Charlotte is a city with a lot of residents proud of their home, whether native or adopted. When I travel home for the holidays or see friends in other cities, I love to bring local gifts that you can’t find anywhere but here. Everyone knows there are plenty of great local beers to share, but not enough is said about North Carolina spirits. We picked our five favorites to gift this holiday season, all available at ABC stores. —Kristen Wile

Cardinal Barrel-Rested Gin, $34.95
Southern Artisan Spirits makes a good young bourbon called Turning Point that almost made this list, but the distillery’s aged gin is still our favorite in their product line. The herbal notes of Cardinal’s gin get some heft in this barreled version, which can be used in place of whiskey for interesting twists on whiskey cocktails.

Damn Fine Liqueur Chocolate, $19.95
This chocolate bomb is fantastic on its own, mixed into hot cocoa, or stirred into a boozy cocktail. Made by Durham Distillery, Damn Fine’s chocolate liqueur is made with real pieces of Videri Chocolate out of Raleigh. You can also purchase mocha or coffee flavors.

Conviction Bourbon, $43.45
One of the best things about this bourbon is its story. Southern Grace Distilleries is run out of an old prison in Mount Pleasant, hence the bourbon’s name. The bourbon is young and hot, but has earned recognition in national competitions.

Doc Porter’s Vodka, $29.95
One of Charlotte’s earliest distilleries, Doc Porter’s makes its vodka from North Carolina wheat. The distillery also sells a gift box with the vodka and bloody mary mix, pancake mix, and maple syrup for $75 if you’re looking for something a little more substantial.

Krupnikas Winter Cranberry, $35.95
The most festive of the bunch, this is our favorite option for a holiday gift, too. The cranberry edition of a honey spiced liqueur adds an extra kick to ciders or winter flavors to an old-fashioned. The special release from Durham-based Brothers Vilgalys Spirits can still be found at a few ABC stores using the product search. The original version of Krupnikas is just as good.

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