12 Best Alcohol Advent Calendars of 2023
Updated: Oct. 11, 2023
Making spirits bright takes on a whole new meaning with these alcohol Advent calendars. We found picks for liquor lovers, the hard seltzer-obsessed, wine aficionados and beer fans.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
It’s beginning to look a lot like Advent calendar season—aka the most wonderful time of year when every single brand imaginable breaks out their treat-filled take on the countdown to the holidays. Though we love our coffee Advent calendars and Christmas chocolate countdowns, sometimes it takes something a little stronger to get us in the holiday spirit—and take the edge off because, well, this time of year can be a lot to handle.
Enter alcohol Advent calendars. Whether you’re a hard-core craft beer fanatic, at-home mixologist or believe the best way to end the day is with a glass of vino, these boozy countdowns offer a little something fun for everyone. Because we take Advent calendar season very seriously, we tried (almost) every pick on this list to narrow down the absolute best options. Behold, our top recommendations for wine, beer, whiskey, tequila, cocktails and beyond.
Speaking of, check out this jam-packed Advent calendar for delectable December mornings.
What is an alcohol Advent calendar?
An alcohol Advent calendar is like a regular Advent calendar—but for the 21+ crowd. These boozy countdowns typically include 12 or 24 windows filled with different sips. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur, wine buff, tequila lover or prefer something hoppy, there’s an option for everyone. Here are the best alcohol Advent calendars of 2023.
Best Wine Advent Calendar
There’s a reason this 12 Nights of Wine Advent calendar from Vinebox sells out every year. Every detail from the stunning packaging to the tasting experience instantly whisks you away to wine country. I’ve tested the Vinebox wine Advent calendars for two years now, and the 2023 alcohol Advent calendar countdown blew me away.
I got to choose between the cozy or chill collection: A mix of warm, cozy reds (my pick) or a mix of whites, rosés and reds best served chilled. Not only is this the best treat after a long winter day, but the one-glass-a-night approach made me savor every sip like I was enjoying an expert-led wine tasting in my own home. Bonus: There’s a 24 nights of wine option to keep the festivities going all December long.
Best Beer Advent Calendar
Whether you’re an exclusive IPA-lover or prefer something a little less serious, there’s a brew for everyone inside this 12-day beer Advent calendar—or as I like to call it, a brewery tour in a box. My partner prefers IPAs and I enjoy pretty much anything served in a fun glass. We were both impressed by every single microbrew included.
Not only were the range of beers tasty, they introduced us to new brews from across the country without having to leave our home. Take it from us and host your own “hoppy hour” during the 12 nights leading up to Christmas with the help of this alcohol Advent calendar. Pro tip: Keep the box in the fridge so your brew is chilled to perfection.
Best Liquor Advent Calendar
For cocktail lovers who enjoy a mix of everything, this liquor Advent calendar has everything you need to celebrate the spirit(s) of the holiday. While some alcohol Advent calendar picks only offer 12 nights of booze, this liquor countdown goes the extra mile with 24 spirit-filled days (or nights).
As a budding mixologist, I enjoyed testing my cocktail-making skills by mixing up something new with each bottle of booze. Or, skip the cocktail and pour it on the rocks—it’s the holiday season after all. Pro tip: Collect all 24 bottles and play liquor roulette with your guests at your long-awaited holiday party.
Best Cocktail Advent Calendar
Craving something a little more sophisticated? Look no further than Kentucky’s own Woodford Reserve 8 days of spirits countdown. A blend of cocktail mixers ready to pair with your favorite bourbon or whiskey plus bitters to make your own merry drinks await. Despite not usually going for bourbon- or whiskey-based drinks, I was pleasantly surprised by the goodies inside.
Everything comes together to create just what you want in a winter drink: Strong, spiced and easy to sip on all night long. Plus, the bitters let you experiment with your own cocktails well past the holiday season.
Best Whiskey Advent Calendar
Whiskey-lovers, listen up. Explore the Lost Art of Distillation: The Amber Kingdom inside Flaviar’s renowned whiskey Advent calendar. Not only will you look forward to sampling 24 types of whiskey from around the world, but you’ll also score two Glencairn glasses, a tasting journal, information on each whiskey and a free one-year Flaviar membership for year-round whiskey tastings.
As one of the best alcohol Advent calendars, this pick comes highly recommended by Senior Shopping Editor, Daria Smith, (aka our resident whiskey connoisseur) who tried the Flaviar whiskey Advent calendar. With whiskey represented from all over including Ireland, Australia and Japan, this is the countdown for adventurous spirits.
Taste of Home readers get an exclusive $10 off the calendar with code TOH10.Â
Best Tequila Advent Calendar
Did someone say, Christmas margaritas? This tequila Advent calendar is here to spice up winter nights and holiday parties alike. Whether you prefer your tequila on its own or in a festive cocktail, enjoy surprises from Don Julio, 1800 and Casamigos during the countdown to Christmas.
Best Hard Seltzer Advent Calendar
Would it really be an alcohol Advent calendar roundup without a hard seltzer option? This 12-day hard seltzer Advent calendar is filled with a dozen of the best-rated hard seltzers. Enjoy classics like Truly and White Claw plus new bubbly discoveries like Happy Dad and Boulevard. Trust us, you won’t want to share this boozy treat.
Best Canned Cocktail Advent Calendar
ICYMI: canned cocktails are different than hard seltzers. Unlike a hard seltzer, a canned cocktail contains distilled spirits like vodka or tequila. This canned cocktail Advent calendar fits the bill for convenient, ready-to-drink cocktails this winter.
This box includes highly-rated canned cocktail brands, from High Noon to the Ketel One Vodka Spritz. The 12 days of Christmas have never tasted buzzier. Before you indulge, load up on these tasty food gifts.
Best Canned Wine Advent Calendar
Because you can’t have too many wine countdowns to choose from, this canned option from Maker Wine offers a little something different. Explore 12 nights of premium canned vino from female- and minority-led wineries. Not only will you enjoy sampling some of the best reds, whites, rosés and sparkling wines, but each vino tells a different story waiting to be explored. Cheers!
Best Hanukkah Alcohol Advent Calendar
Celebrating Hanukkah? City Brew Tours has you covered with their Hoppy Hanukkah beer Advent calendar. This box contains eight hand-selected craft beers from independent breweries. This Advent calendar contains winter surprises including brewery swag and chocolate. Join the nightly virtual tastings included with your purchase for an interactive tasting experience. Then, discover more delicious alcohol gifts.
Best Sparkling Wine Advent Calendar
Sometimes what you really need in an alcohol Advent calendar is something bright and bubbly. That’s where this sparkling wine countdown has your back whether you’re hosting a holiday party or prefer December evenings paired with Prosecco. This box takes festivities to a higher level with fizzy favorites from Moscato to Brut and Cuvée. Christmas mimosas, anyone?
Best DIY Alcohol Advent Calendar
Here’s an adult-friendly Advent calendar you can enjoy year after year. This DIY alcohol Advent calendar includes 24 slots to hold your favorite liquor. Personalize it with your last name, a fun phrase or whatever your heart desires to make it extra special. It makes a cute winter gift too. Bottoms up!
