Holiday Drink Battle Royale: Eggnog vs Cider

Illustration: Madalyn Drewno – The Sentry

Eggnog for the win

Opinion by Adrian Toca

The glorious seasonal drink called eggnog is a Christmas delicacy. The only thing more Christmas than the ‘nog is the milk the jolly fat man himself drinks while on his delivery route. Eggnog is the hearty and rich drink that fills the belly and is just what the population needs at such a jolly time. It can be served warm or cold, virgin or spiked, but is always 100 percent delicious.

Christmas is not only the perfect time to enjoy the drink, but is the perfect drink for everyone, as there have been myriad of vegan and dairy-free options added each year.

Christmas isn’t just a time of year; it’s a feeling in the soul. People all around the world have their traditions to get into the Christmas mood, and seasonal treats are a great way to do just that. The spices involved with eggnog just scream “Ho Ho Ho” and should be able to keep just about anyone from turning into a Grinch or Scrooge. Cinnamon and nutmeg are the basic spices that complement every carton of eggnog and both of which exude lovely aromas that gently caress the nose. They are quintessential smells that are part of the season’s beauty. Then, there is the rich full-bodied flavor of the milk, cream, and eggs that create a unique, sweet, and always memorable taste.

The issue with apple cider is that it’s too general. If it’s on the menu, the assumption is that it’s cold out, which in Colorado, can be anywhere from October to April. While cider can also be versatile because it is a spike-able drink that can be served warm or chilled, it doesn’t inspire any feelings or moods, nor is it representative of any event. Cider is single and always ready to mingle. Eggnog is committed and loyal, meaning Christmas will always be there with it.

Cider always wins

Opinion by Tara Perticone

Apple cider makes people smile and brings a sense of warmth. While consuming a Christmas dinner, there’s nothing more satisfying than having a refreshing drink on the placemat while enjoying the company that the holidays bring.

The good thing about apple cider is that it isn’t just for Christmas. This delectable drink can be consumed on any type of holiday (although Christmas and Thanksgiving do seem to be the main times). If eggnog were the choice drink, then it should be served at more times of the year than just on Christmas. This is just one of the beauties of apple cider—having it adapt perfectly to any special occasion makes it the ultimate drink.

Cider is an adaptable drink, as it can be enjoyed cold or warm, and it is even sold in alcoholic form for the more party-oriented atmospheres. There’s also a variety of flavors including: apple, grape, pear, strawberry/lime, and many other fruit combinations.

Sure, apple cider may not have the same aroma as eggnog, but that doesn’t mean that the taste is anything less than amazing. As the cool, sweet apple-tasting liquid pours down the throat, only happiness can be found. Apples do have a refreshing quality to them and can only leave a person saying, “Ahh.”

Another bonus is that apple cider doesn’t coat the throat like eggnog does. It’s refreshing and not heavy, unlike something that contains eggs. The ingredients list also means that there is a higher probability that everyone will be able to enjoy the drink—apples, cinnamon, sugar, and water are items that are enjoyable to many. So, apple cider, or any cider for that matter, is something for everyone. Even those who are lactose intolerant can enjoy this drink.

In the end, cider isn’t only the most versatile drink, but also the best option for the holiday season.