Trenton, N.J. – A new survey has found that nearly half of New Jersey adults seriously underestimate the strength of their favorite holiday drinks, with many believing eggnog is no stronger than a light beer.
The statewide results come from a poll of 2,002 adults conducted by Bisnar Chase, which asked respondents how they perceive the alcohol content of popular Christmas cocktails.
In New Jersey, 47% of adults said they think eggnog carries the same strength as a low-alcohol beer, while 50% made the same assumption about mulled wine.
Another 44% of respondents in the state believed hot toddies should count as low-alcohol beverages.
Festive drinks, real confusion
The survey revealed widespread misconceptions about holiday cocktails across the country. Nationally, 38% of respondents said they consider festive drinks as mild as light beer.
One in five adults—20%—believe these drinks don’t count toward drink-driving limits. More than half, 57%, admitted they have unknowingly consumed more alcohol at a holiday party because seasonal beverages “didn’t taste strong.”
Nearly half (46%) said they expect warm alcoholic drinks such as spiked hot chocolates and mulled wine to be weaker than chilled cocktails. When asked about a drink called “Santa’s Milkshake,” 48% assumed it would be alcohol-free.
Misjudging the legal limit
The poll also tested which drinks people thought they could legally drive after consuming. Twenty-three percent of respondents chose spiked hot chocolate, 10% chose a sugar cookie martini, and 7% said a snowball cocktail would be safe.
In a sign of growing awareness, 77% of New Jersey adults said restaurants and bars should label the alcohol strength of holiday drinks to prevent misunderstandings.
Hidden risks behind holiday cheer
The survey underscores a dangerous misconception as the festive season approaches. Legal experts warn that underestimating alcohol content in sweet or warm cocktails can quietly push drivers over the legal limit—leading to arrests, licence suspensions, or lasting criminal records.
The findings highlight how holiday cheer can blur judgment about what’s really in the glass.
Survey shows nearly half of New Jersey adults misjudge the strength of festive cocktails, mistaking eggnog and mulled wine for light beer.