Celebrate the Season with the ‘Shorter Days’ Non-Alcoholic Cocktail
The winter holiday season is often filled with festivities, merriment, and, let’s not forget, an abundance of alcoholic beverages. From festive party punches to bubbly champagne toasting the New Year, this time of year can be particularly difficult for individuals who are abstaining from alcohol or limiting their intake. However, as the demand for non-alcoholic options continues to grow, innovative mixologists are crafting delightful alternatives that allow everyone to partake in the celebration.
Ariel Dunitz-Johnson and Ever AFter
Ariel Dunitz-Johnson, the visionary founder of the alcohol-free bar and bottle shop Ever AFter, has embraced the challenge of creating a welcoming space for those seeking non-alcoholic options. Located in the vibrant flower shop Colibri, Ever AFter has become a sanctuary for individuals looking for a third place to socialize without the pressure of alcohol. Dunitz-Johnson’s mission is to expand this concept into a stand-alone bar, bottle shop, and event space, fostering a community that celebrates sobriety and inclusivity.
The Inspiration Behind ‘Shorter Days’
One of the standout recipes from Ever AFter is the ‘Shorter Days’ cocktail, a refreshing highball that encapsulates the essence of the cooler, darker seasons in the Pacific Northwest. This drink not only serves as a fantastic holiday sipper but can also be pre-batched for larger gatherings, making it a versatile addition to your holiday recipe collection. Dunitz-Johnson’s creativity shines through this recipe, which features locally sourced alcohol-free spirits and mixers that elevate the drinking experience without the need for alcohol.
Crafting the ‘Shorter Days’ Cocktail
The ‘Shorter Days’ cocktail combines a harmonious blend of flavors that evoke the spirit of winter. Below is the recipe you can easily recreate at home to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy evening by the fire.
Ingredients
- 2½ oz For Bitter For Worse Eva’s Spritz
- 1½ oz pineapple juice
- ½ oz Wilderton Lustre
- ¼ oz Portland Syrups ginger syrup
- ¼ oz lime juice
- Club soda, to taste
Method
To prepare the ‘Shorter Days’ cocktail, follow these steps:
- Fill a tumbler or Collins glass with cracked ice.
- Add all ingredients except the club soda, and stir until combined.
- Top with a splash of club soda.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a dried citrus wheel or a slice of lime or orange.
This blend of ingredients creates a drink that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. The combination of ginger syrup with the brightness of pineapple juice and the herbal notes from Wilderton Lustre creates a unique profile that rivals any traditional cocktail.
Making Your Own Ginger Syrup
While the recipe calls for Portland Syrups’ ginger syrup, Dunitz-Johnson offers a simple method for making your own at home. To create your own ginger syrup, simply:
- Simmer equal parts water and sugar with chopped and peeled ginger in a saucepan for 15 minutes.
- Strain the mixture to remove the solids.
This homemade syrup can be stored in the refrigerator and used in various drinks, adding a spicy kick to your non-alcoholic cocktails.
Navigating Sobriety During the Holidays
For many, the winter holiday season can be a challenging time to maintain sobriety. Alcohol often plays a central role in social gatherings, making it crucial for individuals to have options that allow them to participate fully without compromising their choice to abstain. Non-alcoholic cocktails like ‘Shorter Days’ serve as a perfect solution, providing a festive beverage that feels special and celebratory.
Moreover, the increasing availability of alcohol-free spirits, mixers, and canned drinks means that those who choose to abstain no longer have to settle for sugary sodas or water. Instead, they can enjoy sophisticated concoctions that mirror the complexity and flavor of traditional cocktails. This shift in the drinking culture is essential for fostering a more inclusive atmosphere where everyone can celebrate together.
Conclusion
The ‘Shorter Days’ non-alcoholic cocktail stands as a testament to the creativity and inclusivity within the beverage industry. As we navigate the winter holiday season, it’s vital to provide options for all individuals, ensuring that celebrations can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their relationship with alcohol. With recipes like Dunitz-Johnson’s ‘Shorter Days,’ we can raise our glasses—filled with delicious, alcohol-free drinks—and toast to a joyful and inclusive holiday season. Cheers to a celebratory season that embraces everyone!
