SPIRITED AWAY
Jenn Abergel of Quench Bar recos local spirits to take your February 14 cocktails next level
Mixologist Jenn Abergel and her partner, Shona Ryan, started Quench Bar mid-pandemic to provide virtual mixology classes and cocktail kits. “In Toronto, we’re so fortunate to have extensive access to many fantastic cocktail bars and locally made spirits,” says Abergel. “During a pandemic, so many uncertainties enter our day-to-day lives, but building a cocktail is an activity you can enjoy virtually with friends, family or colleagues — and having fun right now is so important.”
Northern Temple Vodka, Nickel 9 Distillery “This vodka has a natural sweetness to it that sets it apart from other liquors, as it’s made with 100 per cent Ontario apples. It’s perfectwhether straight-up or shaken in a cocktail.” Signature Gin, Reid’s Distillery “Gotta love a family-run business! Reid’s signature gin is made with Canadian wildforaged botanicals, which give it an extra-smooth finish.”
Cocktail Add-Ons,
Miss Pippa’s “This flower shop/wine café carries many ingredients you can use to mix amazing cocktails. Our go-tos include their blueberry-lavender jam to elevate gin and vodka spritzers.” Single-Barrel Canadian Malt Whisky, Mill Street Brewery
“Did you know that Mill Street makes more than beer? We love this whisky because the hints of chocolate, caramel and clove make it so
smooth — it’s perfect enjoyed straight-up, on the rocks or in a manhattan.” Spirit of York Aquavit, Spirit of York Distillery Co.
“Spirit of York does a fantastic job of keeping the classic Nordic flavours of caraway and dill and also adds its own botanicals, which give the aquavit a tasty citrus edge. The distillery also donates bottles of sanitizer to medical centres and people in need.”