The tryptophan is making you sluggish, your eyes heavy with satisfaction. You can’t fathom another bite—but how about another sip? A pour of something special is just the ticket, inviting conviviality and extending that post-prandial glow just a little bit longer. From classic Italian amari to a new-school coffee liqueur, these are the bottles our staffers reach for to signal the end of big holiday meals. —Joseph Hernandez, associate director of drinks
At the end of a deliciously long, extravagant meal, my body practically cries out for a digestif. And while the former cook in me loves a classic shot of Fernet, a holiday calls for something a little more special. This is where the Brat-green bottle of Faccia Bruno Centerbre living on my kitchen counter comes in. This spirit is so herbaceous, it’s almost like having an after-dinner salad. —Carina Finn, commerce editor
Bitter or bittersweet? Medicinal or citrusy? Whatever your preference, there’s a bottle for you.
Amaro Averna, from $35
Years ago, when my dad would visit me in college, we would go to dinner in Boston’s North End of Boston, afterwards stopping somewhere for an espresso and amaro. It felt so special, adult, even a little European. These complex, bitter, herbaceous sippers offer such a wide range of experiences to end the meal. My go-to now is Averna—she is sweet, plenty enough for me—with a subtle touch of bitterness and citrus. Typically I drink it over ice with an orange twist but I sometimes serve it with soda water, an olive and lemon twist. It’s a treat I can slowly sip on the couch in my comfy pants. —Mallary Santucci, culinary producer
Forthave Black Nocino, from $30
I’m a great cook but a terrible bartender. My dinner parties feature wine, but end with a singular spirit that can be enjoyed neat or mixed with coffee. For that purpose, Brooklyn-based Forthave’s Nocino is a spectacular finish. This Brooklyn-based distiller’s walnut liqueur is made with locally foraged black walnuts and gently sweetened with wildflower honey from upstate New York. The candied nut and warm baking spice flavors really encourage lingering around the table. Sitting with family and friends for hours after the meal has ended, that’s the kind of fullness I crave every holiday season. —Ali Inglese, senior director, content production
Making your negroni or spritz more interesting is as easy as buying a bottle of Forthave Red.
Strickland Hollow Apple Brandy, price varies on availability
In my family, it’s become tradition to reach for apple brandy after The Big Meal. Strickland Hollow’s rendition follows pot still methods found in classic Calvados, but highlighting New York heirloom apples. Aged in American oak barrels, this aromatic sipper pairs wonderfully with that thought-I-was-done-but-guess-not slice of pumpkin pie. If the brandy is sold out, check out their Pommeau, too. —Hana Asbrink, deputy food editor
J. Rieger & Co Caffè Amaro, $45
I’m not really a dessert person (and rarely save room for it anyway) but after a big meal I pour myself a nip or three of J Rieger & Co’s aromatic Caffè Amaro. Made in Kansas City with locally roasted single-origin coffee, it’s a touch sweet but bitter enough to feel like it’s actually aiding digestion. —Emily Farris, senior commerce writer
Accompani Mari Gold, $30
If Mari Gold’s bright and cheery flavors of Seville orange peel, citron, and orange blossom are the party, then the lingering notes of cinnamon and gentian root feel like the gentle, glowing flush of a night well-spent. Like a perfect party guest, this amaro doesn’t overstay its welcome, instead leaving you with a honey-sweet finish. —Karen Yuan, culture editor