In this series, we take a closer look at well-known cocktails. Get to know the history behind these classic drinks as well as where you can find them in the DMV area. This week’s Drinks Decoded takes on Eggnog - just in time for your holiday drinking.

The Basics
A seasonal drink, eggnog is a dairy-based beverage made with milk, cream, sugar, whipped raw eggs and a spirit - typically rum, bourbon, brandy or cognac. Although the drink contains raw eggs, the process of creating the drink (aging over a period of time in low, refrigerated temperatures) and the addition of alcohol (at least 20% of the drink must be alcoholic) will kill any bacterial pathogens.

The Bars
From the traditional eggnog to fun twists on the classic, check out these DC bars serving up the Yuletide favorite during the holiday season:

Bayou Bakery
The New Orleans style coffee bar and restaurant offers its Bayou-nog each season: eggs cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and cream. Order the non-alcoholic version or get the Naughty Nog with the addition of bourbon for $7. Eggnog enthusiasts can also take home Bayou-nog by the quart to enjoy during Christmas festivities for $16. (901 Pennsylvania Ave, SE; 202-664-5307)

Maketto
For an Asian twist on the traditional nog, try Maketto’s Mala Five Spice Egg Nog, made with rum, condensed milk, pandan extract and five-spice powder steeped in coconut milk for $12. (1351 H St, NE; 202-838-9972)

Tico
Michael Schlow’s Mexican/Spanish influenced restaurant will have a Sweet Potato Nog this season. Made with sweet potato-infused cream, egg yolk, vanilla bean, nutmeg saffron and dry spiced rum from local distillery Cotton & Reed, it’s available through the season for $12. (1926 14th St, NW; 202- 312-1400)

Photo via Flickr user Wheeler Cowperthwaite