Liquid Sunshine During Winter
For most of us in Chicago, winter conjures up images of icebergs in Lake Michigan, salt trucks, and patio chairs used to reserve parking spaces en la vecindad. But bartenders all over the city are preparing hot Toddy cocktails, Dry January menus, and keeping Coquito drinks on the menu in light of Dia De Los Reyes Magos ending on January 6th. Some of us are out here supporting local restaurants and bars during a time when visits decline due to the frigid weather and “icy” conditions caused by this national administration. Check out Vida Mia’s directory here for a list of local restaurants, bars, and artists to support.
The Routine: Morning Citrus Shot
Winter is also peak citrus season. Citrus thrives in mild, subtropical winter climates especially in California and Florida. You may notice that oranges, lemons, grapefruits, mandarins, tangerines, limes, and kumquats are on sale at your local grocery stores. As a home bartender, I love the array of citrus options to mix and garnish with. Here’s what we’re drinking this season.
Speaking of lemons, I recently learned a health hack from 84-year-old legend Paul Anka: a morning shot of lemon juice and olive oil. Every morning, he takes a shot of olive oil and lemon juice to maintain his energy and voice, a practice inspired by Blue Zone diets. Inspired by Paul Anka, I am that girl now that takes a shot of lemon and olive oil to make me feel alive!
When I'm not using lemons for energy, I'm turning to adaptogens. Jay Shetty and his wife Radhi have a sparkling tea brand. Their canned tea called Juni is made with adaptogens to help the body with reduce stress and nootropics to enhance focus. I worked at home and sipped Juni tropical while listening to John Coltrone. It turns out this was a perfect combination when I’m in the zone!
Slow Drinking This Winter
This winter I am practicing a “Damp January” by periodically going to the bar for an N/A drink, a bubble tea cafe, and having a mindful indulgence with seasonal fruit and quality spirits. This gin cocktail is like a ray of sunshine.
From California to Chicago Cocktail Recipe
2 oz of gin
0.75 oz of fresh lime juice
0.50 oz of orange liqueur (Cointreau, Grand Marnier, triple sec)
1 oz of passion-fruit juice or pulp
To make this a Sober Sunset, replace an N/A gin and use a splash of orange juice instead of the liqueur.
Instructions: Shake ingredients with ice in your favorite cocktail shaker or mason jar and strain in a coupe or martini glass. Serve with a slide of citrus fruit as a garnish. ¡Salud to the road ahead! You got this.
