What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Halloween? Maybe it’s costumes or possibly ghosts and ghouls, but one theme holds true for time of trick and treats: Sweets. Somewhat kicking off the holiday season, Halloween commences the time of year to go all out. “Treat yo’self” has become the mantra in recent years and what is more perfect for that occasion than a sweet liqueur to satisfy your Halloween sugar cravings. Here are a few selections to swap out for Halloween candy Thursday night.
Skip Rock Distillers Nocino Walnut Liqueur
This tasty liqueur — made in Snohomish, Washington — has been making waves and earning awards since 2013. Most recently, one of Skip Rock’s other liqueurs won silver in our 2019 Best of the Northwest for fruit liqueurs and double gold for specialty. This spirit makes the list because it’s deliciously holiday-esque. The walnuts used for the mix are soaked with a spice infusion to create a deeply incorporated flavor profile that finishes with just the right amount of sweet.
Willie’s Distillery Huckleberry Sweet Cream Liqueur
If you’ve got a sweet tooth this Halloween, consider this delightful treat to satisfy it. Made in the tiny town of Ennis, Montana, this craft spirit is sure to impress. The complex sweet and tart flavors from the hand-picked huckleberries are balanced perfectly by the heavy cream body. Enjoy it straight, over ice or mix it in a cocktail for an excellent addition to your favorite cocktail.
Clear Creek Distillery Cherry Liqueur
Cherry is one of the most recognizable flavors in the cocktail world, and cherry liqueurs are a great way to get all of that flavor, without compromising ABV. This Oregon distillery does a fantastic job of creating a sweet, craveable spirit that will make any cocktail recipe better.
Stone Barn Brandyworks Quince Liqueur
Less popular than its cousins, the apple and the pear, the quince is the perfect underdog — known for its unique fruit flavors and texture on the palate. This sweet liqueur, made in Portland, utilizes the under-used fruit and distills it into the perfect holiday treat for adults.
Monashee Spirits Big Mountain Creamer Liqueur
Straight out of the mountains of British Columbia, Monashee Spirits has been making waves in the spirits community. The Big Mountain Creamer is a better take on coffee liqueurs you’ve had in the past — this is no Bailey’s! Ready the coffee or cocoa and give this chocolate-vanilla-almond creation a shot, you won’t be disappointed.
Sidetrack Distillery Shiso Liqueur
You may have never heard of shiso leaf, but you’ve likely tasted it in Japanese dishes and drinks. The popular Asian herb is similar to mint but less bold and more earthy. This Kent, Washington, distillery has figured out how to perfectly represent all the goodness of this herb in one drink. Try out this sweet, delectable spirit with ginger beer, or sip it straight with ice for a pleasant, herbed delight.
