If the stormy weather outside hasn't been enough of an indication that summer has officially come to an end, the return of one of Vancouver's most iconic seasonal beers will surely remind you that winter is just around the corner.

Granville Island's Lions Winter Ale needs no introduction for those that have come to love its complex, warming taste. Notes of vanilla, caramel, and cocoa provide a richness that fills the mouth, but doesn't overwhelm, while specialty malts and hops help balance the beer's sweet side. 

Despite it's rich, red-brown hue, Granville Island's seasonal brew is medium-bodied and about as easy-drinking as a winter beer gets. 

It's a great beer on its own, but the folks at the brewery have been getting creative with the legendary seasonal, coming up with not one but two must-try cocktail recipes that play up the beer's unmistakable flavour.

Next time you're feeling adventurous, warm yourself up with one of these Lions Winter Ale cocktails.

Lions Chocolate Orange

Ingredients:
1 glass Winter Ale
4 drops orange bitters
1 splash chocolate syrup
Ice

Method:
Fill martini glass with ice. Pour Winter Ale over ice, and add bitters. Garnish with chocolate syrup.

Winter Float

Ingredients:
1 glass Winter Ale
1 scoop candy cane ice cream

Method:
Fill large pint glass with Winter Ale. Add one scoop of ice cream. If you can't get your hands on candy cane ice cream, try flavours like peppermint, vanilla, chocolate or salted caramel.