Drink of the Week

If you decide to skip the river of green beer that’s certain to run through LoDo this weekend in favor of a day of snowshoeing or schussing, you can still toast Ireland’s patron saint at the Beaver Creek Tavern, located at the base of the Centennial Lift (and known until recently as the Rendezvous Bar & Grill). The Nutty Irishman ($6) is a Celtic cocktail made with Irish Cream and hazelnut liqueur and served piping hot in a glass mug; it will definitely warm you up while easing away the mountain’s aches and pains. Other “winter warmer” options at the tavern include the tasty Hot Apple Pie, made with Tuaca and hot cider, and the sweet Snuggler, which combines schnapps and hot cocoa. But Beaver Creek will also offer an avalanche of St. Patrick’s Day drink specials on everything from steaming Irish coffees to frothy glasses of Guinness. And don’t forget your “Kiss Me, I’m Irish” button: The fieldstone patio is bound to be packed with rowdy spring-breakers.