Debbie’s Holiday Picks

Auchentoshan American Oak Scotch


From the Auchentoshan distillery in the Scottish Lowlands comes a triple distilled single malt whisky aged entirely in American bourbon casks. This unique aging process imparts sweet aromas of vanilla and coconut, complemented by a touch of spice and candied orange peel. Fresh lemon zest adds a lively brightness, balanced by the signature grassiness of Auchentoshan. Light, bright, and full of flavour, this whisky is perfect for sipping on its own or over ice.

Try it in Debbie’s Glasgow Mule Cocktail Recipe:

A vibrant twist on the classic mule, the Glasgow Mule combines the smooth sweetness of Auchentoshan American Oak with the zing of ginger beer and a hint of citrus.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Auchentoshan American Oak
  • 5 oz Ginger Beer
  • ¾ oz Lemon juice
  • Lemon wheel and candied ginger (for garnish)

Method

  1. Squeeze the lime into a Collins glass.
  2. Fill the glass with ice and pour in the Auchentoshan whisky.
  3. Top with cold ginger beer.
  4. Garnish with a lemon wheel and candied ginger.

Deep Roots Maple Cream


‘Tis the season to Love Local, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a bottle of Deep Roots Maple Cream. This indulgent treat is rich, creamy, and infused with the sweet, warm kick of pure maple. Crafted with the distillery’s award-winning Maple Liquor, locally sourced maple syrup, and luscious cream, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday festivities. Enjoy it on the rocks, swirl it into hot chocolate or coffee, or elevate your favourite Christmas cocktail with its decadent flavour.

Try it in Debbie’s Polar Bear Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe:

Warm up your holiday celebrations with a festive twist on the classic Espresso Martini. The Polar Bear Espresso Martini combines the smoothness of Deep Roots Ocean Pearl Vodka, the richness of freshly brewed espresso, and the sweet indulgence of Deep Roots Maple Cream, topped with a sprinkle of peppermint.

Ingredients

  • 1.75 oz Deep Roots Ocean Pearl Vodka
  • 1 oz Fresh Espresso
  • ¾ oz Deep Roots Maple Cream
  • Ice
  • 3 Whole Espresso Beans
  • Peppermint sprinkles (for garnish)

Method

  • In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, espresso, and maple cream.
  • Shake until well-chilled.
  • Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
  • Garnish with espresso beans and a dusting of peppermint sprinkles.

Seventh Heaven Gin


Seventh Heaven Dry Gin is a tribute to the timeless English style of gin, with a distinct Canadian twist. Infused with the subtle aromas of cedar, Quebec Nordic juniper, and Labrador tea, it offers a unique sensory experience. The taste is smooth and well-balanced, with delicate notes of green tea, thyme, and a hint of tropical fruit on the finish. This gin is as versatile as it is refined—perfect for sipping on its own or elevating your favourite cocktail.

Try it in Debbie’s Sparkling Santa Cocktail Recipe:

Celebrate the holidays with a festive twist on the classic French 75. The Sparkling Santa combines the smooth elegance of Seventh Heaven Dry Gin with the bright, zesty freshness of lemon and the effervescence of dry sparkling wine.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Seventh Heaven Dry Gin
  • ¾ oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp simple syrup
  • 4-5 oz Segura Viudas Brut Reserve (or any dry sparkling wine)
  • Ice
  • Lemon twist and fresh cranberries (for garnish)

Method

  • In a cocktail shaker filled halfway with ice, combine the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
  • Shake well until chilled.
  • Strain into a flute glass and top with sparkling wine.
  • Garnish with a lemon twist and a skewer of fresh cranberries.

Bulwark Winter Cider Limited Release


The arrival of the Bulwark Winter Cider is a sure sign the festive season has arrived. This limited-edition cider is an ideal gift for all the special elves on your Christmas list. It’s a well-balanced blend of freshly pressed apples from the Annapolis Valley which are infused with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Its smooth sweet taste and character has a depth of flavour that will make you almost wish winter would keep going a little longer.

Bottega Gold Prosecco


The Bottega Prosecco comes dressed to impress in all its golden holiday splendor. This classic premium quality wine is perfect for ringing in the New Year and will bring a festive touch to any holiday gathering.

The Bottega is fresh and crisp with floral, citrus and pear aromas. It has a bright and lively character with a creamy texture and crunchy orchard fruit on the palate. This Italian bubbly pairs well with raw fish dishes, risotto and prosciutto.

Treat yourself to a New Year’s Eve feast of Bottega Gold Prosecco and a PEI Smoked Salmon and Oyster Bar.

Santa Margherita Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore


The Season of Sparkle gets a bit brighter with a glass of Santa Margherita bubbly in your glass! This is a dry prosecco with aromas of delicate pear, pink grapefruit and apple notes. There are fine lively bubbles on the palate with minerality and bright lemon notes on the finish. The Santa Margherita is produced in the stunning Valdobbiadene region of Veneto, Italy. It offers outstanding value in the world of sparkling wine.

The Santa Margherita has an amazing affinity to pair with a variety of food flavors and textures. This bubbly is a perfect companion to prosciutto, seafood or Christmas brunch frittata. Try adding Santa Margherita Prosecco in the Sparkling Pomegranate Punch recipe.