Table setting adorned for the holidays, setting the stage for a romantic dinner.

Thanksgiving goes beyond being just a celebration for wine and cocktails. It serves as the perfect backdrop to explore various whiskeys, harmonizing their distinct flavors with each traditional dish presented on the table. Whether entertaining friends, family, or welcoming new faces, aligning whiskey with each course adds a layer of warmth and richness to the dining experience. Here’s a guide on selecting the ideal whiskey for your Thanksgiving feast.

Entirely Homemade Thanksgiving Turkey Accompanied by All the Sides

The centerpiece of the meal certainly calls for something as rich and flavorful as it is, with bourbon standing out as an exceptional choice. The sweet undertones of caramel, vanilla, and oak found in bourbon pair beautifully with the roasted essence of turkey, whether it’s seasoned to perfection or enhanced with a glaze.

Homemade Thanksgiving Pork Sage Stuffing in a Casserole Dish

Stuffing comes in a variety of flavors, ranging from sage and thyme to hearty sausage or even sweet additions like apples and cranberries. The spiciness of rye whiskey pairs beautifully with these rich, earthy flavors, creating a delightful contrast with the herb-infused bread mixture.

A bowl of delectable mashed potatoes topped with melted butter.

The creamy and buttery texture of mashed potatoes smothered in gravy calls for a drink that complements without overpowering it. A lightly peated Scotch serves as the perfect match, introducing a touch of earthiness and smoke that enhances the luxurious flavors of the potatoes and gravy.

Homemade Red Cranberry Sauce for the Holidays

The tart and fruity brightness of cranberry sauce harmonizes beautifully with a sweeter whiskey that complements its zest. A smooth bourbon or Tennessee whiskey can add a honeyed sweetness that enhances the sauce’s tangy flavor.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans and Marshmallows

The sweetness of a wheated bourbon perfectly aligns with the comforting flavors of sweet potato casserole, particularly when marshmallows are included. Wheated bourbons offer a gentler, slightly sweeter profile that pairs wonderfully with this side dish.

Delicious Homemade Pumpkin Pie Ready for Thanksgiving

The delightful combination of nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove in pumpkin pie pairs wonderfully with whiskey that has similar spicy notes. Opting for a spiced or flavored whiskey can beautifully highlight the pie’s rich taste without overshadowing it.

When considering whiskey to accompany Thanksgiving dishes, focus on achieving a harmonious balance rather than intense flavors. Sipping a small amount with each bite can enhance the flavors of both the food and the whiskey, resulting in a memorable feast for everyone gathered around the table.

While it might be tempting to pour larger servings (after all, it’s a festive occasion) — choosing smaller portions allows for a wider selection to savor with your meal.

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As we near election night, I can’t help but recall a memorable moment from the film Airplane!, featuring Lloyd Bridges as a beleaguered air traffic controller who exclaims, “Looks like I picked the wrong week to quit sniffing glue.”

Once the polls close, there’s little that any of us can do—at least those of us who respect the law—except to offer a prayer and ponder what we’ll have for dinner. While no individual may have the influence to ensure that we wake up to a democracy come Wednesday, we certainly wield almost dictatorial control over our election night feasts.

Unlike the Super Bowl, which, in our household, is always celebrated with hot dogs heaped with melted cheese and onions, there are no established rules about the food that fuels us through election night.

One thing I know for sure, though: I won’t repeat the blunder of Steve McCroskey, Lloyd Bridges’s character in Airplane!, who lamented just before his glue comment, “Looks like I picked the wrong week to give up drinking.”

My friend Howard perfectly expressed what many of us were feeling when he posted in our group chat regarding our dining plans for election night, saying, “We’re mainly focused on the drinks for now. Definitely vodka with lemon and as an alternative we’re thinking arsenic.”

I have a strong hunch that as the evening unfolds and the results roll in, I might need to switch to straight shots. Although I usually prefer brown spirits during the fall months, the unusual warmth has me considering sticking with vodka like Howard. Nevertheless, I recognize the importance of pacing myself, so I’ll likely begin my evening with whatever drink I choose served on the rocks.

However, the food menu presents a bit of a challenge. While I take great pride in my patriotism, I don’t feel compelled to serve dishes in red, white, and blue themes. My brother Peter is preparing chateaubriand—he hadn’t yet decided if it would be sirloin or filet the last time we spoke—along with béarnaise sauce. Unfortunately, he’ll be watching the results from his home in Wyoming, which offers limited takeout options, so I won’t question his culinary choices.

To me, chateaubriand feels like a bit too much. It’s also quite expensive. I had thought about simply grilling a steak. But the key to successful grilling is to remember that you’re cooking; otherwise, you could find your dinner charred to a crisp. When the polls close in Florida and Georgia at 7 p.m., followed by North Carolina at 7:30, my civic duties will undoubtedly have me glued to my seat in front of the TV, while I use my computer to check the results for the House and Senate races.

I won’t be able to focus on flipping a steak if I’m caught up in the ups and downs of Kamala Harris’s election results. My brother James, who lives in New York City and has access to endless takeout options, has the culinary enthusiasm of a young child — even to this day, he flat out refuses to try fish due to its smell and only occasionally eats vegetables. He’s decided on Indian cuisine for the evening.

“I think I’ll order a seekh kebab from the Indian spot just down the street,” he texted me. “And if the mood strikes me, I might enjoy a cigar while tuning into CNN and NY1.”

The thought of having a cigar hadn’t crossed my mind before, and I’m not typically a cigar smoker, but if it seems like Kamala Harris is headed toward an impressive victory, I’ll certainly entertain all sorts of creative ways to celebrate.

To clarify, I was already leaning toward Indian food prior to my younger brother suggesting it. The more I mull it over, the more appealing it becomes. Hudson Curry House is a reliable Indian restaurant in Hudson, NY, where I’ve dined before and likely will again on election night. Plus, the fact that it requires a drive adds another benefit. The trip will serve as a welcome distraction as night falls and help channel some of that nervous energy I’m sure to have.

Chicken korma, a delectable dish featuring chicken in a rich almond cream sauce, is my favorite comfort food at Hudson Curry House. However, I’m considering pairing it with a variety of appetizers to help balance the large quantity of drinks that may be consumed as the evening progresses.

Whether he wins or loses, it’s likely that Donald Trump will announce his victory at some point that night, assuming he hasn’t already claimed it. If he has, I might find myself tucked in bed with the blankets pulled up, likely indulging in a sedative or two.

But let’s not focus on the worst possible outcomes. Throughout my ever-expanding life, I’ve discovered that no matter the circumstances, dessert tends to make everything better.

My brother Peter has been trying his hand at creating a mocha roll, but that’s a bit too ambitious for my taste. Fortunately, I have a collection of sweets stashed in my freezer — cakes and chocolates freeze wonderfully — along with a fresh box of Mallomars in the pantry. Regardless of what political system Americans choose, life is undeniably sweet when you’re enjoying a marshmallow and graham cracker cookie enrobed in rich dark chocolate.

Ralph Gardner, Jr. is a journalist balancing his time between New York City and Columbia County. You can discover more of his writing by visiting his Substack.

The opinions shared by commentators are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of this station or its management.

About this rating

Big Bertha, a cow belonging to Jerome O’Leary from Sneem, County Kerry, Ireland, notably lived for 48 years and gave birth to 39 calves, earning her two Guinness World Records. It’s reported that Big Bertha played a role in raising considerable funds for cancer research by participating in public events and charity drives. However, …

… we could not independently confirm the exact amount that Bertha helped raise, nor could we authenticate the claim that the cow drank whiskey, as this was based solely on O’Leary’s statement without any corroborating sources.

For many years, a tale circulated on social media about a cow named Big Bertha who supposedly drank whiskey, lived to 48 years of age, gave birth to 39 calves, set two Guinness World Records, and raised $75,000 for cancer research.

(Instagram user @how.vintage)

The story circulated widely across various social media channels, including 9GAG, TikTok, Instagram, Threads, iFunny, and Facebook. One user humorously noted, “When the cow has more achievements than me,” reflecting a mix of admiration and incredulity.

Additionally, Big Bertha has been mentioned in several publications, which can be found in a Google Books search.

To summarize, Big Bertha, a bovine from Sneem, County Kerry, Ireland, was bought as a calf by local farmer Jerome O’Leary. She gained fame by setting two Guinness World Records for her longevity—living to the age of 48—and for giving birth to 39 calves, making her the oldest and most prolific cow recorded. However, claims about her alleged consumption of whiskey remain unresolved, relying solely on the owner’s anecdotes. Furthermore, we couldn’t independently confirm the assertion that Big Bertha helped raise $75,000 for cancer research. Consequently, we’ve categorized this narrative as a blend of verified and undetermined claims.

The initial claim circulating in viral posts was that Big Bertha had a fondness for whiskey. A post on Threads noted, “Interestingly, she was known to drink whiskey, often used to celebrate her birthday and other occasions.”

An article from 2022 published by The Irish Post reported that Big Bertha’s owner indicated “she would need a shot of whiskey to steady her nerves before these auspicious public appearances.” Historian Turtle Bunbury also shared that O’Leary once mentioned he would give her “a drop of poitín [aka ‘Irish moonshine’] or whiskey to steel her nerves against the maddening crowds.”

Unfortunately, we only have O’Leary’s testimony regarding this. Every report we found about Bertha’s supposed whiskey-drinking habits was solely based on O’Leary’s vivid anecdotes. There was no supporting evidence or independent sources who claimed to have seen it.

Additionally, social media posts asserted that Big Bertha lived to the age of 48 and had produced 39 calves, thereby breaking two Guinness World Records. One post on Threads declared, “She indeed set two Guinness World Records: one for being the oldest cow ever recorded and another for producing 39 calves.” This assertion was also mentioned in a 2010 article in The Guardian and appeared on an X account for Kerry Library.

According to Guinness World Records, the oldest recorded age for a cow was 48 years and 9 months for Big Bertha (1944–1993), a Dremon owned by Jerome O’Leary in Blackwatersbridge, Co. Kerry, Republic of Ireland. Furthermore, Big Bertha was recognized as the most prolific cow, having produced 39 calves by 1993. In 1986, RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster, reported on her 39th pregnancy.

Moreover, various social media posts and articles mentioned that Big Bertha “raised $75,000 for cancer research.” For example, the Ballyvolane House Spirits Company noted that the cow was “involved in raising funds for local cancer relief charities,” and historian Turtle Bunbury reported that her owner, O’Leary, emphasized “her remarkable role as a fundraiser.”

Indeed, Big Bertha contributed significantly to fundraising for cancer research through her appearances and charity events. However, the precise amount she raised remains unclear.

A 1993 Deseret News article claimed that her presence at cattle shows helped generate over “$75,000 for cancer research and other charitable efforts.” This amount may be linked to similar figures in pounds (£50,000 or £60,000), considering Ireland does not operate in U.S. dollars. A 2000 Irish Independent article reported that O’Leary organized Big Bertha’s events, raising upwards of £60,000 for cancer treatment, while a 2014 Farmers Journal article detailed O’Leary’s collaboration with Donie Riney and Pat O’Connell to “raise more than £50,000 for Aid Cancer Treatment (ACT) through Bertha’s public appearances.”

Bunbury has confirmed in an email that Big Bertha “was certainly engaged in fundraising for the Pat O’Connell Cancer Fund.” He referenced a 1994 article from The Scotsman, noting that it reported a total of £50,000 raised. Additionally, he pointed to a 2000 article in The Kerryman, which indicated a sum of £60,000.

Kerry County Council has informed us that they do not have any information regarding this issue.

We have also contacted Kerry Archaeological and Historical Society and Kerry Library for their input and will provide an update to this article should we receive any responses.

Whether you are hosting friends or savoring a peaceful night in, the right tools and equipment can greatly enhance the experience.

As the fascination with whiskey grows among both enthusiasts and casual drinkers, upgrading your home bar cart becomes a sensible decision. A well-equipped bar should not only feature fine spirits but also the necessary accessories to enrich the whiskey drinking experience.

With the expanding array of whiskey styles and cocktail possibilities, possessing specialized glassware, tools, and presentation items is vital for amplifying flavor profiles and achieving a polished setup. This holiday season presents a variety of accessories aimed at helping aficionados refine their collections, transforming whiskey appreciation into both an art and a science.

Here are ten whiskey accessories that make great gifts for anyone wanting to elevate their whiskey tasting experience.

Ideal for capturing flavor profiles and personal preferences, the World Whiskey Society Tasting Journal is made from real leather and is designed to document whiskey moments. It allows aficionados to jot down detailed observations for each tasting, serving as a helpful tool for those passionate about whiskey. With its expandable structure, users can easily add more pages as their collection expands. Moreover, all proceeds from this journal support charitable initiatives, providing a way to give back.

Offering a reusable alternative to traditional ice, these solid granite whiskey stones by R.O.C.K.S. are designed to chill drinks effectively without dilution. Each set contains six unique stones, each exhibiting distinct colors and textures. The artisanal craftsmanship of these stones presents a practical solution for those who savor their whiskey cold but not diluted. This method, steeped in 19th-century Scottish tradition, allows whiskey lovers to enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and aromas crafted by master distillers.

For efficiently stirring whiskey cocktails, the Urban Bar’s Classic Copper Bar Spoon features a long handle. Constructed from Japanese steel and adorned with polished copper plating, this spoon is not only durable but adds a touch of elegance to any bar setup. Showcasing a classic European design, it includes a twisted stem for better stirring and an end disc for bruising fruits and gently muddling ingredients. The refined copper finish lends a hint of luxury, while its functional design proves advantageous for crafting cocktails.

Perfect for crafting whiskey cocktails like Old Fashioneds, which require muddling. Inspired by a well-loved drinking area in Seattle, the “Belltown” walnut cocktail muddler from Brothers Muddlers was created to solve typical problems associated with common muddlers. Many products on the market fall short in various ways: they may be overly short, have peeling lacquer, become slippery when wet, or be too costly for everyday use. The Belltown Muddler stands out with its practical 11.5-inch extra-long design, ensuring that knuckles stay clear of the tin, along with a palm stop for added protection. Its tapered handle is crafted to lessen fatigue, while the bell-shaped base helps prevent tipping. The flat end with a rounded edge is perfect for working with delicate herbs. Furthermore, it is treated with food-safe oil to avoid rot.

This tool guarantees accurate measuring for cocktail concoctions. Renowned for kitchen gadgets, Oxo also offers a variety of barware accessories. The OXO Angled Jigger incorporates a patented angled surface that allows users to view measurement readings from above, removing the need to lift the jigger to eye level or bend down to see the side markings. It comes with handy markings for both ounces and tablespoons, and the etched measurements are designed for durability, ensuring they will not fade over time.

This kit is intended for making personalized whiskey blends at home. The Whiskey Infusion Kit by Aged & Charred features a 750-milliliter vessel, a detachable base with an infusion filter, and six infusion flavors, all elegantly packaged in a gift box. This kit permits users to develop their own whiskey taste in just 24 to 48 hours. The straightforward process involves filling the infusion basket with one of the supplied ingredients—dried orange peel, cinnamon, oak wood chips, cherry wood chips, pecan wood chips, or peach wood chips—pouring whiskey or bourbon into the vessel, and allowing it to rest for between 24 hours and several days. Users can also explore creating unique infusion flavors. The wood chips included help accelerate the aging process, elevating a standard bottle of whiskey or bourbon to a premium-quality drink.

This option allows for aging whiskey at home, providing a way to explore various flavors. Available in sizes ranging from one to 20 liters, the Red Head Whiskey Liquor Flavoring Kit presents a straightforward method to create whiskey-flavored liquor in the comfort of home. By blending with a neutral-flavored liquor base, individuals can indulge in a range of whiskey flavors. Most components are crafted from natural extracts and oils, and the kit itself is alcohol-free. This kit invites customization, permitting users to select their desired whiskey flavor profile.

This collection includes the essentials for creating whiskey-based cocktails. While it may appear to be meant for coffee or hot tea, the Brumate Shaker Pint is actually designed for mixing chilled cocktails. This 20-ounce insulated cocktail shaker ensures that drinks stay cool, featuring a sweat-proof design to eliminate condensation. It serves a dual function, operating as both a cocktail shaker and a pint glass, which facilitates easy beverage mixing without the risk of spills. The shaker is compatible with the BevLock lid, ensuring that it remains leakproof, and its non-slip base provides stability when in use. Furthermore, it can also be used as a tumbler, making it a versatile addition to any home bar.

A timeless element for any bar, enhancing both storage and display. Riedel, renowned for its wine-centric glassware, also offers whiskey decanters. The Margaux decanter, part of Riedel’s M Series, emphasizes simplicity and utility. Designed by Maximilian J. Riedel in 2017, this decanter reimagines traditional cognac and whiskey bottle forms, providing a user-friendly choice without unnecessary complexity.

Tailored specifically to elevate the whiskey tasting experience, these glasses cater to aficionados. The AWAZ Premium Whiskey Glasses are made from lead-free, crystal-clear glass, adorned with 24-karat gold rims and featuring dishwasher-safe engraving that won’t fade. Each set is beautifully packaged in a premium box, making it an ideal gift. The company, AWAZ, is women-owned and operated, donating 1% of its proceeds to nonprofit organizations that support women’s economic empowerment.

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts.

Our community aims to connect individuals through open and meaningful discussions. We encourage our readers to voice their opinions and share ideas and information in a welcoming environment.

To facilitate this, we ask you to adhere to the posting guidelines outlined in our site’s Terms of Service. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the essential rules. In short, please maintain a respectful tone.

Your contribution may be denied if it is found to include:

User accounts may be suspended if we observe or suspect that users are partaking in:

Wondering how you can become a power user?

We appreciate you taking the time to review our community guidelines. For an extensive overview of our posting rules, please refer to the complete list located in our site’s Terms of Service.