Shillong's dramatic seasonal changes call for equally varied drinking choices. From warming winter whiskeys to refreshing monsoon cocktails, discover the perfect spirits for every season in Meghalaya's capital.
Winter (December-February)
When temperatures drop to 5-15°C, these spirits will keep you warm:
Winter Warmers
- Single Malt Scotch: Glenlivet 12yr or local Khasi Hills Whiskey
- Spiced Rum: Try Old Monk with hot water, lemon, and spices
- Kiad: The stronger local rice liquor, best served warm
- Irish Coffee: With homemade cherry wine from Sohra
Best Venue: Cloud 9 Lounge's fireplace seating
Christmas Specials
- Mulled Wine: Made with local cherry wine and spices
- Eggnog: BNDEY Wines's special recipe with bourbon
- Hot Toddy: Whiskey, honey, lemon, and cinnamon
- Peppermint Schnapps: Perfect for holiday cocktails
Must-Try: Polo Towers' Christmas cocktail menu
Pro Tip
Visit in January for the Shillong Winter Spirits Festival where local bars and restaurants create special seasonal menus. Our BNDEY Wines store stocks limited-edition winter releases from December-February.
Spring (March-May)
As flowers bloom and temperatures rise (15-25°C), lighter spirits come to the fore:
Spring Sippers
- Gin & Tonic: With local Luminescent Gin and fresh lime
- Cherry Blossom Cocktails: Featuring Sohra cherry wine
- Light Whiskeys: Japanese or local craft varieties
- Sparkling Kyat: The rice beer's freshest spring batches
Best Venue: Cafe Shillong's garden terrace
Festival Favorites
- Shillong Jazz Festival: Craft cocktails and premium spirits
- Wangala: Traditional Garo rice beer celebrations
- Baisakhi Specials: Punjabi-inspired whiskey cocktails
- Local Craft Beers: Seasonal spring releases
Don't Miss: Police Bazar's spring tasting events
Monsoon (June-September)
Heavy rains call for bold flavors and warming spirits:
Rainy Day Remedies
- Spiced Rum: With hot ginger tea (called "saw" locally)
- Peated Whiskey: The smokiness complements damp days
- Hot Sake: Perfect with monsoon street food
- Herbal Liqueurs: Jägermeister or local herbal infusions
Coziest Spot: Ri Kynjai's covered verandas
Monsoon Music Festival
- Local Craft Cocktails: Featuring indigenous ingredients
- IPA Beers: The bitterness pairs well with rainy moods
- Warming Shots: Try BNDEY Wines's special "Monsoon Medicine"
- Spiced Cider: With a local fruit wine twist
Hot Tip: Waterproof flask recommended!
Autumn (October-November)
Crisp air and clear skies call for balanced drinks:
Fall Favorites
- Bourbon: Neat or in autumnal cocktails
- Pumpkin Spice Liquors: Limited editions at BNDEY Wines
- Apple Brandy: Local and imported varieties
- Amber Ales: Perfect for cool evenings
Best Experience: Lakeside bonfire drinks at Umiam
Shillong Autumn Festival
- Craft Spirit Tastings: Local distillers showcase new products
- Harvest Cocktails: Using seasonal ingredients
- Wine Pairings: With local Khasi cuisine
- Whiskey Masterclasses: At participating bars
Pro Tip: Book tasting sessions in advance
About the Author
Priya Khonglah is a Shillong-based mixologist and seasonal spirits expert. She curates BNDEY Wines's seasonal collections and hosts popular tasting events throughout the year.
