Cocktails To Ease the Path From Winter to Spring

Cocktails, in essence, are alcoholic drinks consisting of one or more spirits mixed with other sweet, fizzy or rich ingredients. Sometimes bitters join the party.

The origin of the cocktail and the word itself is as disputed as the perfect recipe for a martini. After a decade-and-a-half of research, spirits historian David Wondrich concluded that the cocktail was popularized, if not invented, in the sprawling Hudson Valley region between Boston, Albany and New York City. (Thirsty for more? Read his addictive historical treatment of the cocktail Imbibe! published by TarcherPerigee.)

The Capital District remains home to some of the most delicious, imaginative alcoholic libations in the country, many of which utilize the products emerging from the exciting craft distillery movement in the region. At last count, there were more than 70 distilleries in New York State, up from just 10 in 2011.

Cocktails, in practice, are a story in and of themselves. The ingredients a bartender selects, the manner in which they are put together, the glass in which they are temporarily housed, the garnish thoughtfully selected to add a dash of whimsy or a note of solemnity, like jewelry. Cocktails tell the tale of a time, a region, the maker’s philosophy about life, without saying a word.

Inveterate story-chasers, writers and editors love a good cocktail. On one of Edible’s cherished editorial outings, the writing staff dined at Henry’s Tap Room in Saratoga. Mary Blair, Edible publisher, is still talking about the cocktail that bar manager Drew Janek whipped up for her from seasonal juices, local ingredients and New York spirits and bitters makers. We went back to Henry’s, plus a few of our other favorite watering holes, for some cocktails to inspire and sustain us on our journey from winter to spring. Cheers, dears!