What is a Shrub?

Shrubs, also known as drinking vinegar, have been around for centuries but have recently gained popularity in the cocktail world.

A shrub is a concentrated syrup made with fruit, sugar, and vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is the most common base for shrubs, but other types of vinegar can be used as well. Herbs and spices can also be added to create unique flavor combinations.

One of the best things about shrubs is their versatility. They can be enjoyed with still water or soda, used in various mixed drinks, or even as a marinade for meats. Shrubs are also a great way to use up any extra fruit that may be going bad. The vinegar helps to preserve the fruit, giving it a longer shelf life.

Shrubs have a sweet and acidic taste, which makes them a great addition to cocktails. They add depth and complexity to a drink and can be used in place of traditional mixers like simple syrup or citrus juice. Shrubs can also be enjoyed on their own as a non-alcoholic beverage. Overall, shrubs are a great way to add flavor and depth to any drink.

History of Shrubs in Drinks

Shrubs, also known as drinking vinegar, have a long and rich history dating back to the 17th century in England.

At that time, shrubs were used as a way to preserve fruits and vegetables for consumption during the off-season. The vinegar in the shrub acted as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of the fruits and vegetables.

The popularity of shrubs as a beverage ingredient began to rise in the late 17th century in London, where they were used as a way to make water and unpalatable spirits more drinkable. The acidity of the vinegar in the shrub helped to balance out the sweetness of the fruit, creating a refreshing and flavorful beverage.

Over time, the popularity of shrubs in drinks waned, as other beverages such as soda and juice became more widely available. However, in recent years, shrubs have experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly in the United States and Canada.

Today, shrubs are often used as an ingredient in cocktails, adding a unique and complex flavor profile to the drink. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a refreshing and healthy alternative to sugary beverages.

The Role of Vinegar

Vinegar is a key ingredient in making shrubs, also known as drinking vinegar.

It provides the acidity that balances the sweetness of the fruit and sugar. While apple cider vinegar is the most commonly used base for shrubs, other types of vinegar can also be used to create unique flavor combinations.

Balsamic vinegar, for example, adds a rich sweetness to the shrub, while red wine vinegar provides a tangy flavor. Champagne vinegar, on the other hand, has a light and delicate taste that pairs well with fruit and herbs. White balsamic vinegar and white wine vinegar are also popular choices for shrubs, as they have a milder flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.

Distilled white vinegar can also be used in a pinch, but it lacks the complexity and depth of flavor that other vinegars offer. It’s best to use high-quality vinegar to ensure that the shrub has a well-rounded taste.

When making a shrub, it’s important to balance the acidity of the vinegar with the sweetness of the fruit and sugar. Too much vinegar can make the shrub too tart, while too much sugar can make it too sweet. It’s a delicate balance that requires some experimentation to get right.

Shrub Drink Recipes

Shrubs are versatile and can be used to make a variety of delicious drinks. Here are a few recipes to try out:

1. Blackberry Shrub Cocktail

This cocktail is perfect for summer evenings. To make it, mix 1 ½ ounces of gin, 1 ounce of blackberry shrub syrup, and ½ ounce of lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with fresh blackberries and a sprig of mint.

2. Sparkling Cranberry Shrub

This mocktail is perfect for holiday parties. To make it, mix 2 ounces of cranberry shrub syrup, 4 ounces of sparkling water, and a squeeze of lime juice in a glass filled with ice. Stir well and garnish with fresh cranberries and a slice of lime.

3. Pineapple Rum Shrub

This tropical cocktail is perfect for sipping by the pool. To make it, mix 1 ½ ounces of rum, 1 ounce of pineapple shrub syrup, and ½ ounce of lime juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a slice of pineapple.

4. Bourbon Peach Shrub

This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a cool fall evening. To make it, mix 1 ½ ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of peach shrub syrup, and a dash of bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water and garnish with a slice of peach.

5. Kombucha Tonic

This healthy drink is perfect for when you want something refreshing and energizing. To make it, mix 4 ounces of kombucha with 2 ounces of tonic water in a glass filled with ice. Stir well and garnish with a slice of lime.

These are just a few examples of the many shrub drink recipes out there. Experiment with different shrub flavors and mixers to find your perfect combination.