Drinks: Start with tequila

Getting into the spirit(s) of the season ...

For a little feliz, consider the four-pack of fine Patrón tequilas, which includes a 375-ml bottle each of the popular Patrón Silver, rich Patrón Reposado, still richer Patrón Añejo and the producer's XO Cafe, a coffee-tequila combo. $80.

Nonvintage Ilegal Mezcal Reposado delivers a smoky and smooth liquor, a traditional taste of Mexico from a producer that originally made it in Guatemala. A potent sipper. $67.

Chocolate devotees will find a favorite with Godiva Chocolate Vodka and Godiva Chocolate Raspberry Vodka, easygoing entries in the flavored-vodka genre. $30 each. From Poland, the well-made ZU vodka has herbaceous, bison-grass notes. $25.

Whisky drinkers will get a mouthful and more with The Glenrothes Triple Double, a trio of 100-ml miniatures that offers elegant, aromatic single malt in its 1998 and 1985 vintages, plus the lush Select Reserve. $35.

Toast the 150th anniversary of Campari, the Italian aperitif that's appropriately red and bright. About $20.

Returning to another longtime favorite: Chartreuse, the green, herbal, intense liqueur from the Carthusian monks of La Grand Charteuse in France. The formula dates to 1605. $60. Pernod Absinthe offers a friendly evocation of the once-forbidden, along with a spoon for the sugar drip to awaken the "green fairy." $65.

While enjoying these, dip into the revised edition of "Drinkology" (Stewart, Tabori & Chang, $22.50) by James Waller - ideal for mixologists-in-the-making. Stylish and practical: "The Four Seasons Book of Cocktails" (Sterling Innovation, $17.95) by Fred DuBose and bartenders Greg Connolly, Charles Corpion and John Varriano, loaded with recipes. More specific and very good: "101 Whiskies to Try Before You Die" (Hachette/Headline, $23.95) by Ian Buxton.