Choosing Alcoholic Beverages for Your Holiday Party

If you're planning to throw a party this holiday season, you're probably wondering what type of alcoholic beverages to buy. If you try to please everyone's needs - beer, wine, mixed drinks, eggnog - you could end up spending hundreds just on the drinks!

Fortunately, you can have a fun bash and serve alcoholic drinks without breaking your budget. Just pick one of these options:

Seasonal beverages: Most people who imbibe tend to drink the same type of alcoholic beverage all year long, whether it's wine, beer or whiskey. Get in the holiday spirit by choosing seasonal drinks like eggnog or hard apple cider. It may not be your guests' first preference, but it will put everyone in a merry mood.

Holiday punch: Afraid eggnog might be a turnoff to some folks? Try a happy holiday punch instead. Just pick your favorite punch recipe and spike it with a liquor that complements the flavor of the recipe. Brandy and rum are usually two good choices. Do an Internet search for holiday punch recipes if you don't already have a favorite.

Wine only: If your party is a little on the fancy side, consider serving wine only. Wine gives everything an upscale feel, and most of your guests will appreciate it - especially if you serve it with dinner. To please the most people, offer a red, white and a blush. Or, if you prefer, you could limit it to just red and white.

Beer only: Depending on the party, serving only beer can be very appropriate. Serve both a light beer and a heavier lager to appeal to everyone's taste buds. If you must limit it to one type of beer, a light beer is generally the most widely accepted. You, however, know your guests the best, so follow your instincts.

White beverages: Known as "white bar," this consists of only clear alcoholic beverages. White rum, vodka and white wine are staples of this type of bar. You still have a selection of alcoholic beverages, but you limit the variety you need to purchase. Mixers should also be white, such as 7-Up and club soda.

Champagne: There's nothing more festive than champagne at a holiday party! Opt for a sparkling white wine to keep your costs low. You can also stretch your budget by serving a champagne punch.