Finding the perfect gift during the holiday rush can feel overwhelming, but a well-chosen bottle of wine, whiskey, or tequila never goes out of style. Whether you’re shopping for a cocktail enthusiast, a holiday host, or someone who simply loves a seasonal treat, the right bottle feels personal without being complicated. This guide breaks down exactly what to buy for every type of person on your list, and the best part? You can find it all at Tri-State Liquors, where holiday savings make gift-giving easier than ever.
For the Cocktail Lover
If they love mixing drinks or experimenting with new recipes, choose something versatile.
Recommended: Premium vodka or a well-rounded tequila that works in classics like margaritas, martinis, and holiday cocktails. Pair it with a small mixer or garnish pack for a thoughtful bundle.
Holiday Recipe Idea: Sugar Cookie Martini
Give the cocktail lover on your list a recipe they can enjoy right away using a quality vanilla vodka or a classic premium vodka.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vanilla vodka (or substitute with regular vodka)
- 1 oz Irish cream liqueur
- 1 oz amaretto
- 1 oz half and half or milk
- Vanilla frosting and sprinkles for rim
Instructions:
- Rim a martini glass with sugar or sprinkles if desired.
- Fill a shaker with ice and add vodka, Irish cream, amaretto, and half and half.
- Shake well until chilled and creamy.
- Strain into the prepared martini glass and serve immediately.
It’s a simple, festive drink that tastes like a holiday cookie in a glass, making it a perfect gift idea paired with any of the recommended spirits.
For the Holiday Host
This is the person who fills their home with flavor, décor, and inviting gatherings. They’ll appreciate a bottle that elevates their seasonal entertaining.
Recommended: A high-quality bourbon or spiced rum that complements warm winter drinks, desserts, and after-dinner toasts.
Holiday Recipe: Spiced Rum Hot Toddies
Ingredients:
- 2 oz spiced rum
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4–6 oz hot water
- Cinnamon stick or lemon slice
Instructions:
- Add rum, honey, and lemon to a mug.
- Top with hot water and stir until dissolved.
- Garnish and serve warm.
For the Wine Lover
Wine is a timeless gift, especially during the winter season. A curated bottle shows care and attention.
Recommended: A bold cabernet for the enthusiast who prefers rich, complex flavors, or a crisp prosecco for someone who enjoys lighter, celebratory pours.
Holiday Recipe: Cranberry Prosecco Spritz
Ingredients:
- 4 oz prosecco
2 oz cranberry juice - Splash of club soda
- Fresh cranberries
Instructions:
- Add cranberry juice to a flute or wine glass.
- Top with prosecco.
- Add a splash of club soda.
- Garnish with cranberries
Light, refreshing, and perfect for any holiday gathering.
For the Whiskey Collector
If someone on your list loves craftsmanship and depth of flavor, choose a bottle with character.
Recommended: A smooth Irish whiskey or an aged bourbon they can enjoy slowly on a quiet winter evening.
Holiday Recipe: Maple Old Fashioned
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or Irish whiskey
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
- 2–3 dashes bitters
- Orange peel
Instructions:
- Stir whiskey, maple syrup, and bitters with ice.
- Strain over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange peel.
For the Life of the Party
Some people bring excitement to every holiday event. Give them a bottle that suits their spirited personality.
Recommended: Flavored vodkas, ready-to-drink cocktails, or tequila varieties that shine in festive punches and group cocktails.
Holiday Recipe: Cranberry Tequila Punch
Ingredients:
- 2 cups tequila
- 3 cups cranberry juice
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup ginger ale
- Fresh cranberries and orange slices
Instructions:
- Mix tequila, cranberry juice, and orange juice in a large pitcher.
- Chill, then top with ginger ale before serving.
- Add cranberries and orange slices.
For Someone Hard to Shop For
When you’re unsure what to buy, spirits offer a simple and thoughtful solution.
Recommended: A beautifully packaged gift set, a specialty liqueur, or a seasonal spirit that adds cheer to winter celebrations.
Holiday Recipe: Spiked Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces hot chocolate or boxed
- 2 ounces Pinnacle Whipped Vodka
- 1 ounce Peppermint Schnapps
- 1 peppermint stick optional
- Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Pour vodka and peppermint schnapps into a mug.
- Top with hot hot chocolate.
- Stir gently and finish with whipped cream and crushed peppermint.
Rich, cozy, and perfect for cold December nights.
Wrap Up Your Holiday Shopping at Tri-State Liquors
No matter who you’re buying for, the perfect bottle is within reach. With unbeatable December pricing, customer favorites, and plenty of seasonal options, Tri-State Liquors makes holiday gifting easy and affordable. Stop in, browse the shelves, and bring home something they’ll be excited to open. Cheers to a joyful holiday season.