Get Into The Holiday Spirits

by Matt Dye

With the holiday season in full swing, there’s always a reason to get festive. And one of the best ways to get in the holiday spirit is by gifting and enjoying holiday spirits, but what spirits are you looking for? 

“Premium tequila is kind of top dog right now,” Katelyn Young of Hokus Pokus points out. “People are aiming now for zero additive, organic, ‘good for you’ type spirits. Stuff that just feels good in your body, so you’re not packing yourself with sugars and dyes.” 

With that in mind, Young recommends the 123 Organic Tequilas, better known as the “uno dos tres” brand, or Tapitio Tequila, which has been around since the 1940s, but only in America for the last dozen years, slowly growing its reputation. 

If tequila isn’t your spirit of choice, Young also recommends a good bourbon, of which Hokus Pokus has quite a few. For those who might be wanting to impress an out-of-state friend or relative, she suggests going local, specifically with the J. T. Meleck varieties, as well as Whiskey Tree from Seven Three Distilling Co. 

Hokus Pokus has other premium high-end bourbons, and Young is always looking to bring in other unique batches you can’t find anywhere else in town. 

If you’re hosting a gathering, ready-made cocktails are extremely popular, with everything from Double Espresso Martinis to Hot Toddy’s to pre-made Old Fashioneds.  

There are also a number of mixes for the perfect drink if you’re looking to regulate the amount of spirits imbibed. Craftmix has a number of flavors to try, from holiday standards like Apple Cider and Hot Chocolate to something a little more refreshing in the Cranberry Vanilla mix.  

If you’re looking to go the non-alcoholic direction or to try some mocktails, THC-infused drinks are one of the more intoxicating options out there.  

But if you’re looking to avoid any type of “illicitness,” one of the more popular drinks is mushroom-infused, made with organic adaptogens, not they psychedelic variety. These drinks, such as the ones made by Hiyo, are sparkling tonics that reduce stress while boosting mood, giving imbibers a feeling called “the float.” 

However you look to tackle the holidays, Hokus Pokus has the variety to cover even the most discerning taste on your holiday gift list as well as every type of cocktail imaginable to set your holiday party off right. And if you’re not sure, stop by for a taste. 

“We definitely encourage trying before buying,” Young says. “So if we’ve got a bottle cracked, by all means. That’s what’s special about this store. In most cases, you can try before you buy.” 

Hokus Pokus is located at 1915 Country Club Road. Check their Facebook page to learn about future in-store tastings. Hokus Pokus offers custom gift baskets and complimentary gift wrapping in store with the purchase of a gift bag.