What is the appropriate way to celebrate the end of one of the most challenging years in modern history? With a cocktail, of course! With months of lonely quarantine behind us, and the shiny prospect of a promising New Year ahead, let’s let down our hair, kick off our shoes, and celebrate like there’s no tomorrow! While moderation is expected and encouraged, this may be the year to be the tiniest bit frivolous. Let the good times roll!
So, what to drink? What to drink, indeed! Nothing screams sophistication and effortless hospitality more than a perfectly blended cocktail. What better antidote to a woeful Old Year than a delicious quaff to raise your spirits and induce a sense of wellbeing! Don’t get bogged down in complicated recipes and dizzying descriptions – stick to the basics. Start with good booze and you’ll make a good drink. Or two. Or more! Why not? Go top shelf or go home!
But where to begin? So much booze, so little time! Pick a favorite and run with it! Will it be vodka or gin? Maybe rum, tequila, or bourbon? As more Stay-At-Home sanctions are put into place, it may be wise to grab a few good bottles to last you and your loved ones till the dropping of the ball in Times Square. Hurry now! The clock is ticking.
When buying liquor, there are three things to consider – quality, quality, and quality! Far too often, we make our decision based entirely on cost. It’s a pity we can’t taste a sip of each bottle before making our purchase. You would be amazed at the drastic variances in flavor even in something as neutral as vodka. Adding a mere ten dollars to your purchase can sometimes take you from lighter fluid to luxury. It’s the difference between a massive hangover and a bright morning after. Don’t start the New Year droopy. Drink the good stuff and never look back!
Vodka is the backbone of the spirits industry and is easily the most popular spirit in the world. Vodka can be distilled from almost any base material — barley, rye, wheat, corn, potatoes, grapes, and even beets.
Favorites include the creamy Chopin Vodka and crisp Grey Goose.
Gin is a bright, sassy vodka flavored with botanicals such as spicy juniper berries, and licorice to seduce your taste buds. The likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald threw back gin martinis with aplomb and ignited his creative muse. Gin is delicious and positively historic. Try Hendricks or The Botanist!
Most of the world’s rum is distilled from molasses which is aged and blended. Master blenders create the signature flavor. If you’ve never tried a sipping rum, now is your chance! Premium quality is found with brands like Mount Gay and Ron Zacapa.
The best tequilas are made from 100% Blue Weber agave, a plant native to our southern neighbor, Mexico. Tequila styles are divided into blanco, reposado, anejo, and extra anejo. Indulge in your favorite for a taste of old Mexico. Top brands include Don Julio and Patron.
Bourbon is an American whiskey with a rich, amber color and enticing characteristic flavors of smoke, sweet maple, caramel, and oak. Bourbon can be served neat, on the rocks, or in a multitude of delicious cocktails. Popular producers include Willett and Maker’s Mark.
As you navigate this last month of 2020, don’t forget to grab a few bottles of good quality spirits from your friendly local wine and spirits shops. While away a chilly evening with cocktails, surrounded by adoring family and friends. Have a safe and joyous holiday season!
Cheers!
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