Local bartenders and mixologists continue to play with ingredients like mad apothecaries, taking advantage of seasonal pantries and Utah’s ever-growing list of local spirits. To try some of these sweet concoctions, you can ski right in. Others are found off-mountain but worth the trek.
The Canyon Cider at The Farm. This chic-yet-casual restaurant is perfectly positioned at the base of Canyons Village at Park City Resort, where sommelier and beverage manager Mike Agricola recommends this cocktail of High West double rye, Laird’s Apple Jack, Domaine de Canton ginger liqueur, house-made ginger syrup, topped with Sam Smith organic apple cider. $12
The Gin Fashioned at the Alta Peruvian Lodge. Locals call the bar here the P-Dog, a lively ski lodge watering hole walking distance from the Collins Lift at Alta, where you can sip bevvies or join in on a shotski. This cocktail features local Beehive Reserve, gin, cherry juice, simple syrup, bitters, orange bitters and sparkling soda, $7.
Distillers Cut Rum Pear Mojito at Current. A must-stop in downtown Salt Lake City, Current serves surprising delightful fresh seafood dishes and equally giddy-making cocktails.
The RSC St. Germain at Royal Street Cafe: At the Silver Lake base of Deer Valley, pull up an Adirondack and refresh yourself with the 2009 Park City Cocktail Contest Winner, consisting of St. Germain elderflower liqueur, Adami prosecco and a splash of soda water served tall over ice with a fresh citrus garnish. $9 (Pictured on the right).
Grand Margarita-Finished with Grand Marnier and Silver Fork Lodge and Restaurant: When the weather allows, sit on the deck with a cozy blanket and enjoy the view of Honeycomb Canyon and its tumultuous, terrific terrain that--if you had a really good day—you skied earlier in the day. The name kinda says it all about this drink. $9.00
The Mountain Derby at Vista Lounge: If the season goes long, you could ski in the morning and watch the run for the roses in the afternoon, sipping this libation of Woodford Reserve, lavender, local Chamomile honey and grapefruit juice. $14
The Ty Ku Royale at Log Haven: Ty Ku is a “healthy” citrus liqueur made from yuzu and other super fruits, including mangosteen, goji berry, honeydew and green tea. At Log Haven, about 10 minutes up the beautiful Millcreek Canyon, enjoy the delicious menu of Dave Jones and this cocktail, made with Ty Ku, Gruet brut and midori.