The New Year is a special time when the festive atmosphere fills every home. Traditionally, this day is marked by lavish feasts featuring delicious dishes and, of course, alcoholic beverages. These drinks not only complement the New Year’s dinner but also enhance the mood, making the celebration more vibrant and enjoyable.
How do you choose the right alcohol for New Year's Eve? Festive drinks for the holiday table have long extended beyond the classic vodka and champagne. Today, the variety is so extensive that everyone can find something exciting: from fans of strong spirits to those who prefer lighter options.
Strong Alcohol
This category includes beverages with an alcohol content of over 20%.
1. Vodka holds the top spot among strong beverages for New Year's tables. A classic choice, it is best served chilled in small shot glasses. Pair it with traditional festive appetizers such as fish or meat dishes and salads.
2. Whiskey- for many, whiskey is the best alcohol for New Year's Eve, perfectly complementing the cozy holiday atmosphere. Whether Scotch, Irish, or American, this drink adds sophistication to the table. Serve neat or with ice.
3. Cognac - often enjoyed after dessert, cognac reveals its flavors slowly, thanks to the tannins that moderate intoxication. Pair it with dark chocolate or lemon. To savor the full aroma, serve it in wide-bottomed glasses.
Hennessy VSOP Privilege Cognac 40% 0.5L
Camus Very Special Cognac 40% 1L
4. Brandy - with an alcohol content of 30-45%, brandy features a soft wine or fruity aroma. It pairs well with chocolate or fruits and is served in cognac glasses.
Saint-Remy Authentic VSOP Brandy 1L
Metaxa Amphora 7* Brandy 40% 1L
5. Herbal Infusions and Liqueurs made from berries and herbs are perfect for those who appreciate natural, tart flavors.
Becherovka Carlsbad Bitter 38% 1L
Jagermeister 0.5L
6. Rum offers a broad spectrum of flavors, from classic white to rich dark varieties, with alcohol content ranging from 30% to 60%. It’s usually served as an aperitif. Rum can be strong on its own, so it’s often mixed with cola or apple juice and paired with appetizers.
Captain Morgan Dark Spiced Rum 40% 1L
7. Gin - this juniper-based spirit (35-45% alcohol) has a distinct piney taste. It pairs wonderfully with cheese and cured ham.
Bombay Sapphire Sunset Gin 43% 1L
Finsbury London Dry Gin 37.5% 1L
8. Tequila adds an exotic touch to the celebration. It’s traditionally served with salt and lime or cinnamon and orange for a sweeter taste.
Sierra Tequila Silver 1L
KAH Tequila Blanco 40% 0.7L
Low-Alcohol Beverages
These beverages, with an alcohol content of up to 20-22%, are highly popular during celebrations.
1. Champagne and Sparkling Wines remain leaders in the top alcohol picks for New Year's tables. These drinks are symbolic, traditionally consumed during the chime of the clock at midnight. Their light, bubbly nature is perfect for toasts and adds a festive touch to the celebration. The best choices include classic brands from the Champagne region in France or quality sparkling wines from Italy and Spain. Note that carbonation speeds up intoxication, often leading to "morning-after" effects.
JP. Chenet Sparkling Ice 0.75L
Martini Prosecco 0.75L
Dom Perignon Rose '06 0.75L
2. Wine - whether white, red, or rosé, the choice depends on the dishes on the table and personal preferences. Properly selected glasses enhance the aroma: elongated glasses for white wine and "tulip" glasses for red wine. Red wine can also be used to prepare mulled wine, a traditional warming winter drink made with spices, fruits, and honey.
JP. Chenet Cabernet Syrah
Torres Vina Sol 0.75L
Guy Saget Rose d'Anjou 0.75L
3. Light Cream Liqueurs have a pleasant, delicate taste, often featuring coffee, chocolate, fruit-berry, or spicy notes.
Sheridan's Coffee Layered Liqueur 1L
Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur 17% 1L
4. Vermouth -this aromatic beverage, with subtle hints of herbs and spices, can be enjoyed neat or in cocktails with soda, tonic, or fruits. Vermouth is ideal as an aperitif before the main course.
When choosing drinks for the New Year’s table, consider not only the preferences of your guests but also remember moderation. A well-chosen selection of alcohol will make the celebration unforgettable and help create a magical atmosphere that will be remembered for the entire year!
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
For those who choose to celebrate New Year’s Eve without alcohol, there are plenty of exciting options. Many famous cocktails have non-alcoholic versions, such as Mojito or Bellini.
Here are some of the most popular non-alcoholic beverages for the New Year:
1. Mulled Wine (Non-Alcoholic)
A winter favorite, mulled wine can be made both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. This hot beverage is flavored with spices, fruits, and berries, making it a cozy and festive choice.
2. Punch
This drink can be easily customized to suit your taste. Alcohol is replaced with tea or juice, with orange punch being a particularly festive option.
3. Eggnog
A popular European drink made with eggs and milk or cream. It can be served hot or cold, depending on preference.
Pre-Order Alcohol from Duty-Free Shops
Planning a holiday trip? You can select your New Year’s alcohol from our online catalog on the Mydutyfree website or app. Simply choose the location of your departure, browse the options, and place an online order. You’ll be able to pay at a discounted price and collect your purchases on the day you cross the border at the Duty-Free checkout counter.
Wishing you a joyful and cozy holiday season!