Bourbon Wassail

Yes, I know that this is a drink that usually conjures up thoughts of Christmas. In all fairness, "Here We Come A-Wassailing" is a Christmas Carol. And funny enough...until I went on Wikipedia tonight to make sure I spelled it correctly...I wasn't aware the drink was actually named after the act of wassailing. 

But with as cold and brutal as this winter has been, I have been finding reasons to drink it often. Even now, in March. Dear Old Man Winter, you have seriously overstayed your welcome. Sincerely, errrrybody. But, while it is still chilly out, I cannot recommend this yummy drink enough. There are apparently quite a few versions around but I plan to share the one from my sweet friend Lyss. That is the one that got me hooked after all. I only made a few adaptations, but I will share both and you can choose your version. 



Here is Lyss's recipe. This is for a large crowd, so feel free to half it if you want it for a smaller group!

And here is my version. The first time I made it, I used more pineapple juice, as I am a pineapple groupie. And it saddens my heart to say this, but it was too much. It was just like you were drinking warmed up pineapple juice. It was still good, but tinkering with it did the trick and this was my favorite by far. 

4 cups apple cider
4 cups oj
2 cups pineapple juice
1 can apricot nectar
1 can guava nectar
large orange w/cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
1 cup bourbon

Simmer everything but the bourbon for about an hour and a half and then add it in and simmer for another half an hour. You could also just add to glasses per taste and keep the large pot non alcoholic. I used sparkling cider for this, but you can use any. I think next time I may try it with a spicy wine. and perhaps omit the bourbon. I have also heard that this is yummy with spiced rum and I bet it is. 

Spring is almost here, but if this weather keeps up...I may end up enjoying a bit more of this. 

Thanks again for the recipe, Lyss! It has become one of my favorites!
4 comments on "Bourbon Wassail"
  1. I'll take all the warm drinks. Winter can go any time.

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  2. I am all about the warm drinks. It is 10 degrees right now. :( Looks and sounds delicious!

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  3. I love pineapple too, but I see what you mean about too much being like warm pineapple juice and nothing more. I'll have to try it! maybe with... 2 cups of bourbon...

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