At W1NE LOVE, we’re passionate about wine and firmly believe there’s a wine for every occasion. But even we’ve noticed that when the weather turns chilly, some of our friends gravitate towards the warming embrace of spirits. Inspired by their choices, we couldn’t resist delving into the richness and traditions of spirit drinking during Christmas. As it turns out, the world of spirits—just like wine—pairs beautifully with the festive season, adding warmth and cheer to cosy winter nights.
What Are Spirit Drinks?
Spirit drinks, or distilled beverages, are made by fermenting and distilling natural ingredients like grains, fruits, or sugarcane. From rum and gin to whisky, mezcal, and sake, spirits bring bold flavours, unique histories, and cultural traditions to the table. While wine often steals the spotlight in our celebrations, these drinks have their own way of making the holidays extra special.
Christmas Spirit: Traditions Around the World
In Europe, spirits are steeped in festive traditions. The British love a warming whisky, whether it’s sipped neat or spiced in a hot toddy. Gin, with its botanical notes, becomes the star of Christmas cocktails, often mixed with cranberries or festive syrups. Across Scandinavia, aquavit—a caraway-flavoured spirit—is a holiday staple, best served chilled alongside hearty Christmas feasts.
In North America, rum reigns supreme, especially as the key ingredient in creamy eggnog—a drink synonymous with Christmas. Whisky also features prominently in holiday cocktails, from old-fashioneds to spiked hot chocolates, offering a cosy treat after a day in the snow.
In Asia, sake finds its place during festive meals, especially in Japan, where it’s enjoyed warm and often paired with seasonal dishes like sushi or grilled seafood. Meanwhile, mezcal—known for its smoky complexity—is becoming a trendy choice in global Christmas celebrations, bringing a unique twist to winter gatherings.
Five Festive Spirits to Explore This Christmas
Here’s a closer look at some of the spirits that shine during the holiday season, along with tips on how to enjoy them:
1. Rum
Rum, distilled from sugarcane or molasses, is a winter favourite. Spiced rum, with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, is perfect for the season. Try it in a hot buttered rum—mix rum with butter, brown sugar, and a touch of spice for an indulgent drink. Pair it with gingerbread or mince pies for the ultimate holiday treat.
2. Mezcal
For a smoky twist on Christmas, mezcal is a standout choice. Made from roasted agave hearts, it has a distinctive depth that pairs beautifully with savoury dishes like roasted pork or smoky BBQ meats. Or, mix it into a Christmas margarita with cranberry juice and lime for a refreshing holiday cocktail.
3. Gin
Gin’s versatility makes it a Christmas classic. Add festive flair to your gin and tonic with a sprig of rosemary or a garnish of pomegranate seeds. For something warmer, try a spiced gin punch with citrus and cloves. Gin pairs beautifully with smoked salmon canapés or cheese platters.
4. Whisky
Whisky is synonymous with comfort. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in a festive cocktail like a whisky sour with cranberry juice. It’s a perfect partner for rich, meaty dishes like roast turkey or glazed ham, and it’s also wonderful with dark chocolate desserts.
5. Sake
Sake may not be the first spirit that comes to mind for Christmas, but it’s a surprisingly elegant choice. Enjoy it warm for a cosy winter treat, or serve it chilled to highlight its delicate umami flavours. Pair it with roasted duck or teriyaki-glazed vegetables for a festive feast with a twist.
How to Enjoy Spirits This Festive Season
Spirits are all about adding warmth and joy to your celebrations. Picture this: gathering around the fireplace with a hot toddy in hand, or mixing festive cocktails to impress your guests. When it comes to food pairings, the possibilities are endless. Whisky’s boldness complements rich roasts and creamy chocolates, while gin’s herbaceous notes shine alongside seafood and cheese. Rum loves anything spiced or sweet, and sake brings a sophisticated touch to savoury dishes.
And don’t forget the garnishes! Add a slice of orange, a cinnamon stick, or a handful of cranberries to make your drinks as festive as the season itself.
A Festive Tradition for All
While wine will always have our hearts (it’s in our name, after all!), there’s something undeniably charming about exploring the world of spirits during Christmas. Their warmth, complexity, and festive traditions offer a new way to celebrate the season—and perhaps inspire a new tradition of your own.
Here’s to a festive season filled with joy, good food, and the perfect drink to keep you warm. Cheers!