DRINK: Putting a Bow on Booze [Boston]

Haven't yet finished-- or even started-- your holiday shopping? Let me turn your attention, if I may, to alcohol. In the spirit of celebration, these Boston-area shops and distilleries have the perfect libations-based gift to share with a loved one (or keep for yourself.) Go ahead and browse, and bottoms up for holiday cheer!

[photo from The Boston Shaker]

1. The Boston Shaker, Somerville

This small Somerville shop is packed with all the essentials of drink-making, and then some. From the basics for building a great drink (like shakers and bar spoons) to the added touches that truly make a cocktail (a dash of lavender bitters, anyone?), The Boston Shaker has it. Check out their online store or pop in for a tour. You're bound to find a few tools for your favorite home bartender and something special for the drink-lover who thinks they already have it all.

The Boston Shaker
69 Holland Street, Somerville

[photo from Bully Boy Distillers]

2. Bully Boy Distillers, Boston

Since the days of Charles Dickens, nothing says it's the holidays like a good seasonal punch. This year, local small-batch distillers Bully Boy came out with their Hub Punch based on a recovered recipe from the 1800s. Gift it to your favorite booze-buddy with the stipulation that you have to enjoy it together. That's a gift that keeps giving.

Bully Boy Distillers
Sold in multiple locations

[photo from The Cambridge School of Culinary Arts]

3. The Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge

You can give a man a fish and all that, so why not give the gift of grape education through the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts' recreational wine classes? Help a friend confidently navigate the liquor store wine aisle with one of these back-to-basics courses or introduce them to regional grapes and dinner pairings. Consider it an investment in your own personal sommelier for all the holidays to come.

The Cambridge School of Culinary Arts
2020 Mass Ave, Cambridge

There are a plethora of drink-y giftables around the city, so consider these a few brain teasers to get your inner St. Nick going. Happy Holidays!