee houses whip up a noteworthy hot chocolate thats a blast from the past. No frills but lots of froth. Creamy milk chocolate is topped with a dense cloud of whipped cream and generously drizzled with chocolate syrup. Simplicity rules the mug at these coffee shops in St. Boniface and at The Forks.