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Contrary to popular belief, vinegar isn’t just for salad dressing. We love it in everything from savory soups to sweet desserts — and, yes, even co*cktails. Old school drinking vinegars, also known as shrubs, became popular in the 1600s and have seen a major resurgence in recent years. (Before we go any further, the term shrub refers to a syrup made of fruit, sugar, and vinegar.) Of course, you can totally play with flavors by adding different herbs, spices, and ingredients like honey and vanilla. In short, shrubs are a great way to elevate your co*cktail game. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make. Ready to channel your inner mixologist? Here, eight spiked shrubs to try this spring.
Confederados co*cktail
Our favorite way to ring in spring? A new pair of sunnies and a Confederados co*cktail. This cachaça, watermelon shrub (made with white balsamic) and lime cooler is as pretty as it is splendid to sip on a warm afternoon.
Bourbon Peach Smash
Thirsty Thursday just got a lot better thanks to this peach shrub (made with red wine vinegar), bourbon, orange bitters, and ginger beer. Muddled peaches and mint give this beverage a burst of bright, juicy flavor.
Beet Shrub, Lemon, and Whiskey co*cktail
This co*cktail doesn’t miss a beet (sorry, we couldn’t resist). But seriously, homemade beet shrub and lemon juice add zest, while angostura bitters and whiskey turn this into a delicious drink that’s sure to impress even the most particular co*cktail connoisseur.
Strawberry Balsamic Shrub
Strawberries and balsamic are a classic combo—and for good reason. This drink takes it up a notch with muddled basil, a splash of sparkling water, a squeeze of lime juice, and an ounce (or two) or gin.
Bourbon, Balsamic, and Cherry Shrub co*cktail
Sweet, tart, and oh so tasty! Balsamic, cherries, honey and vanilla remind us of a decadent dessert—but aren’t at all cloying. Bourbon and lemon-lime soda are a brilliantly balanced finishing touch in this co*cktail.
Blackberry-Ginger Shrub Rum co*cktail
Meet your new go-to springtime co*cktail. A blackberry, ACV (apple cider vinegar), balsamic, and rum-laced take on a Moscow Mule, this not-too-sweet beverage is a sublime way to end the week—or start the weekend.
Tangerine Mint Shrub
Planning a BBQ or rooftop picnic? Zesty citrus and cool mint make this the perfect sunny day refreshment. This irresistible shrub recipe calls for champagne vinegar, tangerine juice, and an oleo-saccharum, made with tangerine peels, mint leaves, and turbinado sugar.
Sparkling Rhubarb Shrub
Rhubarb often gets a bad rap, but we love it in pies, tartes, and pretty pink drinks. The tartness of the shrub (rhubarb, white wine vinegar and cane sugar) pairs perfectly with the tequila.
