Chicago saw a wave of excitement in December 2025 with the debut of Soldier Field’s “Chicago-Style Hot Chocolate.” The concoction, a boozy winter treat, blends hot cocoa with Amaretto and a liquor known as Malört, heralded by its own marketing team as “not a drink for most people.” Originating in Chicago during prohibition, Malört made its official debut at the end of the era in 1933, offering a unique flavor experience for those daring enough to try it.
A video shared on Instagram ahead of the Bears vs. Packers game at Soldier Field showcased the spiked hot chocolate, sparking a range of reactions from viewers. Some were less than enthusiastic, with one user commenting, “🤢🤢 Just stop. Nobody asked for that.🙄.” On the other hand, another defended the bold choice, stating, “C’mon, you know Malört is not for the weak! Don’t disrespect it!” A third commenter expressed excitement, declaring, “This sounds amazing, are you kidding?”
In addition to the two types of alcohol in the hot chocolate, each drink is topped off with a toasted salted caramel marshmallow from Chicago-based confectionery company, XO Marshmallow.
Since its creation by Swedish-born Carl Jeppson in 1933, Malört has gained a reputation for its intense flavor profile. In 2011, the liquor garnered newfound fame, or perhaps infamy, when a man named Sam Mechling began creating viral social media posts poking fun at its taste. Rather than taking legal action, the owner at the time, Patricia Gabelick, hired Mechling to lead the brand’s marketing efforts, resulting in a significant increase in drink sales.
In 2018, Gabelick expanded Malört’s reach by selling the Carl Jeppson Company to CH Distillery. Despite numerous posts advising against drinking Malört, the liquor continues to attract attention, with social media users sharing humorous anecdotes and opinions about the beverage.
The official Malört website boldly states, “Weeding out the weak since 1933,” encapsulating the spirit of the brand. The Chicago-Style Hot Chocolate, featuring Malört, is set to remain available throughout the playoff season, offering a unique twist on a seasonal favorite.
As Chicago prepares to face Green Bay once again in the upcoming game, the unconventional combination of hot chocolate and Malört continues to captivate audiences and defy expectations.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.