To lean into the spiced flavor profile, you could opt for aged Bacardi Gold Rum or Captain Morgan spiced rum here, which would also lend a flattering mask to particularly undrinkable red wines.

We had one undrinkable ale, but the rest hit the mark. As usual, all should be available on local store shelves. Our photos show what the beers look like, and we note our favorite at the end.

WSJ's Charles Passy pours Fernet-Branca, considered by some to be a "slap in the face," on Lunch Break with Tanya Rivero. Photo: Will Foster ...