Glögg is what my Nordic relatives call mulled wine—it’s the Norwegian beverage of Christmas and is associated with all the warmth and goodness of the season. Made with red wine, sugar, spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves and bitter orange, Glögg is served hot and generally accompanied by raisons, blanched almonds and Ginger Snaps. I’m told that the TV commercial most associated with the season in Norway is Coke’s, “Open Happiness.” The spot beautifully and warmly shows commonly violent cartoon mice, and customarily unforgiving parking enforcers, having a heart. It’s the Glögg of :30 spots.
The Christmas drink for the Irish side of my family—Tricolor: Green creme de menthe, with white vodka and gold whiskey- perfect for relaxing in front of a roaring fire. The treats —minced pies: Usually enjoyed by the entire family after Midnight mass. Served for breakfast on the great day itself, are Irish sausages and black pudding… so you’re stuffed before you even get to dinner. And the Irish TV commercial that evokes the warm feelings of Christmas is Guinness of course—a stunning and peacefully snowy ad with friends, a horse, a lone wolf and the Guinness building.
Here in the San Diego AdEase office it’s the season of Nog. Alcoholic eggnog was once a drink consumed only by the English aristocracy (Helen), but eventually made its way to America sometime in the 18th century. Now all the plebeian AdEase folk partake in the Nog—eggs, heavy whipping cream, whole milk, sugar, brandy, dark rum, vanilla and nutmeg—and then a renewed commitment to the gym starting in the New Year. Though the Hallmark talking book sent to the soldier from his child back home makes me choke up, the commercial that I most look forward to in the holiday season is the classic Budweiser. Yes, a TV commercial for a can of domestic beer is my most nostalgic tie to the season. Cheers!
AdEase
Mood: Festive
