Toast-Worthy Beverages to Gift or Sip for Yourself

From a creamy pistachio liqueur that’s like a dessert itself to a refreshing apple-flavored Irish whiskey, these alcoholic beverages are perfect to toast on any occasion. Whether you like mezcal, whiskey, tequila, or liqueur, consider these options when you’re looking for gift ideas for others or want to find a beverage for yourself.

Photo by Carmen Varner

Bottega Liqueurs

Get a taste of Italy from the comfort of your own home with Bottega Spirits flavored liqueurs. The family-owned and operated distillery has scrumptious flavors such as chocolate and hazelnut Gianduia, Sicilian lemon Limoncino, Crema di Pistacchio, white chocolate Fior di Latte, as well as others. This line of spirits hails from the northeastern region of Veneto, Italy, but you can find it in places like Total Wine & More or potentially your local Italian restaurant. I’ll never forget the creamy and vibrant pistachio croissant I tried in a bakery in Milan, so this low-ABV pistachio cream liqueur reminds me of good times. Drink this cold on its own or paired with coffee or gelato. The Bottega cream-based liqueurs make a divine dessert in a glass.

Photo by Carmen Varner

Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple

Channel your favorite caramel apple lollipop with Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple whiskey. The brand, founded by professional mixed martial artist and professional boxer Conor McGregor, added this flavor in early 2023 to complement its Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey. In addition to the apple flavor, this whiskey has notes of warm caramel, oak, and browned butter for a smooth taste. This whiskey works for a weekday cocktail or a fun holiday festivity. At 35% ABV, Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple whiskey tastes great alone, on ice, or mixed into a cocktail. Check out some of the recipes you can make with it. They also give back by donating $5 from each case sold to support first responder organizations.

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Dulce Vida Tequila

Dulce Vida Tequila has a range of choices from blanco, reposado, and añejo tequila to fruit-infused versions like lime, grapefruit, and pineapple jalapeño. They also have ready-to-drink cocktails and canned sparkling cocktails, so you’ll be bound to find something to suit your tastebuds. The core tequilas are organic and made with 100% Blue Weber agave whereas the fruited ones use blue agave. The grapefruit tequila is tart and tangy, making an ideal Paloma base. For a lighter version, use grapefruit sparkling water, lime or grapefruit juice, and a slice of grapefruit for garnish. If you want to give the gift of tequila, Dulce Vida Tequila’s options are a solid choice. 

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Ilegal Mezcal

When I visited Oacaxa, Mexico, I enjoyed seeing the mezcal-making process. While the exact process may vary by brand, it was interesting to see how it’s made and to smell the fragrant agave as it ferments. Schedule a tour and tasting of Ilegal Mezcal when you head to Oacaxa or purchase from their online shop. They have joven, reposado, añejo, and a 7 year añejo as well as 375ml and 750ml sizes. All Ilegal Mezcal bottles are made from 100% post-consumer recycled glass that would otherwise have gone straight to the landfill. The 40% ABV joven mezcal is smoky and smooth, allowing you to sip it on its own with great pleasure. This unaged variety has hints of green apple, fresh citrus, and red chiltepe, which is a type of pepper.

Photo by Carmen Varner

Sorel Liqueur

When you’re in the mood for something rich and spiced, try Sorel Liqueur, which is made with a blend of Moroccan hibiscus, Brazilian clove, Indonesian cassia, Nigerian ginger, and Indonesian nutmeg. The drink sorrel has a long history in the African diaspora with each family having their unique recipe. This 15% ABV Caribbean beverage is perfect to drink if you want something packed with flavor. The drink resembles wine in its redness but has warm spices and doesn’t have an alcohol aftertaste. Serve Sorel any which way, from hot to cold to in a mixed drink. If you know someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy the taste of alcohol but does like a cocktail every once in a while, this makes a fantastic gift. 

Mix up how you do cocktail hour with some of these unique beverages. Make mixed drinks, sip it on the rocks, or use your favorite recipe. Find out more about each brand on their website.