We’re just a week away from the big day, and whether you’re looking for something to enjoy at one of the few parties remaining, or are looking for a gift for the scoundrel on your list, there’s myriad options for people.

Even when I put the question out to readers and tweeps, the answers were varied.

One thing I was surprised about was the lack of people for whom wine was top of mind at Christmastime, even though I know there are many people out there who, when faced with a $20-limit gift exchange, make a dash for the Cabernet aisle at the liquor store.

For me, I love a nice sipping Merlot or Pinot Noir at the holidays. But it’s not surprising some people go with the old standbys.

Rum and egg nog

I get it’s not for everyone, but it’s still very popular. And while most people would lean toward rum of the spiced variety, I’d recommend trying other varieties, such as an aged rum.

I have a bottle of Bacardi Anejo that was given to me as a gift, and I find its vanilla and caramel notes a perfect match for the sweetness of nog.

I also saw an intriguing concoction on Iron Chef America this week (I confess, I am a Food Network junkie). “Competitor” Bobby Flay added a bit of bubbly to his rum and egg nog, which I have determined I need to try this holiday season.

Beer
When it comes to beer for the holidays, I’ve made my thoughts known about some of my favourites. I think Howe Sound, Wild Rose, Big Rock and Granville Island all have great winter beers on the market right now.

And it seems the darker, the better for people out there. St. Ambroise makes a great stout, and for people who are fans of Wild Rose’s Cherry Porter, may I also recommend Young’s Double Chocolate Stout.

For people looking for nice complex flavour, any of the Innis & Gunn offerings would make great stocking stuffers, especially (tying into the seasonal fondness of rum) their rum cask-aged beer.

Irish cream
Everyone seems to have a favourite when it comes to the sweeter side of sipping, but at this time of year, people want to Irish things up. Baileys seems to be the first choice when it comes to Irish cream, but there are some decent products that may save you a couple of bucks, like Carolans.

Drambuie is also great at this time of year, but if you want to offer guests a liqueur that’s great-looking as well as great-tasting, Sheridan’s Coffee Layered Cream Liqueur is the way to go.

Bourbon
I love bourbon.

Not as much as I love Scotch, mind you, but I was glad to see at least one person on Twitter mention that they also enjoy a nice bourbon on a special occasion, such as Christmas. Maker’s Mark (pictured above) is great, as is the selection from Knobb Creek.

But don’t forget the power of gifting someone a nice bottle of Scotch, especially if you know two of the three contributors to this blog. (hint, hint.)

Just remember, whatever you choose to enjoy this holiday season, please, enjoy it responsibly.

Tags: beer, big rock, booze, bourbon, Christmas, egg nog, Granville Island, Howe Sound, rum, scotch, whisky, Wild Rose