Eggnog, the creamy, spiced beverage synonymous with holiday cheer, traces its origins to medieval England, where it evolved from a simple drink known as "posset" to the festive mix we relish today. This year, as holiday celebrations ramp up, establishments across the country are preparing their unique takes on this classic drink, highlighting both its rich history and continued popularity.
At Scoma's Restaurant in San Francisco, the holiday season's batch of eggnog started brewing 11 months ago, illustrating the dedication some places have to perfecting their recipes. According to Gordon Drysdale, the restaurant's culinary director, the process begins just after the previous year's festivities end. Nearly one thousand egg yolks, gallons of heavy cream, and approximately $1,000 worth of vanilla beans are combined with sugar and premium spirits: sherry, brandy, and aged rum. Once mixed, this concoction is stored at 34 degrees Fahrenheit and stirred weekly until the holiday season rolls around.
Phil Kenny, a customer at Scoma's, shared his enthusiasm. "It's a wonderful, specialty drink," he said, praising the establishment's refined recipe, which has benefited from careful aging over the months. "This takes eggnog to a different level," he added, referring to the drink's transformation through the years at Scoma's.
Despite its festive appeal, eggnog's status has shifted over time. Where it once evoked images of cozy holiday gatherings with grandparents, it has taken on new life as a cult favorite among younger patrons. Drysdale noted, "We did not ever anticipate people actually being mad at us because we didn't have it," indicating the drink's growing fanbase.
Eggnog's historical roots stretch back to England, where the original posset was crafted from hot milk, alcohol, and spices—a drink primarily enjoyed by the upper class. It made the voyage across the Atlantic with British settlers, quickly finding favor during the festive season. Early American versions were frequently spiked with rum, whiskey, or brandy, catering to the country's abundant dairy supplies.
The drink's connection to notable figures like George Washington, who reportedly had his recipe spiked with multiple types of alcohol, adds to its legacy. Washington's affinity for sharing his potent eggnog mixture with guests solidified the drink's place at holiday gatherings, establishing traditions still observed today.
Across the nation, bartenders and chefs are bending the eggnog narrative to include modern twists. Jamie Gourges, the marketing manager for Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop—a historic bar located in New Orleans—revealed their secret method. "I like to say it's a little Christmas magic," she said of the bar's beloved eggnog daiquiri, made fresh daily from Thanksgiving until Three Kings Day, celebrated on January 6. Gourges emphasized the tradition behind the beverage, which has remained consistently popular at the iconic establishment founded by French privateer Jean Lafitte.
Regular patron Terry Wittmer from New Orleans shared his joy for the holiday period at Lafitte's, commenting, "It tastes like Christmas. It's a little cinnamon-y. It's smooth and if you drink it too fast you might get a brain freeze." For both locals and visitors, the eggnog experience at this haunted bar transcends typical holiday drinking, luring them back daily.
But if you think eggnog is only for sipping, you might want to think again. It has inspired modern cooks to incorporate the creamy drink beyond just festive cocktail glasses. Many have begun using eggnog as the base for desserts like cookies and cakes, eleving traditional fare with this flavorful ingredient.
The celebration of National Eggnog Day on December 24 serves as another occasion to enjoy this iconic drink. Those who want to participate are encouraged to embrace the holiday tradition through various means—whether through crafting homemade batches, experimenting with new flavors, or simply toasting with friends and family.
For enthusiasts, the term "eggnog" itself likely finds its roots tied to "noggin," referring to the wooden cup used to serve drinks, or "grog," denoting strong alcoholic beverages. This playful etymology reflects the drink's spirited history.
Interestingly, eggnog ignites discussions around the timing of consumption—some fans hold off until December, whereas others indulge starting as early as October. A fun fact worth noting: The largest glass of eggnog ever made was recorded in 2010, measuring over 7,200 gallons. Now, that's quite the holiday party!
This holiday season, take time to appreciate the creamy, spiced goodness of eggnog, whether enjoyed by the fire or transformed to yield delectable treats. Eggnog is more than just another drink; it symbolizes togetherness and festivity during this remarkable time of year.
So raise your glass—whether it's filled with traditional eggnog, laced with spirits, or creamy and non-alcoholic—to the joy and celebration of holiday traditions.
