Being that we're now in the thick of the holiday season means plenty of parties and get-togethers and shopping for friends and family. To help make this season a little brighter (and more bearable for some), here are some 'spirited' gift ideas and festive cocktails to try.
Build your own gift basket with their favorite spirit and accompanying mixers and maybe even some gourmet chocolate or nuts that would pair well with it. Check out these baskets by 1-877-Spirits.com for ideas.
Many spirits companies are now selling gift sets: a bottle of their product accompanying glassware to enjoy it in — like this Crown Royal set — or even a shaker. Though the bottle isn't included, this Maker's Mark decanter and shot glass set would make the perfect present for that bourbon fan in your life. These can easily be found at your local spirits store (i.e.: ABC Liquors, Total Wine, grocery liquor store, etc.) or bought online.
Can't decide which type of a certain liquor brand to buy? Pick out a few smaller bottles or give a gift package that includes a "flight" of smaller bottles of their products — they make great stocking stuffers and come in TSA-friendly sizes. Tequila Avión released their Tasting Flight box which includes a small bottle of their Silver, Reposado and Anejo tequilas for $10, and Johnnie Walker® makes a gift set containing 200mL bottles of their Red, Black, Gold and Blue Labels.
For the hardcore cocktailian in your life, see this article on cocktail bitters from Bon Appetit — a guide on how to use them and which to buy.
Another great addition to a "spirited" gift would be a mixology book of drink recipes or printed cocktail recipes to use the gifted liquor in (like the ones below).
Now, my favorite bit: the cocktails!
This article appears in Nov 24-30, 2011.