Holiday Mugs and Shots!

As the holiday season unfolds, various cultures globally embrace their unique traditions, often celebrating with special beverages that warm the soul and evoke a sense of festivity. From spicy mulled wines to creamy eggnogs, here are some of our global favorites:

Gluhwein (Germany) Recipe

In Germany, the aroma of Gluhwein, a hot mulled wine, fills the air at bustling Christmas markets. This concoction of red wine, spices like cinnamon and cloves, and citrus fruits offers a comforting warmth against the winter chill. Its origins trace back to the 2nd century, believed to have been introduced by the Romans.

Ponche Navideno (Mexico) Recipe

Ponche Navideno is a beloved Mexican Christmas punch that embodies the vibrant flavors of the season. This simmering blend combines fruits like guava, sugarcane, tejocotes (a type of crabapple), and cinnamon sticks, and is sweetened with piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar). Families gather around to sip on this aromatic brew during posadas - a series of festive processions leading up to Christmas.

Tom and Jerry (United States) Recipe

Originating in the United States in the 19th century, the Tom and Jerry is a creamy concoction made with eggs, sugar, rum, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Served warm in a mug, it's a comforting and indulgent treat often shared during holiday gatherings, especially around Christmas and New Year's.

Sbiten (Russia) Recipe

Russian winters call for Sbiten, a traditional hot drink dating back to medieval times. This beverage combines honey, water, and an array of spices like cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Sbiten was once served by street vendors and remains a nostalgic winter warmer, evoking a sense of tradition and history.

Sahlep (Turkey) Recipe

Sahlep, a comforting hot beverage made from the powdered tubers of a specific orchid, milk, and sugar, holds a special place in Turkish winter culture. Sprinkled with cinnamon on top, it's a creamy delight enjoyed during the colder months, often considered a remedy for colds.

Sake (Japan) Recipe

During the New Year in Japan, Sake is the drink of choice for toasting to fresh beginnings. This rice wine, brewed through a meticulous process, symbolizes purity and renewal. Families and friends gather for joyous celebrations, raising cups of sake in a tradition known as "Kagami Biraki" to herald the new year.

Eggnog (United States and Europe) Recipe

Eggnog, a velvety concoction made with milk, cream, sugar, whipped eggs, and often spiked with rum, brandy, or bourbon, is a quintessential holiday treat in the United States and parts of Europe. Its origins date back centuries, with variations of this creamy drink enjoyed during winter festivities. Eggnog embodies the richness of the season, often garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon, served cold or warm, and shared among friends and family during Christmas and New Year's celebrations.

Boiled Custard (Southern United States) Recipe

In the Southern United States, particularly during the holiday season, Boiled Custard holds a cherished place on tables. This comforting beverage is a close cousin to eggnog but is typically made by heating milk or cream with sugar and egg yolks until it thickens, creating a smooth and luscious drink. Often infused with vanilla or a hint of nutmeg, boiled custard is served chilled or slightly warm, offering a creamy, indulgent experience reminiscent of childhood holiday gatherings

From the creamy richness of Eggnog to the smooth comfort of Boiled Custard, these traditional beverages play integral roles in the tapestry of seasonal celebrations. Each sip carries the essence of nostalgia, bringing families and communities together, fostering warmth, and infusing the air with the spirit of the holiday season. As we cherish these drinks, we honor the cultural significance they hold, inviting us to revel in the joy of shared traditions during the winter months.