Wazz-ail

Previously on Saucyman…

An intrepid reader asked for a list of essential bar items needed to properly host a party, in this instance a holiday party. Saucyman’s response was that full bars aren’t necessary for parties, that for the reasons of simplicity, economy and quality should offer guests along with non-alcoholic choices, beer, wine and one – possibly two cocktails to choose from.

This is true for all parties but given the tradition of punches, nogs and ales at Christmas time, this feat is easier to pull off during the holidays. So what to serve, what to serve?

What evokes what many argue is the birthplace of modern Christmas traditions, Dickensian England? Tiny Tim, a plump goose, the lonely vision presented by the spirit of Christmas future – nope, the spirit of cheap juniper-scented gin. Saucyman’s stated belief is that gin is in fact the devil’s water and should be avoided.

Besides no one is clamoring for that level of authenticity. Celebrations want to be anglo- traditional, not anglo-accurate. Punches such as the classic mulled wine and only thought about at Christmas eggnog have long histories in both colonial America and the British highlands. Along with these cold weather beverages, strong ales have been a winter staple for a millennia – ish and are the base for wassails, which in turn is the base word for wassailing, as in here we come-a.

There is nothing wrong with the sentimental favorites. They are familiar and punches are low in alcohol – with the stress of the holidays and the pressure of socializing with strangers you wouldn’t want to throw pitchers of martinis down and see what happens.

Mulled wine or served in its virgin incarnation - A Hot Bishop, would be a good choice. BTW, I am not recommending an alcohol free mulled beverage, I just wanted to say Hot Bishop. There is Hot Buttered Rum that really doesn’t have butter but its cousin the Hot Buttered Cow does. While Butter and booze does actually sound like a winning combination to me, more so in bread pudding than a glass - I am not sure I would drink it and pretty sure I wouldn't try to serve something so adventurous at party.

I am not the type of man who would host a party where actual eggnog was served, Martha would and offers up a bourbon based eggnog here. If I were to host a holiday party, I would go with a calvados and cider punch. Calvados is an apple brandy – Historically made in the Normandy region of France, it is hard cider distilled (again historically) in a pot still then aged in oak for 5 or more years. Less expensive than quality brandy, calvados ranks high in affordability, quality and uniqueness, scoring extra points for seasonality.

The Warm Norman

1 Gallon unsweetened Cider – get the good stuff
Optional – cinnamon, ginger, clove to taste

Juice of 3 lemons
4 cups Calvados

Warm juice and spices slowly on stove until warm, 130-160,not hot. Add lemon juice and Calvados.

Serve in mugs.