It’s getting dark helluva early these days, but if you think that signals the death of the post-work cocktail then think again.

Maybe you’re a little too late to watch the sun go down, but there’s always that post-sunset glow to make sinking a quality cocktail worth your while.

Given that winter is here, and the rain has come back with a vengeance (for now), we’re going to pick five cocktails that suit the season to get the ball rolling.

Vodka is our go-to at the moment, and because we only dabble in the finest we’re sticking with CÎROC.

We’ll set the ball rolling with the the CÎROC Apple Mimosa – can’t go wrong with a drink that works from morning through to evening.

You’ll need CÎROC Apple vodka, elderflower liqueur and some bubbles friends:

• 1. Combine CÎROC™ Apple and Elderflower Liqueur in a shaker with ice.
• 2. Shake well and strain into a Champagne flute.
• 3. Top with splash of Champagne
• 4. Garnish with apple slice.

Don’t mind if we do.

Once that’s knocked back, move onto The Lola. For this one you’ll need CÎROC Ultra-Premium Vodka, pomegranate juice, elderflower liqueur and a splash of champagne:

• 1. Combine CÎROC™ Vodka, Pomegranate Juice and Elderflower Liqueur in a shaker with ice.
• 2. Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
• 3. Top with a splash of Champagne.
• 4. Garnish with Orchid flower.

Orchid garnish – now we know you’re not messing around.

Hanging on to summer for as long as you can? Great, smash the La Piña in your face.

This one is simple – you’ll need CÎROC™ Pineapple, pineapple juice and a pineapple wedge garnish:

• 1. Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice.
• 2. Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
• 3. Garnish with pineapple wedge.

If anyone quotes the Pineapple Pen song during any point in proceedings feel free to lash out.

By this point you’ve earned what has been dubbed the Cranberry Splash – hold it together, just two more to try.

You’ll need CÎROC Apple, cranberry juice and fresh lime juice:

• 1. Combine ingredients in shaker with ice.
• 2. Shake well and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
• 3. Garnish with apples and fresh cranberries.

Go all out with that garnish – treat yourself.

Number five, our final cocktail, is the simplest of the lot because we know you’re a few deep by this point.

It’s called The Diddy, and if it’s good enough for Mr Combs we’re on board. For this twist on a vodka lemonade, you’ll need CÎROC Ultra-Premium Vodka, lemonade and a lemon wheel:

• 1. Combine ingredients in a Highball glass filled with ice.
• 2. Stir.
• 3. Garnish with lemon wheel.

Look at you go, rolling with the big dogs.

Next time someone says you’re a one trick pony bust out one of these cocktails, winter or summer, and sip on the good stuff.

That electric blanket might warm you up, but so will a few cocktails.

Tried and tested – trust us.