Shrub It Out

the story

We created this cocktail to celebrate the shrub, one of the foundational ingredients in modern cocktails. Shrubs, also known as drinking vinegars, have a rich history in America that dates back to the colonial era. Originally derived from the Arabic word "sharāb," meaning “to drink,” shrubs were brought to America by European settlers and adapted to the agricultural bounty of the New World. In the 17th and 18th centuries, American colonists used shrubs as a practical solution for preserving fruits before refrigeration existed. Fresh fruits like berries, apples, and citrus were combined with sugar and vinegar to create a tangy, syrupy mixture that could be stored for months. Vinegar acted as a natural preservative while enhancing the fruit's flavor, making shrubs both a flavorful ingredient and a means of food preservation.

We’ve combined a raspberry shrub with vodka and sparkling wine to allow the fruit to shine through in this cocktail. Housemade blackcurrant syrup adds depth, and basil adds a crisp herbal note to complement the fruitiness of the shrub. And to top it off, we add a bright sparkle with a splash of bubbly. We’ve chosen our producers represented in this drink to give a nod to pioneers (see below).

the producers

St. George Spirits - California

St. George Spirits, founded in 1982, is one of the pioneers of the American craft distilling movement. St. George Spirits is located in Alameda, California, in a historic WWII aircraft hangar overlooking the San Francisco Bay. Its story began with Jörg Rupf, a German immigrant and one of the first craft distillers in the United States. Rupf was inspired by the centuries-old tradition of European eau-de-vie production but wanted to bring a uniquely American spirit to the craft. Starting with fruit brandies made from California's abundant produce, he laid the foundation for what would become a groundbreaking distillery.

As the craft spirits movement grew, so did St. George's reputation for pushing boundaries. Lance Winters, a former brewer with a love of innovation, joined the team in 1996 and eventually became master distiller. Under his leadership, St. George expanded its portfolio to include a wide range of inventive spirits, such as their terroir-driven gins, distinct vodkas, and complex single malt whiskey.

St. George is renowned for its fearless creativity and attention to detail. Their spirits are crafted using traditional copper pot stills, and the team sources only the finest ingredients—whether it's freshly picked California fruit or botanicals for their gins. Each spirit reflects the distillery’s ethos of artistry and experimentation.

Une Femme Wines - California

Une Femme Wines was born out of a desire to celebrate women and their contributions to the wine industry and beyond. Co-founded by Jen Pelka and Zach Pelka, the brand’s mission is to honor women-led businesses, support female-driven causes, and create exceptional wines that inspire connection and joy.

The name “Une Femme,” French for “A Woman,” reflects the founders’ belief in the power of women and their stories. Une Femme Wines partners with women winemakers and vineyards worldwide to craft sparkling wines that embody elegance, inclusivity, and empowerment. Each bottle is designed to uplift and celebrate the women who are making an impact in their fields.

In addition to its commitment to quality, Une Femme Wines stands out for its philanthropic approach. A portion of proceeds from every sale supports charities and organizations that benefit women, such as Dress for Success, which empowers women to achieve economic independence. Une Femme’s sparkling wines are not only delicious but also symbolic of celebration, resilience, and progress.