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It’s hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner. The approaching holiday season often comes with its fair share of stress, as individuals scramble to find last-minute gifts, plan family gatherings, and deal with the onslaught of holiday expectations. For many, a way to alleviate this tension is through the soothing sounds of classic Christmas music.

Country music has produced some timeless holiday tracks, like Dolly Parton’s "Hard Candy Christmas," Merle Haggard’s poignant "If We Make It Through December," and Tyler Childers’ lesser-known gem “Luke 2:8-10.” Yet, one standout in this genre is Robert Earl Keen’s "Merry Christmas from the Family," which has defined Christmas in Texas since its release on his 1994 album, Gringo Honeymoon.

Keen’s song presents a hilarious and somewhat chaotic portrayal of a dysfunctional family gathering during the holidays. Captured in vivid detail, the lyrics recount the antics of family members sharing awkward moments, including a drunken Christmas party and unexpected guests. It serves as a comedic commentary that many can relate to, echoing the beloved themes found in festive classics like Christmas Vacation.

This cherished track gained even broader recognition when Montgomery Gentry covered it in 2000, introducing it to a wider audience.

Recent fans of Keen’s work can discover a remarkable acoustic rendition by Cody Cannon, the frontman of Whiskey Myers. Released on the band’s YouTube channel, Cannon’s cover showcases his versatility, making it a delightful listen for anyone looking to embrace the holiday spirit through the lens of country music.

For those who appreciate both the original and its cover, this rendition offers a refreshing take on a classic, underscoring the timeless nature of Keen’s storytelling.

Watch Cody Cannon’s cover here.

Tanduay Distillers Inc., a prominent name in the Philippines’ liquor industry, has taken a significant step towards expanding its presence in Europe by entering into a distribution agreement with Bastard Spirits, a Danish boutique distributor. This partnership aims to increase Tanduay’s market share in Denmark by utilizing Bastard Spirits’ extensive customer network which includes specialty wine and spirits shops, online retailers, and various on-trade channels.

As consumer preferences shift, the brand is keen to tap into the rising interest in rum among younger Danish consumers, particularly as gin consumption is reportedly declining. Tanduay’s approach aligns with these trends, making their products particularly appealing to women and younger demographics who are increasingly embracing the rum category.

Bastard Spirits, established in 2021, operates within Denmark’s regulated alcohol market and is focused on premium spirits. Jesper Kjaer, an international sales manager at Bastard Spirits, noted that Tanduay’s offerings stood out for their diversity and pricing. He highlighted the potential of Tanduay’s 10-Year-Old Rum to engage a wide range of consumers, while the Overproof variant is expected to attract seasoned rum enthusiasts.

This strategic move marks another step in Tanduay’s goal to widen its international footprint, responding to growing global interest in rum and diversifying its audience within Europe.

Mai-Kai, the iconic Polynesian dining destination in Oakland Park, has expanded its offerings with the launch of its own rum, named Mai-Kai Old Style Special Rum Number 1. This new spirit can be purchased at the restaurant’s gift shop, bringing a unique twist to their already vibrant experience.

Pia Dahlquist, the restaurant’s public relations director, shares how this venture began after the previous rum they used, Dagger Rum from Jamaica, was discontinued. The Mai-Kai was known for its signature cocktails that utilized this rum, leading to a noticeable shift in flavor when they had to find a replacement. The team embarked on a multi-year quest to create a rum that would closely replicate the taste of its predecessor, and they finally succeeded with the new Mai-Kai Rum.

Available for $75 per liter or $400 for a case of six, the rum is a full-bodied 100 proof that makes for both excellent mixers and enjoyable shots. The tasting notes reveal a complex profile, featuring aromas of banana and toasted oak, with a finish reminiscent of fruit cake and brown butter.

This release follows a significant renovation worth over $20 million, aimed at revitalizing the Mai-Kai experience, complete with a redesigned venue, new stage shows, and updated menus. For more details, customers can contact the Mai-Kai at 954-563-3272 or visit maikairum.com.

For years, efforts to address climate change have largely centered around reducing fossil fuel use. However, as of 2025, innovative strategies that involve unconventional approaches to carbon capture are gaining attention. With global emissions at record levels in 2024 and average temperatures consistently exceeding critical thresholds, a new plan is essential.

Prominent climate scientists are now advocating for adopting carbon capture techniques, believing we will need to eliminate around a trillion tonnes of CO2 by the end of the century. Instead of purely focusing on reducing emissions, it’s become clear that capturing existing greenhouse gases is a crucial part of fighting climate change.

The standard methods of capturing CO2 have often included initiatives like tree planting, which may not capture enough carbon quickly enough for current needs. A 2024 report from Oxford’s Net Zero program has highlighted new methods that involve injecting captured CO2 into geological formations like volcanic rocks.

Here are some unconventional carbon capture ideas that could make a difference:

1. Injecting Volcanic Rocks

The Orca plant in Iceland, the world’s first large-scale facility employing direct air capture (DAC) technology, is actively sucking in CO2 from the atmosphere. When captured, this CO2 is mixed with water before being injected into volcanic rocks deep underground, where it can solidify and remain trapped permanently.

2. Abandoned Salt Mines

Engineers in China are eyeing old salt mines as potential sites for storing CO2 produced by heavy industrial emissions. These caverns, if repurposed correctly, could potentially contain significant amounts of CO2 and mitigate emissions from industries prolific in the region.

3. Whales, Dead or Alive

Whales could play an unexpected role in carbon capture. By storing substantial amounts of carbon over their 100+ year lifespans and contributing to marine ecosystems through their death, which supports deep-sea carbon storage, whales are being studied as a natural solution for capturing CO2.

4. Vodka and Tonic

In a surprising twist, some beverage producers are sourcing CO2 from power plant emissions for their drinks. This approach captures CO2 but raises concerns about its long-term fate, as carbon can quickly return to the atmosphere after consumption.

5. In the Walls

Efforts to incorporate CO2 into concrete production aim to create carbon-negative materials. By modifying how concrete is made, researchers are exploring ways to reduce emissions associated with traditional concrete while potentially utilizing captured CO2.

6. Painting Projects

Recent innovations in paint technology have introduced approaches that utilize microorganisms to absorb CO2 from the air. These "living paints" could potentially help reduce overall emissions if widely adopted in building projects.

These emerging solutions represent a crucial shift in our approach to climate change. As traditional methods have fallen short, incorporating these innovative techniques may be vital for addressing the ongoing crisis.

Hot Buttered Rum is a classic cocktail that brings warmth and comfort during the holiday season. Made with dark rum, hot water, and a spiced butter batter, it’s easy to create and offers a nostalgic touch. Niko Imbert, senior vice president at Bon Vivants in the Bahamas, highlights this drink as a festive way to slow down and savor the holidays, while Aaron Kim from NYC’s 53 calls it the “liquid equivalent of a cozy fireside blanket.”

The rum you choose plays a crucial role in the drink’s flavor profile. Bartenders from across the country shared their top picks for the best rums to enhance this holiday delight.

Rum Selections for Hot Buttered Rum

1. Planteray Cut & Dry Coconut Rum

   • Selected by Aaron Kim, this rum combines the depth of dark aged rum with a subtle coconut flavor, enhancing the cocktail’s richness.

2. Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaican Rum

   • Alec Gropman favors this for its high proof and funky flavor, noting that it cuts through butter and spices for balance.

3. Coconut Cartel Rum

   • Niko Imbert prefers this for its coconut-forward profile, which adds a tropical touch to the traditional drink.

4. Chairman’s Reserve Original Rum

   • Kim recommends this Saint Lucia rum for its complex flavors of caramelized fruit and vanilla, perfect for a sophisticated Hot Buttered Rum.

5. Diplomático Reserva

   • Erin Green keeps this aged rum on hand for its harmonious notes of orange peel and toffee, which work well with the drink’s rich ingredients.

6. Ten to One Dark Rum

   • Luis Hernandez describes this Jamaican pot still rum as ideal, especially when paired with brown butter for added depth.

7. Planteray’s 20th Anniversary XO Rum

   • Imbert also enjoys this rum for the rich blend of flavors it contributes to the cocktail.

8. Bacardi Ocho

   • Hemant Pathak opts for this aged rum due to its mellow flavor, ensuring the cocktail maintains balance and doesn’t become too sweet.

9. Ron Zacapa 23 Centenario Rum

   • Aliz Meszesi favors rich, aged dark rums like Zacapa, which contribute warm, dessert-like notes to the drink.

Each of these rums brings a unique element, making Hot Buttered Rum a versatile cocktail for holiday gatherings. Whether entertaining family or friends, selecting the right rum can elevate this classic drink, providing warmth and celebration with every sip.

My Rum Rum Rudolph is an exciting twist on the classic Rum & Coke that brings festive flavor to your drink.

Ingredients

• 1 rosemary sprig
• 1 maraschino cherry
• Ice
• 4 oz. Coca-Cola
• 2 oz. white or dark rum
• 1 1/2 oz. tart cherry juice

Directions

1. Cut the rosemary sprig into two 2-inch pieces, stripping the leaves from the bottom half. Poke two holes in the maraschino cherry using a toothpick, then insert the rosemary sprigs into each hole. Finally, skew the toothpick through the cherry to secure it while avoiding the pit.

2. Fill a Collins glass with ice and add Coca-Cola, rum, and tart cherry juice. Stir gently to combine, then garnish with the prepared cherry.

This refreshing drink is a perfect holiday treat that is easy to make and sure to impress your guests. Enjoy!

Still Austin Whiskey Co. has unveiled its latest creation, the Tanager Cigar Blend Bourbon Whiskey, designed for those who appreciate the rich pairing of bourbon with cigars. This limited-edition whiskey boasts a strength of 107.5 proof and is crafted from a unique blend of blue, red, and white corn.

With a maturation period of at least six years in charred American oak barrels, this bourbon stands out due to its meticulous selection of ingredients, overseen by Master Blender Nancy Fraley and Master Distiller John Schrepel. Unlike many cigar blends that are finished in distinct barrels such as cognac or sherry, the Tanager Cigar Blend emphasizes the quality of its whiskey and the local Texas terroir.

The tasting experience begins with an inviting nose filled with notes of manuka honey, toasted coconut, marzipan, herbal tea, and cherries. On the palate, drinkers will encounter flavors of dried cherries, butterscotch, and candied grapefruit, rounded off with spice and herbal accents in the finish.

Released on December 6, 2025, the Tanager Cigar Blend Bourbon Whiskey is priced at $150 for a 750ml bottle. It’s available for purchase directly from Still Austin’s distillery and select retailers across Texas. This whiskey is expected to be a delightful addition to holiday gatherings for those who enjoy fine spirits.

Nothing embodies the holiday spirit like eggnog, a rich, creamy cocktail infused with spices and often elevated with a splash of alcohol. For many, homemade eggnog surpasses store-bought varieties, but selecting the right alcohol can be daunting. Traditionally, whiskey, rum, brandy, and Cognac are popular choices, but bartenders suggest that a combination of spirits can lead to a more complex and flavorful drink.

Liz Kelley, the lead bartender at New Orleans’ Cure, creates an eggnog with bourbon and chicory liqueur. The bourbon adds depth while the chicory provides a unique twist. She emphasizes the importance of balancing flavors in eggnog and recommends experimenting with different spirit blends.

For those looking to craft the perfect eggnog this Christmas, here are eight bartender-recommended spirits:

1. Teeling Small Batch Irish Whiskey
   This whiskey is versatile and combines ages in ex-bourbon barrels and rum casks, producing notes of caramel and toffee that complement eggnog beautifully.

2. Boann Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey Marsala Cask
   Aged in bourbon barrels and finished in Marsala casks, this whiskey introduces a blend of honey, vanilla, and subtle spice, making it ideal for rich eggnog.

3. Santa Teresa 1796 Rum
   Known for its depth, this rum is triple-aged, offering elegance and subtle flavors of cacao and spices that balance out the creaminess of eggnog.

4. Reposado Tequila
   While often overlooked, reposado tequila brings warm notes of vanilla and caramel, elevating the traditional eggnog flavor profile.

5. Gonzalez Byass Sherry Vermouth
   Adding sherry vermouth introduces a beautiful texture and spice, enhancing the flavors of whichever spirits are combined with it.

6. Macallan 12-Year Single Malt Scotch
   This Scotch has complex flavors of cinnamon and gingersnap, adding a malt backbone and rich taste to your eggnog.

7. Pierre Ferrand 1840 Cognac
   This cognac enhances eggnog with its fruity, velvety qualities, bringing richness and brightness to the mix.

8. Valdespino Tio Diego Amontillado Sherry
   Adding this sherry provides nutty undertones and complements the spices typically found in eggnog, contributing to a well-rounded flavor experience.

With these expert suggestions, you can switch up your eggnog game this holiday season and impress your guests with a personalized twist on the classic drink.

Eggnog, a holiday classic that graces store shelves for just a brief season each year, is making its much-anticipated return. Its basic recipe has endured since medieval Europe, typically comprising beaten eggs mixed with sugar, milk or cream, and a spirited kick from elements like rum, bourbon, or Scotch, often garnished with cinnamon and nutmeg. Variations of eggnog can be found globally, with distinct takes from cultures such as Peru and Mexico.

Sales of eggnog have exhibited significant fluctuations over the years, peaking in 2016 and facing downturns by 2022. However, it generally remains a stable product in the market, with U.S. sales reaching 152 million pounds in 2024, an increase from the previous year, according to the USDA.

For those eager to enjoy this timeless beverage, here are eight delightful eggnog recipes to try this holiday season.

Aberfeldy’s Eggnog

This Scotch-infused eggnog highlights honey, spice, and fruit flavors.

Ingredients (Serves about 6)

• 1 cup Aberfeldy 12
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• 1¼ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1 tsp vanilla or a strip of orange zest

Whisk together the eggs and sugar thoroughly. Heat the milk, cream, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon until steaming, then gradually whisk it into the egg mixture to temper. Return to the pan and cook on low until thickened (around 170°F). Cool before stirring in Aberfeldy 12 and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve chilled with fresh nutmeg on top.

Kraken Eggnog

For a thrilling take, this recipe combines eggnog with The Kraken Black Spiced Rum.

Ingredients:

• 1 part The Kraken Black Spiced Rum
• 4 parts Eggnog
• Garnishes: Grated Cinnamon, Grated Nutmeg

Combine in an eggnog or highball glass and stir, finishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Basil Hayden Eggnog

This recipe offers a rich and decadent spin this holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 1 x 750ml Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• 1 quart milk
• 1 quart heavy cream
• 2 dozen eggs
• 1½ cups sugar
• Nutmeg

Separate the eggs and beat yolks until creamy. Mix in sugar, then whip the whites until stiff peaks form, adding extra sugar if desired. Combine yolks with bourbon, fold in the whites, and then incorporate whipped cream and milk. Garnish with nutmeg.

Second Sip Eggnog

This lighter version uses low-proof London dry gin.

Ingredients:

• 160 grams egg yolks
• 5 grams grated cinnamon
• 1 whole nutmeg, grated
• 100 grams sugar
• 600 ml heavy cream
• 1200 ml milk
• 240 grams egg whites
• 200 grams sugar
• 1 liter Second Sip Gin
• 80 ml Frangelico

Whip yolks with spices and sugar. Whip the cream to soft peaks and make a meringue with the egg whites and sugar. Combine everything and whisk lightly with the milk mixture.

Templeton Rye Nog

Enjoy this delightful blend of rye whiskey, rum, and brandy.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup Templeton Rye
• 3 oz Zaya Rum
• 3 oz Brandy
• 1 qt Eggnog

Mix all ingredients in a punch bowl, serving with grated nutmeg on top.

La Mar’s Peruvian Eggnog

This modern Peruvian twist adds vibrant floral notes.

Eggnog Ingredients:

• 6 large egg yolks
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups milk
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon for topping

Whisk yolks and sugar until creamy. Heat cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt until simmering, then temper the egg mixture. Whisk constantly until thickened, then stir in vanilla and chill.

Peruvian Eggnog Ingredients:

• 2 oz eggnog base
• 1.5 oz Vinas de Oro Pisco Brandy Reserve
• 0.75 oz Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Poblano Liqueur
• 0.5 oz Demerara Syrup

Shake all ingredients with ice and serve in a coupe garnished with cinnamon and a chili pepper.

Polar Expresso

Transform the classic espresso martini with a festive twist.

Ingredients:

• Polar Expresso Infusion Kit
• Eggnog
• Whiskey, Bourbon, or Vodka
• Heavy Whipping Cream
• Baileys or RumChata

Infuse the spirit in the Polar Expresso kit for up to three days. Shake with eggnog and serve, garnished with a cinnamon stick.

Coquito

This Puerto Rican coconut eggnog brings tropical vibes to the table.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey
• 3 oz Coconut Cream
• ½ oz Rich Brown Sugar Simple Syrup
• 1 dash Vanilla Extract

Mix ingredients in a glass with ice, strain into a coupe, and garnish with grapefruit peel.

These varied recipes offer different flavors and styles to enjoy this beloved holiday drink, ensuring there’s something for everyone to savor throughout the festive season.

Vodka is among the most widely consumed spirits globally, yet its appreciation seems muted, particularly in the U.S. In the quest to identify the best vodkas, individuals often struggle to find resources or specialty bars dedicated solely to this spirit. Historically, the legal definition of vodka created a view of it lacking distinctive character, aroma, taste, or color. However, a recent tasting of 15 different vodkas revealed a surprising variety of options, including a briny martini-friendly vodka, a rich sweet option, and an all-purpose creamy vodka that complements any home bar.

The Best Vodkas

Kirkland Signature American Vodka

Kirkland Signature American Vodka emerged as the top pick. Priced at around $15 from Total Wine & More, testers found it to be the cleanest, creamiest, and most versatile vodka. With soft citrus and rose aromas, it’s enjoyable on its own or in various cocktails. The only downside is its size, as it comes in a large 1.75-liter bottle.

• Base Ingredient: Corn
• Best For: All cocktails
• Made In: USA

Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka

For those unable to acquire Kirkland vodka, Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka is a solid alternative at approximately $11. Historically significant, Smirnoff became the first vodka distillery in the U.S. and ultimately the world’s best-selling vodka. Its crisp and clean profile makes it suitable for various cocktails, from Bloody Marys to martinis.

• Base Ingredient: Grain
• Best For: Cocktails requiring a versatile vodka
• Made In: USA

Pinnacle Vodka

For a unique option, Pinnacle Vodka is noted for its savory and salty profile, priced around $15. Its briny flavor makes it particularly suitable for savory cocktails, like martinis and Bloody Marys.

• Base Ingredient: Grain
• Best For: Savory cocktails
• Made In: France (bottled in the USA)

Stolichnaya Vodka

At $21, Stolichnaya Vodka is favored for those who prefer a mild taste that blends well in cocktails. With light notes of aloe and lime, this vodka is ideal for mixed drinks where one prefers to mask the alcohol flavor.

• Base Ingredient: Grain
• Best For: Drinks where one prefers a light presence of alcohol
• Made In: Latvia

Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Tito’s Handmade Vodka stands out for its richer, sweeter profile, available at approximately $20. Its notes of butterscotch and honey allow it to shine in citrusy or savory cocktails.

• Base Ingredient: Corn
• Best For: Citrus or savory cocktails
• Made In: USA

The Competition

Vodkas such as Svedka and Hangar 1 were considered but didn’t match the flavor quality of the selected picks. Brands like Absolut and Grey Goose were dismissed due to harsh alcohol burn and thinning characteristics when diluted.

Why You Should Trust Us

The guide was informed by extensive research and interviews with food scientists and industry experts. The testing involved multiple rounds of tastings across diverse cocktail recipes to ensure a well-rounded understanding of each vodka’s flavor profile and versatility.

Conclusion

Vodka may often be overlooked compared to spirits like whiskey or gin, but the right vodka can elevate any cocktail experience.Preference can vary widely based on personal taste, but the options outlined here provide a excellent basis for exploring the world of vodka and finding what suits your palate best.