Holiday Cheer and Spirits

Dani Lind, Produce Department

Sharing work space with the VFC Beer & Wine buyer, Greg Cheesebro, has many perks – notably lots and lots of laughs and the proximity to relentlessly pester him into stocking store shelves with some of my favorite spirits. A special bottle from that little top shelf in aisle 4 (appreciated responsibly in moderation, of course) can help bring extra cheer to holiday gatherings or brighten up the darkest winter evening.

One winter favorite that is especially festive to break out when holiday visitors come to call is Port wine. Greg stocks my favorite, the Portuguese Warre’s King’s Tawny Porto (rumor has it we’ll be stocking a local one from Wollersheim Winery soon – can’t wait to try it). Awfully sweet, one little jewel-like glass is enough to sip on for quite some time. It’s particularly delicious with dark chocolate truffles...

Nothing warms me up on a cold evening like sipping a hot toddy in front of the fire. You can use any kind of whiskey, rum, or brandy, but my favorite to use is the John L. Sullivan Irish Whiskey Greg has on the top shelf here at the store. It’s super smooth and rich. Hot Toddies are simple to make, but my husband Mike’s somehow always taste better than mine.

Holiday time also means that happy time of year when Organic Valley’s Eggnog makes its limited time appearance. If you haven’t tried it, you simply must – it’s the best: super rich, thick and creamy, perfect balance of sweet and nutmeg. The only thing that makes it better is a little spike of yummy French Raynal Brandy VOSP or Nicaraguan Flor de Caña Rum.

The right beer, wine, or spirit, carefully chosen, can perfectly introduce, accentuate, or finish off a nice meal – but they also make handy last minute gifts! If you’re looking for something you don’t see on the shelf, just take my cue and pester Greg. He just might be able to special order it for you.