Eggnog is a traditional holiday drink made with cream, egg yolks, sugar, and sometimes brandy or rum. It originated from an English drink called a posset and became popular in the 19th century. George Washington enjoyed it with rum, rye whiskey, and sherry. Today, it is commonly bought at supermarkets and liquor stores.
Eggnog is a libation traditionally served during the holiday season between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. It is made with cream or milk, egg yolks and sugar. Those who imbibe may choose to add brandy or rum to their drink. Those who drink this beverage are routinely expected to drink to each other’s health, although after a few glasses of spiked eggnog, most will drink anything.
Eggnog, which translates to “egg inside a cup,” actually has some history behind it. It came from an English drink called a posset. The posset contained eggs, cream, and wine or other spirits. It was only a matter of time before it took on a life of its own.
This drink became popular in the early 19th century and was mostly enjoyed by the upper classes. During that time in London, only those who were well off could afford to drink a glass of milk, let alone serve it at parties. Revelers liked to mix it with a little booze to give it an extra “kick”.
In the United States, eggnog was mostly enjoyed by those who owned dairy cows. There were quite a few American dairy farmers at the time, so it was enjoyed by people from all backgrounds. Since rum was relatively cheap and very easy to find, it was often mixed into the drink.
No one is quite sure how eggnog became the drink of choice for holiday revelers, but it has been noted that even two hundred years ago, party guests would concoct vast batches of concoctions that their guests could enjoy throughout the evening. George Washington himself is said to have enjoyed eggnog on many occasions. His preference was to drink it with rum, rye whiskey and sherry. When he drank eggnog there were very few people who could keep up with him – or who would even try.
Today, most people don’t make their own eggnog. They buy a carton or case at their local supermarket or liquor store and pop it off once their guests arrive. It’s an affordable and delicious way to toast good health and good friends.
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