Whether you're personally a fan of the new administration or not, we can all agree on something—we're going to need more booze! Whether it's to celebrate our political dreams becoming a reality or to drown away our sorrows, American booze selections are a fine choice, especially with the incoming tariffs on many Canadian and Mexican products. So here we have it, nine amazing, domestically-produced booze selections to sip on for the next four years!

With these choices, you won't need to worry about the prices shooting through the roof. Sorry Canadian whisky and Mexican tequila lovers. We're just not sure yet how much your favorite international bottle will be affected.

Sotol

If you're craving a margarita, but just can't afford that tequila anymore, or just want to support something domestically distilled, look no further than sotol! 

What is sotol? Sotol is a unique spirit made from the sotol plant, also known as "desert spoon," which grows in the wild in northern Mexico and parts of the southwestern U.S. Crafted traditionally, sotol is made by roasting the plant's heart (piña) in underground pits, fermenting it, and distilling it, resulting in a smoky, earthy, and herbal flavor with hints of citrus and grass. Unlike tequila and mezcal, which are made from agave, sotol comes from a different plant and reflects the rugged terroir of its origin. Often enjoyed neat or in cocktails, sotol offers a distinctive alternative for those looking to explore beyond tequila and mezcal.

Sotol Recommendations

Desert Door, a craft distillery in Texas, offers a remarkable lineup of sotol spirits that showcase the versatility and uniqueness of the wild-harvested sotol plant. Their Desert Door Texas Sotol 80 Proof is a smooth, approachable spirit with subtle earthy and citrus notes, perfect for sipping or mixing in cocktails. The Desert Door Oak-Aged 100 Proof Texas Sotol adds depth with rich oak and caramel flavors, aged to perfection for a robust experience. Desert Door Texas Gold Sotol 100 Proof delivers a bold yet refined profile with a balance of smoky and sweet flavors, ideal for connoisseurs. Additionally, their Desert Door Texas Sotol Conservation #3 is a limited-release bottle crafted to support conservation efforts, combining exceptional quality with a commitment to preserving the land that nurtures this unique spirit.

Canadian Whisky VS US Whiskeys

Canadian whisky and American whiskey differ in production and style. Canadian whisky is typically lighter and smoother, often made with a mix of grains like corn, rye, barley, and wheat, and it can include flavoring whiskies. It’s aged at least three years in barrels, giving it a mellow character. American whiskey, including bourbon and rye, is usually bolder and sweeter, made with a specific grain mash (like at least 51% corn for bourbon) and aged in new charred oak barrels. These differences in ingredients, aging, and barrels create distinct flavors for each style.

Canadian Whisky Alternatives

If you enjoy the light and smooth taste of Canadian whisky, there are several American-made options to try. Basil Hayden's Bourbon is mild and approachable with light spice and sweetness, resembling the taste of the juice from the north. Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon smooth, balanced flavor with hints of honey, caramel, and light fruit, makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the approachable style of Canadian whisky. Michter's US*1 American Whiskey skips the traditional new oak barrel, resulting in a softer, caramel-forward flavor. Koval Single Barrel Bourbon has a fruity and slightly floral profile, and Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon blends wheated and traditional bourbons for a soft, sweet taste. These whiskeys provide the smoothness and subtle flavors fans of Canadian whisky love.

So while the prices of imported goods may or may not go up, keep in mind that there are always alternatives. But guzzle down those tequila-based margaritas and stock up on that Canadian whisky just in case!