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5 drinks that will make cocktail hours at home extra special this Christmas
Christmas is a time for parties and get-togethers but with COVID-19 still out there, we're thinking of making cocktail hours at home just a tad more special instead.
Enter these 5 different drinks.
Not only are they delicious, they're also quite special. They're new things in the market, limited editions, or ones you can dress up according to the occasion.
What are we waiting for? Let's cheers to Baby Jesus!
1. If you're looking for something for day drinking: Get this limited edition bottle of Hendrick's Gin
Called Midsummer Solstice, it has the infusion of floral essences for a bright and fragrant drink.
Because it's aromatic, it's already great as is, neat or on the rocks. But because it is aromatic, Hendrick's Midsummer Solstice makes for a fabulous base for cocktails, too.
Created by Hendrick's Master Distiller Lesley Gracie, Midsummer Solstice is deeply rooted in respect for nature. Get it in a Twin Pack with the original Hendrick's Gin from S&R.
2. If you're looking for a truly local cocktail: Learn more about Proudly Promdi
Proudly Promdi is a cool little brand that has been using and promoting local spirits — like Ilocos' Bugnay and Tapuey — for some time now.
For the holidays, they whipped two cool ready-to-drink cocktails you can get on its own or as a set. The Katipunero (P300) uses Tapuey (local rice wine from Ilocos), basil-infused whiskey, islay whiskey, ginger liqueur, and strawberry syrup for a smokey, spicy trip.
The Meztiza (P300) meanwhile is a fruity, floral drink comprised of Bugnay Wine, basil-infused gin, lemon, mango, jasmine tea syrup, rose water and milk.
They're bound to create a stir, especially among the twenty-something Gen Zs, so if you're feeling like the cool tita or tito, consider gifting your pamangkins either or both bottles in time for the Zoom family noche buena. And then get a set for yourself. Buy it from their website.
3. If you're a slightly more adventurous wine drinker: Check out the Napa de Oro Wines
Napa de Oro is a new brand of fine wines produced in the Coombsville region of the famed Napa Valley. It is a product of partnership between award-winning winemaker Rudy Zuidema and a group of wine-loving Davaoenos including Butchoy and Bing Taojo, Andreas Taojo, and US based attorney Abe Marapao.
Napa de Oro has quite the line up with a white (Sauvignon Blanca), a rose, and a number of reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Caroline's Red Blend, Merlot, Grenache, and Chardonnay).
They're available in the US, made with the global market in mind, but Zuidema said they were also guided by the Philippine climate in making the wines. "What the [Philippine] market will appreciate is something more acidic, fresher, brighter, and more refreshing in the mouth," he said.
Napa de Oro is available in Bloom Cafe + Bar in Greenbelt or through the online shop.
4. If you want impress with something obscure and potent: Consider Mortlach Whisky
Mortlach is the whisky world's best kept secret. It hails from Scotland's Speyside region, carries the nickname the "Beast of Dufftown," and boasts a full range of single malts that have thick character spirit, with dark, complex, and rich notes.
Mortlach 12 is the 12-year-old single malt that has been matured in both European and American oak, enhancing its rich and robust character (P4,045).
Mortlach 16 is big and deep, but also has a honeyed sweetness to it (P7,635).
Mortlach 20 is matured for a minimum of 20 years. It has depth with a range of aromas — like of that overripe fruits, a touch of spice, and even a meaty element to it (P16,960). Mortlach is available in liquor.ph.
5. If you can't decide what you're looking for: This flight of cocktails from ARC Artisanal Spirits and Run Rabbit Run
It contains three different cocktails, each inspired by Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. As such, you get three tasty concoctions to choose from.
One is clean and refreshing, the other is sweet and spicy, and the last is full-bodied with rich textures and deep berry flavors. A set makes about 8 servings and will set you back P2,400. Get it from RRR's website.
— LA, GMA News
