As the weather cools and the holiday season begins, few things bring people together like a glass of well-chosen bourbon. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or cozying up by the fire, the right bottle can turn any evening into a celebration.
This month, Served Neat’s Thirsty Thursdays and other sale events feature full-bodied bourbons and XL bottles perfect for sharing with friends and family.
We’ve rounded up our favorite bourbons for festive entertaining with tasting notes, dinner pairings, and creative holiday ideas.
1. Weller Special Reserve: The Velvet Classic
Tasting Notes: Honey, vanilla, soft oak, and a hint of butterscotch.
Pairing Idea: The smooth sweetness of Weller complements roasted turkey, glazed ham, or pecan pie.
Holiday Tip: Serve Weller in an Old Fashioned with orange zest for a simple but crowd-pleasing cocktail that pairs beautifully with rich appetizers.
2. E.H. Taylor Small Batch: A Heritage Pour
Tasting Notes: Caramel, baking spice, and a bold oaky finish.
Pairing Idea: Perfect alongside steak or a holiday charcuterie board. The bourbon’s spicy character enhances smoked meats and sharp cheeses.
Holiday Tip: Use E.H. Taylor as the base for a spiced bourbon punch or other batch cocktail.
3. Angel’s Envy: Finished to Perfection
Tasting Notes: Port-finished richness with notes of dark fruit, vanilla, and chocolate.
Pairing Idea: A beautiful match for chocolate desserts or a post-dinner cheese course.
Holiday Tip: Set up an “Angel’s Envy Dessert Bar” with bourbon-infused truffles and berry tarts.
4. Wild Turkey 101: The Host’s Hero
Tasting Notes: Bold caramel, toffee, and spice with a warm, lasting finish.
Pairing Idea: Works well with BBQ, spiced nuts, and holiday stuffing.
Holiday Tip: Mix into large-format cocktails like bourbon punch or apple cider toddies to serve a crowd easily.
5. Blanton’s Original Single Barrel: The Collector’s Favorite
Tasting Notes: Vanilla, nutmeg, and dried fruit with a hint of spice.
Pairing Idea: Excellent with smoked duck or maple-glazed salmon.
Holiday Tip: Blanton’s makes a memorable gift! Wrap a bottle in a bow and add a tasting journal for the bourbon lover in your life.
6. Pappy Van Winkle’s 15 Year: The Ultimate Toast
Tasting Notes: Rich toffee, cocoa, leather, and baking spice
Pairing Idea: Sip alongside a dark chocolate torte or aged cheese.
Holiday Tip: Serve this legendary bourbon as your final pour of the night; a perfect “cheers” to another year of good company and great whiskey.
Bourbon Holiday Entertaining Ideas
- Create a Bourbon Flight Bar: Offer small pours of three to four bourbons, from smooth Weller to bold Wild Turkey.
- Dinner Pairing Party: Choose bourbons to complement each course: lighter, wheated bourbons for appetizers and deeper, spicier options for the main course.
- Signature Cocktail Station: Encourage guests to craft their own bourbon cocktails using cinnamon sticks, citrus garnishes, and seasonal syrups.
Celebrate the Season with Served Neat
Make your holiday gatherings unforgettable with premium bourbons built for sharing. Explore Thirsty Thursdays all November long and stock up on XL bottles & warming whiskies that make entertaining effortless.
Because when it comes to hosting, the right bourbon isn’t just a drink..it’s a memory in the making. Cheers and Happy Holidays!
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