Just because you’re not inviting people over this holiday season, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a well-stocked, top-notch home bar. NEWS FLASH: YOU DESERVE NICE THINGS. Check out these picks for delicious, locally-made liquors to make your bar the envy of all even if the “all” is just you.
BOURBON
Let’s not fuck around; bourbon is a must-have for any self-respecting liquor cabinet. I’m an eternal fan of Bull Run Straight Bourbon Whiskey, whose smooth vanilla and caramel notes with a touch of spice mixes great in your Manhattan, Hot Toddy, or Irish Coffee. You also can’t go wrong with Burnside Oregon Oaked Bourbon from Eastside Distilling, where oak, vanilla, and cinnamon play on the tongue before warmly sliding down your thankful throat with a kick. Honorary mention: Freeland Bourbon, from the women-owned Freeland Spirits, that has all the vanilla/spice you need with a hint of terroir thanks to a good, final soak in an Oregon Elk Cove Pinot Noir barrel.