SAN FRANCISCO – The holiday season is in full swing at Scoma’s Restaurant in San Francisco, where preparations for this year’s batch of eggnog began nearly a year ago.
The recipe takes shape in late January, just after the last holiday celebrations have concluded. To create this festive drink, almost a thousand egg yolks are combined with gallons of heavy cream and about $1,000 worth of vanilla beans, all mixed with sugar and a blend of sherry, brandy, and aged rum. The mixture is kept at a chilly 34 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) and receives a weekly stir over the months as it matures.
Is the wait worthwhile? Customer Phil Kenny certainly believes so.
“It’s a wonderful, specialty drink,” reflects Kenny on Scoma’s unique recipe, which has been refined over recent years to enhance the flavor profile through aging. “This takes eggnog to a different level.”
Kenny and his wife, Laurie, aren’t alone in their appreciation for the holiday drink this year.
“It’s fascinating how a drink once associated with grandparents during the holidays has transformed into a cult favorite here,” commented Gordon Drysdale, Scoma’s culinary director, adding that they never anticipated the strong demand, with some patrons expressing frustration when it was unavailable.
Eggnog has a rich history that traces back to medieval England, where it originated from a drink called “posset,” which consisted of hot milk or cream combined with alcohol and spices. Over the centuries, recipes have diversified, with various non-dairy and alcohol-free versions emerging. However, some recipes—like the beloved eggnog daiquiri at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop in New Orleans—remain closely guarded secrets.
“It’s like a little magic of Christmas,” said Jamie Gourges, marketing manager at the historic bar located in the French Quarter. “We keep our recipes a secret at all times, but I can assure you it’s delicious.”
What Gourges can reveal is that the eggnog is freshly prepared each day from the Friday after Thanksgiving until January 6, known as Three Kings Day or Epiphany. This tradition has been a staple at the bar, which has been around since the early 1700s and is famously associated with the infamous French pirate Jean Lafitte, who conducted his smuggling operations nearby.
Local resident Terry Wittmer considers himself a regular at the popular venue and cherishes the festive atmosphere of the holiday season.
“It tastes like Christmas. There’s a hint of cinnamon, it’s smooth, and you might even get a brain freeze if you drink it too quickly,” Wittmer enthusiastically shared. “I live just a block away, so I come by daily, but I feel extra joyful during Christmas.”
Visitors to the bar, who may come for its signature “purple drank” daiquiri, find themselves drawn to the seasonal beverage as well.
“It goes down easy, that’s for sure,” said Cheryl Abrigo from Florida as she enjoyed her glass.
The festive spirit continues to thrive, highlighting the joy and nostalgia that eggnog brings during the holiday season.
