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Dry Land Distillers promise “cream of the crop” in Fourth Annual ‘Nog Off

Dry Land Distillers is spicing up the holidays in Longmont with the return of the annual eggnog competition.
Matt Maenpaa
Matt Maenpaa

Celebrating its first holiday season in the new location, Dry Land Distillers is spicing up the holidays in Longmont with the return of the annual eggnog competition.

Locals looking for a festive and boozy libation will be the judge for six eggnog creations at the craft distillery. Reigning ‘nog champion DJ Reimer of Erie’s 24 Carrot Bistro is squaring off against entries from  Niwot’s Farow Restaurant, Longmont Meals on Wheels, Flavor of India, Longs Peak Pub and the competition’s first community entry from local liquor aficionados the Distilling Dames.

“It was really flattering to win last year. I’m not an eggnog drinker myself, so hopefully my luck will last for another year,” Reimer said.

Winner of the ‘Nog Off earns a year of bragging rights and their champion eggnog featured at Dry Land’s tasting room throughout the holiday season, according to Dry Land Distillers Brand Manager Kelly Dressman.

Members of the voting public can drop by the tasting room Thursday through Saturday to sample flights of the six competing recipes, served in two ounce flights. The eggnog flights will be listed numbers 1 through 6 to eliminate any potential bias, Dressman explained, and judges will complete a paper ballot ranking their choice from first to third. 

“Because we want it to be as fair as possible and a blind taste test, we won’t disclose whose recipe has which flavor profile or ingredients,” Dressman said.

For those daunted at the prospect of drinking 12 ounces of eggnog in a single sitting, Dressman encouraged would-be imbibers to bring a friend to share the holiday spirit.

Though the recipes are under wraps, Dressman was excited about the flavors on offer. From apricot and fig, cardamom and Earl Grey tea to more traditional flavors like nutmeg and cinnamon, the competition runs the gamut.

“There are a lot of really fun takes on eggnog,” Dressman added.

Dry Land's recipes from previous years will make a return to the menu once the competition ends. The winner of the Fourth Annual ‘Nog Off will be announced on Dec. 17 at Dry Land Distillers’ holiday market.