Eggnog: the drink humorously tied to the notion of grandma being run over by a reindeer.

It’s that festive time of year again! Grocery stores are filling their shelves with eggnog, dividing customers into two groups: those who adore this seasonal favorite and those who can’t stand it.

“Eggnog is enjoyable, but it feels very seasonal to me,” says Deke Dunne, the beverage and creative director at the Allegory and Wild Days bars in Washington, D.C. “It’s typically thick and rich, even though some lighter recipes exist. You don’t really want to consume too much of it. Plus, its distinct flavors remind me of late autumn and early spring, making it feel off-season to enjoy at other times.”

As we approach the time where it’s considered acceptable (for some at least) to indulge in eggnog, let’s explore what this drink is, along with the best ways to enjoy it, should you choose to do so.

What is eggnog and what does it contain?

Eggnog is made from beaten eggs combined with sugar, milk, or cream. It often includes liquor and is typically enjoyed during the holiday season rather than year-round. (“It does have a lot of dairy,” Dunne notes.)

Is eggnog alcoholic?

Generally, eggnog is non-alcoholic when sold in stores. However, it serves as a base for cocktails during the Christmas season. Historical recipes for eggnog, dating back to the 1700s, have traditionally included alcohol.

Should you want to enhance the “holiday spirit” this year, Dunne suggests opting for dark liquors.

“The ideal choices are barrel-aged rums made from molasses or demerara sugar, or a bourbon or scotch aged in a barrel for some time,” he advises. “Cognac can also elevate the drink. Barrel-aged rums crafted from molasses or demerara have a remarkable profile that complements eggnog perfectly, featuring flavors like caramelized brown sugar, maple, cinnamon, nutmeg, molasses, and vanilla—everything you would want in your eggnog.”