Top 4 Whiskey Advent Calendars to Gift This Holiday Season
For whiskey enthusiasts, December is a special month filled with delightful tasting experiences, thanks to advent calendars that feature curated selections of whiskeys from around the world. These calendars offer not just a drink each day but an opportunity to explore various flavors and styles, making them a perfect gift for both seasoned collectors and casual sippers.
Top Whiskey Advent Calendars for 2025
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Flaviar 2025 Whiskey Advent Calendar – $270
- This calendar, named FlaviAIR, takes inspiration from the golden age of travel. It includes 24 bottles of 50ml whiskeys, sourced from seven countries, including the U.S., Japan, and Scotland. With some bottles valued at around $200 when purchased in full size, this is an excellent chance to try high-end spirits. The set also features custom Glencairn glasses, a Tasting Passport with guided content, and a 12-month Flaviar Black Membership. Buy here.
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World Whiskey Society Best Holiday Wishes – $69.99
- This is a festive and affordable advent calendar featuring 12 whiskey-filled ornaments. These are not only perfect for sampling but also double as Christmas tree decorations. This playful take makes it one of the most budget-friendly options for whiskey lovers during the holiday season. Purchase here.
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Seelbach’s Advent Calendar 2025 – $279.99
- For fans of American craft whiskeys, this calendar showcases 24 different whiskies from 21 brands across nine states. It includes everything from barrel-proof bourbons to cask-finished ryes, focusing on unique and small distillery offerings. Find out more here.
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Whisky Tour of the World Edition II – £199.95 ($262)
- This luxurious calendar offers 24 premium whiskey samples packed in a handmade wooden bookcase. Gifted with two whiskey glasses and an informative book featuring distillery details and tasting notes, it’s perfect for collectors and anyone who enjoys a sophisticated presentation. Check it out here.
With these options, whiskey lovers can count down to the holidays with exciting new tastes and experiences, making their December celebration even more special.
Last-Minute Thanksgiving Drinks to Impress Your Guests
If you’ve found yourself at a family or friend’s house for Thanksgiving without any pre-planned adult beverages, don’t panic. There might be a liquor cabinet nearby, which can save the day. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up delicious drinks that will make the family conversations flow more smoothly.
You can rely on an old cocktail-making adage: “one of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, and four of weak.” Here’s how to interpret that:
- One: Citrus juice (like lime or lemon)
- Two: Sweetener (like simple syrup)
- Three: The spirit of your choice
- Four: A diluter such as soda water (optional)
For example, a simple drink can be made with:
- ½ ounce lime juice (one)
- 1 ounce simple syrup (two)
- 1½ ounces spirit (three)
- 2 ounces soda water (four)
Feel free to tweak these proportions based on your preference for tartness or sweetness. Here’s a selection of classic cocktails you can prepare quickly:
Daisy
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka, gin, tequila, or light rum
- 1 ounce fresh-squeezed citrus juice
- ½ ounce fruit syrup
- Garnish with a lemon, lime, orange, or cherry
Directions: Mix all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake, strain, and serve over ice with garnish.
Sour
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces whiskey, Scotch, aged rum, or gin
- 2 ounces fresh-squeezed lemon or lime juice
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- ½ ounce aquafaba or egg white
- Garnish with citrus
Directions: Shake the first four ingredients until foamy, strain over ice, and garnish.
Smash
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka, gin, rum, or whiskey
- 1 ounce fresh juice
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- Herbs like mint or basil
- Sparkling water
Directions: Shake first three ingredients with ice, add herbs and gently shake again. Serve with soda water and garnish with herbs.
Classic Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces brandy, rum, tequila, whiskey, Scotch, or gin
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- 3 dashes of bitters
Directions: Combine in a mixing glass with ice, shake, and strain over ice in a rocks glass.
With these recipes, you can mix up some fantastic drinks even at the last minute! The key is to enjoy the process and adjust according to taste. Cheers to making the most of your Thanksgiving!
Mar’Tae Kitchen & Cocktails: A New Dining Experience in Trotwood Opens Its Doors
After a month of soft openings, Mar’Tae Kitchen & Cocktails in Trotwood is now officially open to the public, accepting reservations. Located at 5212 Salem Ave, the restaurant was previously home to Mr. Bourbon and John Anthony’s Southern Cuisine. While reservations are recommended, patrons without one can still enjoy the bar area.
The spacious 5,400-square-foot venue features an elevated dining experience, offering a variety of appetizers such as crab cakes, a deviled egg flight, and collard green dip. The menu includes enticing entrees like:
- Marry Me Chicken: Pan-seared chicken breasts in a sundried tomato cream sauce with garlic, herbs, and parmesan ($24).
- Southern Style Oxtail: Slow-braised oxtail in a rich gravy with southern spices served over yellow rice ($30).
- Grilled Steak Alfredo: Tender marinated steak strips over Alfredo pasta ($30).
- Whole Fried Red Snapper: Whole red snapper deep-fried with zesty Cajun creole sauce ($32).
- Lamb Chops: Herb-marinated lamb chops finished with a red wine demi-glaze ($30).
Sides include mac and cheese, southern candied yams, collard greens, and garlic parmesan truffle fries. The restaurant boasts a cocktail menu with unique offerings such as:
- Southern Sunset: Tequila, triple sec, peach schnapps, and fresh peach puree ($14).
- Blue Smoke Martini: Vodka, rum, blue curaçao, and pomegranate ($14).
- The Mar’Tae Reserve: Whiskey, maple syrup, lemon juice, and strawberry liqueur ($16).
Owners Tae Winston and her brother, Mark Lee, conceived the idea for Mar’Tae as a response to community needs during discussions about the lack of dining options in Trotwood. Their shared vision led to the establishment of a family-friendly restaurant.
Having collaborated with Anthony Thomas of Universal HB Solutions, they’ve transformed the space, which now includes two private dining rooms, a 15-seat bar, and a main dining area for up to 50 guests.
Winston expressed excitement about creating a welcoming atmosphere for the community. "I think Trotwood is community," she said, emphasizing the strong local support they have received throughout their journey.
Mar’Tae Kitchen & Cocktails operates from 4-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Reservations can be made through OpenTable. For more updates, check out the restaurant’s Facebook or Instagram.
Exciting New Beverage Launches: Canned Cocktails, Energizing Drinks, and Beyond!
Beverage innovation plays a vital role in responding to evolving consumer needs and driving growth within the industry. As consumers demand healthier options and unique flavors, brands are innovating to meet these expectations. This includes clean labels, low sugar alternatives, and eco-friendly packaging, as well as catering to cultural trends like mindful drinking.
Recently, several new beverage launches have showcased the industry’s focus on innovation:
New Mix Canned Cocktails
Brown-Forman has launched New Mix in the US, featuring Mexico’s leading ready-to-drink tequila cocktails. Crafted at Casa Herradura in Jalisco, these cocktails boast authentic flavors with the award-winning El Jimador Blanco Tequila. The initial rollout includes two flavors: Paloma, combining grapefruit and tequila, and Cantarito, a citrus-infused variant. Each 355ml can has a 5% ABV, priced at $10.99 for a four-pack, targeting states with a growing spirit-based RTD market.
Coconut Water Sparkling Cocktail
Nirvana, a Florida-based company, has introduced Chill, claimed as the first coconut water sparkling cocktail. This 5% ABV drink combines pure coconut water with premium spirits, crafted to satisfy the rising demand for authentic, functional beverages. Positioned as a high-end option, Nirvana plans to target coastal cities in the US and ultimately expand to the Caribbean and Latin America by 2026.
V8 Energy Pear Ginger
The Campbell’s Company’s V8 Energy has rolled out a limited-edition flavor: Pear Ginger. This blend offers a unique alternative to traditional fall flavors, incorporating pear and ginger with 80 milligrams of caffeine from tea. Each can also provides a serving of fruits and veggies without added sugar, aiming to energize consumers looking for something fresh this season.
RTD Spiced Chai Latte
Drink Me Chai is launching a ready-to-drink (RTD) Spiced Chai Latte in 250ml cans. This new product targets the grab-and-go market, offering a blend of aromatic spices and semi-skimmed milk. With a focus on Gen Z and Millennials, the RTD chai will appeal to the growing demand for convenient yet authentic beverage options.
Crossip Non-Alcoholic Spirits
Crossip, a UK-based brand, has expanded into India, responding to the increasing consumer interest in alcohol-free drinks. The partnership with DryDrnks aims to introduce Crossip’s bold and versatile non-alcoholic spirits to a market eager for mindful drinking experiences. This expansion leverages India’s vibrant cocktail scene, allowing bartenders to create innovative drink options across various strengths.
These innovative products illustrate the beverage industry’s commitment to creating tailored solutions that improve consumer experiences while adapting to market shifts.
Expert Tips: Substituting Peach Schnapps with Bolder Alternatives in Your Cocktails
Peach schnapps is a popular ingredient in many classic cocktails, enhancing drinks like the Sex on the Beach with its sweet and fruity profile. However, its lower alcohol content, typically around 15% ABV, and high sweetness can steer some drinkers away. Molly Horn, a Chief Mixologist at Total Wine & More, offers insight into effective alternatives for peach schnapps in cocktails.
When considering substitutes, Horn emphasizes that replacing peach schnapps with stronger spirits isn’t straightforward. For peach-flavored spirits, she suggests using a peach-flavored whiskey instead of vodka, as it provides a bolder peach flavor. If whiskey isn’t available, soaking peaches in bourbon is another option to achieve a similar taste profile.
It’s important to adjust not just the type of alcohol but also the proportions. Horn advises reducing the overall base spirit or splitting the base between a stronger peach spirit and rum or vodka. Adding simple syrup can help balance any reductions in sweetness, allowing the drink’s flavor to shine without being overpowered.
Some cocktails, like the Bellini, require the unique qualities of schnapps and might not benefit from substitutes. Instead, cocktails such as the Missionary’s Downfall or the Sex on the Beach can creatively incorporate the swaps Horn suggests, maintaining their rich flavors while elevating their alcohol content.
For those looking to explore new flavors, the key is to know your adjustments in both alcohol and sugar content for a well-balanced drink that satisfies your palate.
Expert Tips for Selecting the Perfect Thanksgiving Wine
Thanksgiving can feel overwhelming with its array of dishes and family dynamics, making the choice of a perfect wine seem daunting. The right approach, according to wine experts, isn’t about selecting a single ideal bottle but rather creating a diverse lineup to please various palates. Adam Lapierre, a Master of Wine with Total Wine, advises prioritizing versatility and individual preferences over rigid pairings, highlighting that the holiday is about enjoyment and sharing rather than perfection.
The complexity of a Thanksgiving meal—with its salty gravies, sweet yams, tart cranberries, and rich turkey—calls for wines that are high in acidity to refresh the palate and versatile enough to harmonize with a spectrum of flavors. Brian Gelb, also from Total Wine, emphasizes that wines should complement the meal’s rhythm rather than overpower it.
For whites, Gelb suggests turning to offerings from the Loire Valley, especially Vouvray, which presents a balanced sweetness and vibrant acidity. Lapierre recommends whites from Campania, Italy, known for their freshness and food-friendly qualities. These selections elevate the meal nicely, keeping the atmosphere light and refreshing.
Red wine can also have a place at the table, provided it is chosen wisely. Gelb advises against heavier reds which might dominate the turkey and instead points toward mid-weight options such as Beaujolais Crus like Morgon or Fleurie, known for their berry-driven profiles and earthiness, making them suitable partners for stuffing and other savory dishes.
Champagne and sparkling wines can serve as excellent ice-breakers at the dinner, enhancing the festive spirit. Lapierre champions Grand Cru Champagne for its universal appeal, noting rising consumer interest in sparkling wines that complement various dishes seamlessly.
With value also being a concern, especially during a holiday that can require multiple bottles, both experts stress that there are affordable options in the $25 to $35 range, particularly from both well-established and emerging regions.
Ultimately, the key takeaway for a successful Thanksgiving wine experience is to avoid the trap of selecting just one wine. Instead, offering a selection allows guests to explore what pairs best with their chosen dishes, enriching the overall dining experience and aligning with the holiday spirit of abundance and generosity.
Beer and Food Pairing 101: Mastering the Three C’s for Delicious Combinations
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to start planning festive meals—including the perfect beer pairings. Beer expert Jay R. Brooks provides a guide to successfully match beer with food, emphasizing three key concepts: complement, contrast, and cut.
Complement
Pairing beer with food can be delightful when you align similar flavors. For instance, a dark stout can enhance chocolate brownies, while a hoppy IPA or smoked beer is ideal for barbecued dishes. Consider the flavors in both the beer and the food; if a beer is malty with caramel notes, a thick steak could be the perfect accompaniment.
Contrast
Contrast involves pairing opposites to enhance the dining experience. A classic example is the combination of oysters with stout—where sweet and briny flavors of oysters meet the roasty, bitter notes of stout. Likewise, pairing a sugary beer with sour dishes—like sauerkraut or kimchi—can create a striking balance. The bitterness of hops or roasted malts can cut through sweetness, making each bite more enjoyable.
Cut
The third principle involves using beer to “cut” through rich or fatty foods. High-carbonation beers work well with greasy meals by cleansing the palate. For example, pairing a citrusy lager with fried foods not only refreshes but also accentuates the dish’s flavors.
Additional Considerations
When deciding on pairings, consider the beer’s strength—darker, heavier beers pair better with hearty foods, while lighter dishes call for more delicate options. It’s often best to start with lighter beers during multi-course meals, progressively moving to stronger varieties.
Finally, creating your own pairings can lead to delightful discoveries. Casual yet well-rounded combinations, like pizza with lager or brown ale with shepherd’s pie, stand the test of time. John recalls a serendipitous pairing of chili con carne with blue cheese and an IPA that became a favorite through experimentation.
As you prepare for holiday gatherings, invoke these tips to explore beer and food pairings that elevate your dining experience. Don’t hesitate to share your own innovative combinations as you dive into this flavorful journey.
Stress-Free Guide: How to Host a Wine-Forward Holiday Celebration
Holiday wine gatherings can become quite the task, especially when you’re the designated “wine person.” Between selecting the right bottles for various occasions and ensuring these events run smoothly, the pressure can be overwhelming. However, with a few simple strategies, you can enjoy hosting without turning into a nervous wreck.
Choose Wines Wisely
Start with wines that appeal to a broad audience. Seasonal gatherings are not the right time to experiment with exotic varieties. Instead, opt for popular crowd-pleasers that everyone can appreciate. For red wines, consider blends or classic varietals from lesser-known regions, and for whites, choose options that are lively and easy to drink like Chenin Blanc or Albariño.
Don’t forget to include sparkling wines to kick off the festivities—a bottle of good Cava or Crémant will offer a warm, welcoming touch without breaking the bank.
Shopping Recommendations:
- Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc-Viognier – $16
- Bouchaine Estate Unoaked Chardonnay – $40
- Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon 1.5 L – $215
Serve the Right Glassware
Glassware may seem minor, but using the right stemware can elevate your gatherings. Opt for versatile, elegant glasses that can be used for all types of wines. If budget is a concern, borrowing or renting glasses can also work.
Top Picks:
Simplify Your Food Pairings
Avoid complicated food presentations that can stress you out. Instead, offer simple, salty snacks that complement your wines: think almonds, olives, or crisp, decent crackers. If you’re serving a sit-down dinner, keep the menu straightforward—roasted vegetables and simply grilled meats work beautifully.
Helpful Additions:
Plan One Festive Cocktail
If you want to include cocktails, choose one that you can make in bulk ahead of time, such as a Negroni or a holiday punch. This way, you’re not stuck behind the bar all evening but can still offer something special.
Cocktail Essentials:
- Batch Cocktails Book – $20
Offer Non-Alcoholic Options
Understanding that not everyone drinks alcohol is vital. Provide appealing non-alcoholic choices that won’t make guests feel left out, such as botanical spirits or zero-proof wines. These can help everyone enjoy the party without the aftereffects.
Non-Alcoholic Suggestions:
Handle Leftovers Smartly
Instead of dumping unfinished bottles, consider investing in wine preservation tools. Items like a Coravin make it easy to enjoy glasses from the same bottle over a few days.
Preservation Products:
- Coravin Timeless Three+ – $209
Enjoy the Process
Ultimately, the goal of holiday gatherings is to create memorable experiences and foster warm connections with your guests. By keeping things relaxed and fun, avoiding stress about perfection, and focusing on what truly matters—good company and good times—you’ll ensure that your holiday hosting is nothing short of delightful. Remember, if your guests leave happy and maybe a bit buzzed, you’ve done your job well.
Where to Find the Viral ‘Cat Wine’ Taking Over Social Media
If you’ve come across a charming cat-shaped bottle at a thrift store or as part of someone’s home decor, you’re likely looking at an empty bottle of Moselland Cat Riesling. This unique wine from Germany is known for its whimsical bottle designs in various colors, making them perfect for repurposing as decorations or vases.
According to its distributor, Moselland was the first winery to market wine in a black cat-shaped bottle back in 1969. Over the years, it has introduced many colorful variations, including special editions for holidays and a pink bottle that raises funds for breast cancer research. Each bottle is also adorned with a cute cat design on its cork.
Currently, the gold holiday bottles are trending online. These are noted to have "full-flavored with pear and citrus aromas" and are refreshing on the palate. With an ABV of 10%, they pair well with light or spicy dishes and are reasonably priced at around $15.
As the demand for these bottles grows, they can be challenging to find. Popular retailers like World Market and Total Wine often have a selection in stock. Fans of the wine have also spotted them at local wine shops and German markets.
On social media, users showcase their Moselland collections, with one Instagram user joking about their mother mistaking them for vases. Some comments highlight how these bottles come in various colors and how buyers enjoy painting them to resemble their friends’ cats, creating thoughtful gifts.
Mixed reviews about the wine inside indicate that while some consider it "too sweet" or "generic," others find it delightful and refreshing. Whether you’re in it for the wine or the whimsical bottle, you may need to search a bit to find your own!
The Legendary Tale of Whiskey Punch: How a Cocktail Almost Took Down the White House
American political history is filled with memorable moments involving food and drink. Notably, one incident that stands out is the inauguration of President Andrew Jackson in 1829. Known for his love of whiskey, Jackson’s inauguration took a chaotic turn as approximately 20,000 enthusiastic supporters flooded Washington, D.C. celebrating his victory.
This overwhelming crowd turned the White House into a scene of mayhem. Guests clamored to see Jackson, resulting in furniture damage and spilled refreshments amid the revelry. To mitigate the chaos, White House staff cleverly placed large tubs of whiskey punch and ice cream on the lawn, encouraging guests to move outside and help restore order.
Following this infamous inauguration, Jackson’s association with whiskey became a lasting element of his legacy. He was known to favor bourbon, even distilling it himself in Tennessee before his presidency. As part of the mythos surrounding Jackson, numerous culinary historians have attempted to recreate the fabled orange whiskey punch served at his inauguration—often referred to as "American orange punch" or "inaugural punch."
Though the original recipe has been lost, modern adaptations typically include orange juice, spices, and a base of rye whiskey or bourbon, with variations sometimes calling for Cognac or rum. For those looking to recreate the spirit of that tumultuous day, serving this punch by the barrel could make for quite an entertaining gathering.
For more on the history of food and drink in politics, consider exploring the recipe and variations of Jacksonian punch.