Author: Steve Sweeney

2025 Eggnog Cup Trophy
Update, Poll

2025 Holiday Challenge Results

Before jumping into the Voting Results, let’s review the entries that were submitted: Luigi’s Limoncello; Santa 75; Apple Vintage; Kringle’s Black Krussian; Cranberry Inspiration; and Just an Old Fashioned Nog.

It was another spirited competition with lively voting.

Each voter received 100 points to allocate towards the participating entries. Points could be distributed however the voter wanted, with one exception: We asked anyone who submitted a cocktail for judging allocate only 50 points to their own entry.

Click “Read on” to see the full recap

Kringle's Black Krussian
Cocktail

Kringle’s Black Krussian

Legend has it that when Kris Kringle grew tired of the same old milk-and-cookies routine, he went looking for something darker, warmer, and decidedly more grown-up. The result? A bold winter reinvention of the classic White Russian, infused with spice, depth, and just enough indulgence to add the “Ho-Ho-Ho” back into your Holiday Season.

apple cranberry old fashioned
Cocktail

Apple Vintage

The Apple Vintage was inspired by our Mom’s apple cranberry pie. We have it every Thanksgiving, and it’s perfect for the holidays.

We decided to put a spin on a classic old-fashioned, adding cranberry-cinnamon syrup and apple juice to the base recipe.

Mulling spice with rosemary
Simple Syrup, Sub-recipe

Mulling Spice and Rosemary Simple Syrup

This syrup was born from the comforting rituals of the colder months—pots simmering on the stove, the air perfumed with spice, and evergreen notes drifting through the kitchen. By gently steeping classic mulling spices with fresh rosemary, this simple syrup captures the essence of the holidays in a single pourable compound, designed to bring warmth and character to everything it touches.

Feliz Nogidad
Eggnog

Feliz Nogidad

Feliz Nogidad is a holiday eggnog that opens with a rich and luxurious texture, thanks to its classic base of eggs, milk, and cream. The dairy foundation provides a naturally silky mouthfeel and gentle sweetness, perfectly balancing the spirited warmth of the alcohols.
 
Añejo tequila offers lush vanilla, warm caramel, and a ribbon of cinnamon. At the same time, Amontillado sherry adds its signature Brazil nut and hazelnut richness, accented by stewed fruit and a touch of sea salt complexity that elevates the finish.

2024 Champion - Shannon
Update

The 2024 Champion – Fireside Mule

The Fireside Mule ignites the classic Moscow Mule with a fiery twist. 🔥 Shannon Sweeney Fireside Mule This cocktail ignites the classic Moscow Mule with a fiery twist. 🔥 Iowa-distilled Revelton Honey Vodka pairs with sweet jalapeno to carefully balance the drink’s sharp, fresh ginger and jalapeno heat. Topped with fresh jalapeno, the Fireside Mule […]

Fireside Mule Cocktail
Cocktail

Fireside Mule

This cocktail ignites the classic Moscow Mule with a fiery twist. 🔥

Iowa-distilled Revelton Honey Vodka pairs with sweet jalapeno to carefully balance the drink’s sharp, fresh ginger and jalapeno heat.

Topped with fresh jalapeno, the Fireside Mule is perfect for warming up on cold nights.