Eggnog Ranks #1 Among U.S. Holiday Drinks in 2025

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, December 12th 2025 at 18:41 GMT by Food & Wine

The Most Popular Holiday Drinks in America, 2025 – A Quick‑Reference Guide

Every year, the holiday season sparks a flurry of questions among bartenders, housewives, and casual drinkers alike: What’s the most‑driven beverage? What trend is poised to dominate the party scene? A recent Food & Wine study, “The Most Popular Holiday Drinks in America 2025,” brings the answers to light. By pulling together data from a national survey, sales trends, and expert commentary, the article charts the drink‑driving forces behind Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s Eve, and the general holiday mood that stretches from December 1st to New Year’s Day.

Below is a 500‑plus‑word synopsis that covers the core findings, the drinks that topped the charts, and the reasons—both cultural and logistical—why these beverages are resonating with Americans.

1. Methodology: How the Numbers Were Gathered

The Food & Wine report is built around a survey of 4,000 U.S. households conducted between October 2024 and November 2024. Respondents were asked which holiday drinks they purchased most often, how frequently they consumed them, and why they favored certain options. To complement the survey, the team consulted retail sales data from the Beverage Marketing Corporation, and interviewed mixologists from several high‑profile New York City cocktail bars. These multiple sources provide a solid cross‑section of consumer behavior, retail trends, and professional insight.

2. The Drinks that Reigned

Eggnog tops the list by a substantial margin. Nearly half of respondents said they either purchase or brew eggnog in the weeks before Christmas. The beverage’s creamy texture and festive flavor profile—vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon—have made it a perennial holiday staple. Food & Wine quotes industry insiders who say that the “comfort factor” of eggnog is the main driver: it’s something people associate with family gatherings and a shared sense of tradition.

Hot chocolate – both the simple version and the more indulgent, liquor‑infused variants – came in a close second. Respondents cited its versatility (“you can make it with or without alcohol”), its ease of preparation (“just melt chocolate and add milk”), and the fact that it’s “the perfect cozy drink for a snowy night.” The survey noted a surge in “hot chocolate stations” set up at holiday parties and in retail stores, indicating an emerging trend.

Mulled wine and spiced apple cider both rank among the top five. Mulled wine’s traditional roots in European winter festivities align with the broader “holiday‑inspired” vibe. The survey revealed that respondents prefer the “warm, spicy, and slightly sweet profile” that makes mulled wine a perfect bridge between hot chocolate and alcoholic cocktails. Spiced apple cider, on the other hand, offers a non‑alcoholic option that still feels festive; it’s often sold in bulk in supermarkets and prepared in bulk at home.

3. The Spirits Behind the Scenes

While the survey focused on beverage categories, the article dives deeper into the spirits that people favor during the holidays. Whiskey on the rocks and pre‑mixed rum cocktails have become “go‑to” choices for last‑minute entertaining. Retail sales data show a spike in single‑serve whiskey bottles and cocktail mixers between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. In one highlighted interview, a New York City mixologist explained that “the convenience factor is huge – people don’t want to waste time mixing; they want instant satisfaction.”

Champagne and sparkling wine also maintain a strong presence, especially for New Year’s Eve celebrations. A surprising 22 % of respondents mentioned they purchase Champagne “as a gift” for friends and family, further cementing its status as a holiday‑time luxury.

4. The Rise of “Inclusive” Holiday Drinks

A noteworthy trend identified by the article is the growing popularity of non‑alcoholic mocktails and holiday‑spiced coffee/tea drinks. Approximately 12 % of respondents indicated they purchase or brew mocktails to cater to guests who abstain from alcohol. These beverages often feature fruit purées, herbal infusions, and festive garnishes. Food & Wine cites the rise of the “non‑alcoholic cocktail movement” – a trend that is expected to continue post‑holiday season as more consumers seek healthier, lower‑calorie options.

The same respondents who enjoy hot chocolate also report indulging in holiday‑spiced coffee and tea (e.g., peppermint mocha, chai latte). These drinks offer an aromatic, caffeine‑boosted alternative that can pair with holiday pastries or desserts.

5. Cultural Factors Shaping Holiday Drink Preferences

The article argues that a mix of tradition, convenience, and modern health consciousness is shaping the holiday drink market:

• Tradition: Eggnog, mulled wine, and Champagne are steeped in holiday lore. They offer a sense of continuity that many people crave during an otherwise fast‑paced year.
• Convenience: Pre‑mixed spirits, single‑serve bottles, and ready‑to‑drink options (e.g., spiced cider in cartons) appeal to hosts who want to focus on food or hosting instead of elaborate prep.
• Health Consciousness: Lower‑calorie mocktails, sparkling water‑based drinks, and coffee/tea alternatives attract health‑savvy consumers who still want a festive experience.
• Social Media: Instagram‑ready drinks such as pomegranate spritzes or “milkshake” cocktails gain popularity because they look visually striking. This visual factor is reflected in the “Instagram‑friendly” category noted in the article.

6. Quick Takeaway for Holiday Hosts

• Eggnog is king: Keep a recipe ready and stock up on the base ingredients (milk, eggs, sugar, spices). A “make‑it‑later” batch can be refrigerated and whisked just before serving.
• Hot chocolate station: Offer a range of toppings (whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon, chocolate chips) so guests can personalize.
• Mulled wine: Prepare a large pot a few days ahead; it actually tastes better after the spices have had time to meld.
• Spiced apple cider: Use a small kettle or large saucepan; add cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise for an extra aroma.
• Mocktails & drinks for non‑drinkers: Stock sparkling water, citrus juices, and fresh fruit; these can be combined with a splash of grenadine or a few drops of bitters to create a festive “non‑alcoholic” option.
• Finish the night: Champagne or sparkling wine is still the standard for New Year’s. Consider offering a “champagne mocktail” for guests who want something sparkling but non‑alcoholic.

7. Future Outlook

The Food & Wine article concludes that while classic drinks like eggnog and mulled wine will remain staples, the future of holiday beverage consumption will see a broader spectrum of options. The mix of “quick‑serve” alcoholic drinks and “inclusive” non‑alcoholic beverages is expected to grow. Moreover, sustainability concerns might push consumers toward plant‑based milk options in hot chocolate and alternative grains in eggnog, aligning with the broader shift toward eco‑friendly product choices.

For anyone planning holiday parties in 2025, the data suggest preparing a balanced beverage menu: one that honors tradition while providing modern conveniences and inclusive choices. That balanced approach is the recipe for a memorable, stress‑free holiday season.