News & Events

By in Blog Comments Off on Mad River Distillers Welcomes Moira Horan as On-Premise Sales Manager for Massachusetts

Mad River Distillers Welcomes Moira Horan as On-Premise Sales Manager for Massachusetts

Warren, VT – March 4, 2024 – Mad River Distillers, a leader in the craft distilling industry known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Moira Horan as On-Premise Sales Manager for Massachusetts and Connecticut. Horan, who previously worked with Mad River Distillers in 2017, returns to the team in a pivotal management role after gaining valuable experience and insights at Fever Tree and Tanteo Tequila.

Moira Horan is a seasoned professional with a proven track record of success in the beverage industry. During her time at Fever Tree and Tanteo Tequila, she developed a deep understanding of the market dynamics and established herself as a key player in driving growth and brand recognition. Her expertise in sales strategy, customer relations, and market penetration will be invaluable to Mad River Distillers as the company seeks to expand its presence and influence in the Massachusetts and Connecticut markets.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome Moira back to the Mad River Distillers family," said Maura Connolly, Co-founder of Mad River Distillers. "Her energy, expertise, and passion for the spirits industry are exactly what we need as we look to strengthen our position in the on-premise marketplace. Moira's unique ability to connect with customers and drive sales will be instrumental in achieving our growth objectives in these key regions."

In her new role, Horan will be responsible for leading sales initiatives, cultivating relationships with key accounts, and developing valuable partnerships that will enhance Mad River Distillers' visibility and market share. Her appointment marks a significant step forward in the company's strategic expansion efforts and underscores its commitment to bringing high-quality, artisanal spirits to a wider audience.

“I’m excited to return to the Mad River Distillers team which is a brand based on authenticity and sense of place,” said Moira Horan. “I look forward to being a part of the brand building in the on-premise in Massachusetts and Connecticut."

Mad River Distillers is confident that Horan's return and her leadership in the Massachusetts and Connecticut markets will usher in a new era of growth and innovation for the company.

About Mad River Distillers: Mad River Distillers is a craft distillery based in Warren, Vermont, dedicated to producing high-quality, small-batch spirits with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Founded in 2011, the distillery has garnered acclaim for its diverse portfolio of award-winning products, including whiskey, rum, and brandy. Committed to the craft and community, Mad River Distillers continues to push the boundaries of traditional distilling while honoring the rich heritage of Vermont's distilling legacy.

For further information, contact Mad River Distillers at info@madriverdistillers.com

By in Media & Events Comments Off on Mad River Rye Finished in Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Barrels.

Mad River Rye Finished in Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Barrels.

The Mad River Valley Meets Napa Valley

In the almost-famous Mad River Valley, five villages and two ski areas abut rolling farmland along the flank of Vermont's Green Mountains. And since 2014, the Mad River Valley has become known for whiskey, among other grain-based libations.

Mad River Distillers ferments, distills and bottles a variety of whiskeys at their Warren, VT-based farm for distribution in New England, New York and California. One of the perennial best sellers is Revolution Rye, a whiskey distilled with roasted 'chocolate' rye from the Northeast, which adds a complex and aromatic cocoa/mocha note to the spicy nature of the organic rye grains.

A collaboration between the distillery and Caskforce

In 2018, Nick O’Connell approached Mad River Distillers with the idea for a unique collaborative whiskey, and the distillery jumped at the opportunity. O’Connell is the founder of Caskforce, a Boston-based retailer that curates cask- finished whiskey. He had his eye on some Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon barrels and thought a potential pairing between the wine barrels and Mad River Distillers Revolution Rye would work well together. Silver Oak ages their Cabernet in toasted American oak barrels, which both complements and contrasts the charred American oak in which the whiskey is matured.

O'Connell sourced the barrels and shipped them to Vermont, where Mad River Distillers filled the previous red wine-filled casks with aged Revolution Rye, a unique style whiskey with a rare 100 percent rye mashbill. With only five barrels aged in the Mad River Distillers rickhouse, the new limited release showcases the strengths of both the wine and the whiskey.

“I THOUGHT THE DARK BERRY AND WHITE PEPPER NOTES OF THE SILVER OAK CABERNET CASKS WERE THE PERFECT COMPLEMENT TO THE RICH COCOA NOTES OF MAD RIVER’S RYE WHISKEY,” O'CONNELL NOTED.

Mad River Distillers head distiller Alex Hilton agreed; ”The Silver Oak Cellars barrels heightened the roasted notes of the chocolate rye in our mashbill, while adding a lush velvet smoothness to the mouthfeel of the whiskey.”

The Mad River Rye Whiskey Finished in Silver Oak Barrels is priced at $54.99 per bottle and available beginning Friday, November 20 in Massachusetts and Vermont.

In MA:

November 20 - Dec 3 Exclusive at at Post Road Liquors in Wayland, Mass., and Upper Falls Beverage in Needham, Mass.

December 4th Onward Post Road Liquors, Wayland, Upper Falls Beverage, Needham, Julio's Liquors, Westborough. Check back for more retailers.

In VT: November 20 Onward

Mad River Taste Place, 89 Mad River Green, Waitsfield, VT 05673. Open Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm

Mad River Distillers, 137 St. Paul St. Burlington, VT 05401. Open Wed-Sun 2-6 pm

By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Raise a Glass to Fall: Our Favorite Autumn Cocktails

Raise a Glass to Fall: Our Favorite Autumn Cocktails

As the days get shorter here in Vermont, and we trade warm summer afternoons for crisp mornings and colorful foliage, our cocktail cravings veer to the familiar flavors of the season. Bright and refreshing summer drinks make way for the deeper flavors and warming aromas of freshly picked apples, maple, cinnamon, and other baking spices. The spirits behind Autumn cocktails can make just as much of a difference when it comes to seasonal sipping. Straight Bourbon, Burnt Rock Bourbon and Revolution Rye naturally complement fall ingredients, with notes of oak, smoke and spice. Our aged First Run Rum brings richness and warmth to cocktails made with cider and maple. Mad Apple Brandy puts the flavor of freshly picked apples front and center, while our Maple Cask Rum and Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey offer another distinctly Vermont way to embrace the season. 

Whether you’re looking for something crisp enough to sip on a sunny foliage-filled day, or rich enough for a chilly evening by a cozy fire, here are some of our favorite cocktails to raise a glass to this Fall.

AUTUMN SOUR
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1/2 oz. of Cream Sherry (Lustau Solera Sherry)
-1/2 oz. of lemon juice
-1/2 oz. of simple syrup
-1 Tbsp. of Pumpkin Butter
-4 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake the contents and strain them over a large ice cube in a rocks glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an orange peel.

AUTUMN SWEATER
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Burnt Rock Bourbon
-1 oz. of lime juice
-1 oz. of cinnamon syrup
-1/2 oz. of Fernet
-lime wheel garnish

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

MALENA
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1 oz. of Revolution Rye
-1 oz. of Campari
-1 oz. of Ruby Port
-1-2 dashes of Orange Blossom Water
-orange peel
-grated cinnamon

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled. Strain into a large rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel. Top with a little bit of ground cinnamon.

Trickster cocktail on a table

TRICKSTER
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of First Run Rum
-1/2 oz. of Orange Curaçao
-3/4 oz. of honey-ginger syrup
-1/2 oz. of lemon juice
-2 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a shaker. Stir and shake up. Serve over a large ice cube. Add ginger for garnish.

BAD APPLE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of Mad Apple
-3/4 oz. of Maple Cask Rum
-1/2 oz. of Allspice dram
-1/4 oz. of cinnamon syrup
-1/4 oz. of vanilla syrup
-1/2 oz. of lime juice
-3/4 oz. of beet juice
-2 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a highball glass. Garnish with mint sprigs, a dehydrated apple slice, and a gummy worm.

HARD PRESSED
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of Maple Cask Rum
-1 oz. of fresh apple cider
-2 dashes of Angostura Bitters
-cinnamon stick

Instructions
In a shaker, combine ice, Maple Cask Rum, Angostura bitters and apple cider. Shake until frosty, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an orange peel.

Maple Mule next to a bottle of Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey

MAPLE MULE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey
-1/2 oz. of fresh squeezed lime juice
-ginger beer
-lime wheel garnish

Instructions
In a copper mug with ice, add the Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey, then lime juice. Top with ginger beer. Add a lime wheel for garnish.

Fall doesn’t have just one flavor, so your cocktail glass doesn’t have to, either. From crisp apple and warming cinnamon to rich maple and baking spice, the season offers plenty of inspiration for experimenting behind the bar. Reach for your favorite Mad River Distillers spirit, consider adding some ingredients from a local orchard or farmers market, and raise a glass to everything we love about the Autumn season in Vermont, one delicious sip at a time.

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on September 28, 2026.

By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Less Labor, More Cocktails: 20 Easy Drinks for Labor Day

Less Labor, More Cocktails: 20 Easy Drinks for Labor Day

Labor Day weekend is supposed to be a chance to take a pause from work, and enjoy the last stretch of summer. At Mad River Distillers, we love a well-made craft cocktail, but well-made doesn’t have to mean time-consuming. Labor Day is the perfect excuse to keep things simple, including your cocktails, so you can spend less time doing and more time relaxing. We’re taking the “labor” out of cocktailing with a collection of easy drinks that deliver plenty of flavor, without measuring a dozen ingredients or washing a sink full of barware.

Here are our top 20 easy cocktails for Labor Day that don’t take a lot of work to enjoy:

VANILLA RUM SHRUB HIGHBALL
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-1 oz. of a fruit or berry shrub (we used Tait Farm Raspberry Shrub)
-club soda

Instructions:
In a highball or collins glass, add the Vanilla Rum and shrub. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda. Express a lemon peel over the top, then add as a garnish.

PINK GRAPEFRUIT HIGHBALL
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz. of Rum 44
- Fever-Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit
- 3-4 dashes of Strongwater Virtue Bitters

Instructions:
Add the Rum 44 to a highball glass. Fill the glass with ice. Pour the FeverTree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit to fill the glass. Add a few dashes of Virtue Bitters. Add a fresh rosemary sprig as a garnish.

CLASSIC OLD FASHIONED
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1/4 oz. of Simple Syrup
-2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
In a mixing glass, add all ingredients with ice. Stir for about 15-20 seconds. Strain contents into an old fashioned glass over a large cube. Add an orange peel for garnish.

BOULEVARDIER
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-3/4 oz. of Cocchi di Torino
-3/4 oz. of Campari

Instructions:
Combine in a mixing glass over ice. Stir briefly. Strain contents into a Double Old Fashioned glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

BLOOD ORANGE & BASIL BOURBON SMASH
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1 oz. of Simple Syrup
-2 oz. of Blood Orange Juice

Instructions:
In a shaker, add all ingredients with ice. Shake for about 8-15 seconds. Strain contents into a glass over fresh ice. Add a basil leaf for garnish.

Maple Mule next to a bottle of Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey

MAPLE MULE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey
-1/2 oz. of fresh squeezed lime juice
-ginger beer

Instructions:
In a copper mug with ice, add the Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey, then lime juice. Top with ginger beer. Add a lime wheel for garnish.

BURNT ROB ROY
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Burnt Rock Bourbon
-3/4 oz. of Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth
-3 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
Chill a coupe glass. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass. Add ice, then stir for 20-30 seconds. Strain and serve up in the chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.

VERMONT VACATION
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Maple Cask Rum
-1 oz. of Contratto American Vermouth
-2 dashes of Bourbon Bitters

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well, then strain into a martini glass and serve up. Garnish with Luxardo cherries.

MAPLE CASK RUM OLD FASHIONED
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Maple Cask Rum
-1/2 oz. of simple syrup
-2-3 dashes of Blackstrap Bittercube Bitters

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and stir. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Add an orange twist as garnish.

KINGSTON NEGRONI
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of PX Rum
-1 oz. of Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth
-1 oz. of Campari

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice. Stir a few times to incorporate ingredients. Strain contents over fresh ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with an orange peel/swath.

Glass filled with Rye Gold Rush cocktail on a bar counter

RYE GOLD RUSH
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Revolution Rye
-1 oz. of Honey Simple Syrup
-1 oz. of fresh squeezed lemon juice

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker, and shake. Strain contents in a glass, over a large ice cube. Add a twist of lemon for garnish.

BOOZY ARNOLD PALMER
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz Straight Bourbon
-1 oz Lemon Juice
-3/4 oz Black Tea Honey Syrup

Instructions:
In a mixing glass, add all ingredients with ice. Stir for about 15-20 seconds. Strain contents into a Highball glass over fresh ice. Top off with bubbles. Add a lemon peel for garnish.

CAMILLO’S MISTRESS
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-3/4 oz. of Cappelletti
-3/4 oz. of Dolin Blanc

Instructions:
Combine ingredients in a mixing glass over ice. Stir briefly. Strain contents into a Double Old Fashioned glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

OLD PAL
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of Revolution Rye
-1 oz. of Dolin Dry Vermouth
-1 oz. of Campari

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass over ice, stir briefly. Strain into a small wine glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

RUM 44 DAIQUIRI
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of RUM 44
-1 oz. of Lime Juice
-3/4 oz. of Simple Syrup

Instructions:
Combine ingredients in a shaker over ice. Shake briefly. Strain contents into a chilled Coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

CAIPIRINHA
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Maple Cask Rum
-1/2 oz. of Demerara Syrup
-Half a lime (squeezed)

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a Double Old Fashioned glass. Stir and top with crushed ice.

MAD APPLE MULE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Mad Apple
-Ginger Ale
-1 dash Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients. Serve over ice in a highball glass. Garnish with lemon.

1794
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Revolution Rye Whiskey
-1.5 oz. of Campari
-1.5 oz. of Carpano Antica Vermouth

Instructions:
Stir Rye, Campari and Vermouth in a mixing glass with ice. Strain contents into a cocktail glass over a large cube. Garnish with an orange swath.

Rye Manhattan on a table in front of straw and corn

RYE MANHATTAN
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Revolution Rye Whiskey
-1 oz. of Sweet Vermouth
-2 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
Shake rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters with ice. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with cherry.

THE MAD HEMINGWAY
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of First Run Rum
-1 oz. of grapefruit juice
-1 oz. of Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur

Instructions:
Shake rum, grapefruit juice, and maraschino liquor in a shaker with ice. Strain into coupe glass. Add a lime for garnish.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering, heading to the lake, or simply putting your feet up at home, a great cocktail doesn’t need to feel like work. With just three ingredients (including a favorite Mad River Distillers spirit), and a garnish, these easy recipes leave more time for what Labor Day weekend is really about: less labor, slowing down, and savoring the last days of summer. So pick your favorite pour, keep it simple, and raise a glass to a well-earned day off. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on August 30, 2026.

By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Creative Cocktails Made With Rum 44 Infusions

Creative Cocktails Made With Rum 44 Infusions

One of the best things about Rum 44 is how easily it transforms with fresh ingredients. Distilled from 100% Demerara sugar and crafted to highlight bright, clean flavors, Rum 44 serves as the perfect canvas for homemade fruit and botanical infusions. Whether you're steeping fresh blueberries, watermelon, strawberries, or herbs, a simple infusion can create an entirely new spirit and open the door to countless creative cocktails. 

Rum 44 is designed to shine in refreshing summer drinks, making it a natural choice for experimenting with seasonal produce. Here are six creative Rum 44 infusion recipes bursting with fresh flavor to inspire your next cocktail.

Blueberry Smash Highball on a table

BLUEBERRY SMASH HIGHBALL
Fresh blueberries give Rum 44 a rich, jammy character that pairs beautifully with bubbly soda water in this light and refreshing highball. It's proof that a simple infusion can create surprisingly complex flavor.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Blueberry infused Rum 44
-1/2 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-1/2 oz. of simple syrup
-1/4 oz. of Fernet Vexia
-Guinep Flavored Sparkling Water
-mint (for garnish)

Instructions:
To make blueberry-infused Rum 44, start with a bottle of Rum 44 and a pint of washed blueberries. Combine both in a mason jar, and shake once a day for a week. Then strain through a cheesecloth. Note: If you don't have access to Fernet Vexia, you can substitute with another Fernet.

To make the cocktail, add all ingredients except for the Guinep Sparkling Water to a shaker. Shake ingredients, then double strain into a highball glass over ice. Top with Guinep flavored sparkling mineral water. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Blueberry Passionfruit Daiquiri

BLUEBERRY PASSIONFRUIT DAIQUIRI
Bright passionfruit and blueberry-infused Rum 44 come together for a tropical twist on a classic Daiquiri. The fresh lime keeps everything crisp while the blueberries add subtle depth and color.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Blueberry infused Rum 44
-1 oz. of fresh lime juice
-1 oz. of Liber & Co Passionfruit Syrup

Instructions:
To make blueberry-infused Rum 44, follow the same instructions above. Start with a bottle of Rum 44 and a pint of washed blueberries. Combine both in a mason jar, and shake once a day for a week. Then strain through a cheesecloth. 

To make this cocktail, combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then double strain into a coupe glass. Add a lime wedge as garnish.

STRAWBERRY HIBISCUS DAIQUIRI
Sweet strawberries meet floral hibiscus for a vibrant cocktail that's equal parts refreshing and elegant. This infusion showcases how fresh fruit and botanicals can work together to create layered flavors.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Hibiscus-infused Rum 44
-1 oz. of lime juice
-1 oz. of El Guapo Cajun Grenadine

Instructions:
To make the Hibiscus-infused Rum 44, add one gram of hibiscus flowers per ounce of Rum 44 (a full bottle of Rum 44 would need about 25 grams of hibiscus flowers). Let the rum infuse for about one hour before using.

To make the cocktail, add ice to a coupe glass to chill. In a shaker, add the hibiscus-infused Rum 44, lime juice and El Guapo Cajun Grenadine. Shake for about 15 seconds. Remove ice from the coupe, then strain the contents of the shaker into the glass.

MAD VESPER
Rum isn't just for tropical drinks. The Mad Vesper gives the classic martini-inspired cocktail a modern twist, with Rum 44 adding clean character alongside herbal and citrus notes for a sophisticated summer sipper.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of botanical-infused Rum 44
-1 oz. of Rum 44
-1/2 oz. of Lillet

Instructions:
To make the botanical-infused Rum 44, age 21 grams of Juniper in a 750 ml bottle of Rum 44 for one week. After straining through a cheese cloth, continue aging for an additional week, with 3 grams of Coriander, 4 Cardamom pods, 1 gram of Fennel, 6 grams of Dried Lemon Peel, and 6 grams of Dried Orange Peel. After a week, strain again through a cheesecloth.

To make this cocktail, combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Serve up in a coupe. Garnish with a lemon twist.

WATERMELON & PASSIONFRUIT DAIQUIRI
Watermelon is one of summer's signature flavors, and when infused into Rum 44 it creates an incredibly refreshing base for this fruit-forward Daiquiri. Passionfruit brings just enough tartness to balance the sweetness.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of organic watermelon-infused Rum 44
-1 oz. of Liber & Co Passionfruit Syrup
-1 oz. of fresh lime juice

Instructions:
To make the watermelon-infused Rum 44, fill a quart size jar with cubed watermelon. Fill the jar with Rum 44, then shake and set the jar aside. Shake once a day for one week. When ready, strain out the watermelon.

To make the daiquiri, add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake hard, then strain into a chilled coupe glass.

Mad River Grasshopper on a table with a sprig of mint

MAD RIVER GRASSHOPPER
Mint-infused Rum 44 transforms this dessert-inspired cocktail into a refreshing after-dinner treat. Rich, creamy, and cooling, it's a fun reminder that infusions aren't limited to fruit alone.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of green peppermint candy cane infused Rum 44
-1 oz. of Crème de Cacao
-3/4 oz. of heavy cream


Instructions:
To make the green peppermint candy cane infused Rum 44, add 2 standard size green striped candy canes to a bottle with 16 ounces of Rum 44. Leave the candy canes in the container until they dissolve.

To make the cocktail, combine the peppermint infused Rum 44, Crème de cacao and heavy cream in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then double strain and garnish with fresh mint.

Infusing spirits at home is one of the easiest ways to get creative and personalize your cocktails, and Rum 44 was made for experimentation. Its clean profile lets fresh fruit, herbs, and botanicals shine while still providing the structure every great cocktail needs. Whether you're drawn to juicy berries, tropical fruit, cooling mint, or floral ingredients, these recipes are just the beginning. Grab a bottle of Rum 44, pick up your favorite seasonal ingredients, and discover just how many ways you can create your own signature summer cocktail.

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on August 11, 2026.

By in Media & Events Comments Off on Mad River Distillers Launches Bourbon-Based Canned Cocktail Line Made for the Outdoors

Mad River Distillers Launches Bourbon-Based Canned Cocktail Line Made for the Outdoors

Enjoy Outdoors—and Win $100

Mad River Distillers has launched its inaugural line of ready-to-drink canned cocktails, which are made with the distillery’s award-winning bourbon whiskey and deliver the flavor and character of a bar-quality whiskey cocktail. The debut flavors are Blood Orange Spritz, Green Mountain Mule, and Blackberry Hibiscus Spritz. Unlike many canned cocktails made with generic malt-based alcohols or neutral grain spirits, all three varieties are built around bourbon, giving them greater flavor and a distinctly whiskey-forward foundation.

“We wanted to create whiskey drinks that tasted like full-flavored cocktails but were easy to take outdoors,” said Mad River Distillers President Mimi Buttenheim. “With a founding team that includes a competitive ski racer, a marathoner and women’s national crew team member, an accomplished equestrian and a split board snowboarder, we are thrilled to be able to combine our passion for craft spirits with a format made to be enjoyed outdoors.”

To celebrate the launch and the brand’s “Enjoy Outdoors” message, Mad River Distillers is sponsoring a Craft Cocktail Photo Contest. Contestants can submit a selfie of our ready-to-drink cocktails being enjoyed outdoors and two winners will be selected each season, with winners receiving a $100 cash prize. No purchase is necessary to enter or win. Entrants may submit photographs through the online entry form or email them to photocontest@madriverdistillers.com. Complete contest information and official rules are available at:  www.madriverdistillers.com/craft-cocktail-photo-contest/.

The Bourbon Blood Orange Spritz, Bourbon Green Mountain Mule and Bourbon Blackberry Hibiscus Spritz are available in partnership with Farrell Distributing Corp in Vermont in 12 oz. 4-packs for $15.99 at beer, wine and spirits location in Vermont, as well as direct from the distillery’s tasting rooms in Burlington, Waitsfield, and Stowe.

About Mad River Distillers

Mad River Distillers is a craft producer of whiskey, rum and brandy in the heart of Vermont’s Mad River Valley. Its spirits are mashed, fermented, distilled and aged on site at the company’s distillery in Warren, Vermont. Mad River Distillers’ award-winning spirits and cocktails reflect the company’s commitment to true craftsmanship, distinctive spirit-forward flavors and the independent character of Vermont.

By in Media & Events Comments Off on Canned Cocktails Are Here!!

Canned Cocktails Are Here!!

Our Bourbon-based ready-to-drink craft canned cocktails are perfect for patios, picnic, parties and wherever the moment takes you. Lower in ABV, full of flavor, and easy to enjoy. Find them at retail stores in Vermont, and at our Tasting Rooms in Burlington, Waitsfield and Stowe.

Enter our outdoor photo contest for a chance to win $100! See details here.

By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Fresh Fruit Cocktails to Sip All Summer

Fresh Fruit Cocktails to Sip All Summer

As fresh fruit fills the farmers markets and gardens this summer season, it’s the perfect time to bring those fresh vibrant flavors into your cocktail glass! There are several ways you can incorporate fresh fruit into your cocktails. You can muddle the fruit, make a flavored simple syrup, a fresh squeezed juice, or simply add the fresh fruit as a garnish. From juicy strawberries to peaches and blueberries, from oranges to watermelon, lime and pineapple–we’re bringing you our favorite fresh fruit cocktails made to enjoy during warm summer days.

WATERMELON 44 MOJITO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 2 oz. of Rum 44
-1 oz. of fresh squeezed lime juice
-1 oz. of simple syrup
-2 oz. of soda water
-6 mint leaves
-1 sprig of mint
-1/2 cup chopped watermelon
-2-3 watermelon wedges for garnish

Instructions:
In a cocktail shaker, add 6 mint leaves and muddle them. Chop ½ cup of watermelon into squares and add them to the shaker, then muddle again until it is juiced. Add the rum, lime juice and simple syrup to the shaker with ice. Shake well, then double strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice. Top with soda water, then garnish with 2-3 wedges of watermelon and a fresh sprig of mint.

PAINKILLER
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of First Run Rum
-4 oz. of fresh pineapple juice
-1 oz. of fresh squeezed orange juice
-1 oz. of Coco Lopez

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake hard, then strain over fresh ice. Garnish with grated nutmeg, pineapple and a lime wheel.

STRAWBERRY SMASH
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-5 ripe and rinsed strawberries, leafy ends removed, chopped
-4 fresh basil leaves
-1.5 oz. of Rum 44
-1 oz. of fresh squeezed lemon juice
-1/4 oz. or a barspoon of Runamok Maple Grenadine
-Club soda

Instructions:
In a shaker, combine all ingredients except for the club soda. Muddle the ingredients together. Add fresh ice to a shaker, and shake well. Double strain into a stemless glass over fresh ice. Top with club soda, and garnish with a fresh strawberry and basil.

BITTER HEART
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-3/4 oz. of Linchpin Aperitivo (or Galliano or Aperol)
-3/4 oz. of fresh squeezed lime juice
-3/4 oz. of simple syrup
-2 Strawberries

Instructions:
Muddle rinsed and chopped strawberries in a shaker. Add the rest of the ingredients and shake with ice. Double strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a fresh strawberry.

BURNT PEACH
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Burnt Rock Bourbon
-1 oz. of Roasted Peach Syrup
-1/2 oz. of fresh squeezed lemon juice
-1/2 oz. of pineapple juice
-soda water

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients (except the soda water) in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain over fresh ice into a stemless wine glass. Top with soda water. Add a fresh sprig of thyme or rosemary as a garnish.

To make the Roasted Peach Syrup:
Take 3 peaches, de-core, slice into wedges, and lay in a baking pan with tall sides.  Add a couple tablespoons of water to the pan, and drizzle Vermont maple syrup over the peaches. Cover and bake at 375 for 30 minutes. On your stove top, add equal parts water and sugar to a small pot, and heat to just below a simmer. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Add peaches and any liquid from the baking dish into the water and sugar mixture on the stove, then cover and bring to a simmer. Remove from the heat, and allow the peaches to cool while still in the pot. Once cool, run the syrup through a cheesecloth. Keep the syrup refrigerated and consume within one week.

Blueberry Smash Highball on a table

BLUEBERRY SMASH HIGHBALL
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Blueberry infused Rum 44
-1/2 oz. of fresh squeezed lemon juice
-1/2 oz. of simple syrup
-1/4 oz. of Fernet Vexia (or other Fernet)
-Guinep Flavored Sparkling Water
-mint (for garnish)


Instructions:
In a shaker, add all ingredients except for the Guinep Sparkling Water. Shake ingredients, then double strain into a highball glass over ice. Top with Guinep flavored sparkling mineral water. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

To make Blueberry-infused Rum 44:
Start with a bottle of Rum 44 and a pint of washed blueberries. Combine both in a mason jar, and shake once a day for a week. Then strain through a cheesecloth.

MAD MARGE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 1/2 oz. of First Run Rum
-1 1/2 oz. of fresh squeezed orange juice
-1 oz. of Orange Curacao
-1 oz. of fresh squeezed lime juice
-1/2 oz. of Orgeat syrup
-mexican citrus seasoning
-orange slice

Instructions:
Prep your glass by dipping the rim of the glass in lime juice, then in the Mexican citrus seasoning (we used La Anita Clasico Seasoning). Set the glass aside. In a shaker, add the First Run Rum, orange juice, lime juice, Orange Curacao and Orgeat syrup. Add ice to the shaker, and shake for about 30 seconds. Add ice to your glass. Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass. Take the slice of orange and dip it into the Mexican citrus seasoning. As a garnish, add the spiced orange wedge to the rim of your glass.

MAD JUNGLE BIRD
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 1/2 oz. of First Run Rum
-3/4 oz. of Campari
-1 1/2 oz. of pineapple juice
-1/2 oz. of fresh squeezed lime juice
-1/2 oz. of simple syrup
-2-3 dashes of Bittercube Blackstrap Bitters

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake for 15-30 seconds. Strain into a tiki mug. Garnish with a cocktail umbrella, lime wheel and edible flowers.

Charred Pineapple Daiquiri

CHARRED PINEAPPLE DAIQUIRI
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Pineapple Infused Rum 44
-1 oz. of fresh squeezed lime juice
-1 oz. of Charred Pineapple Syrup

Instructions:
To make the cocktail, combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then double strain into a coupe glass. Add a dehydrated (or fresh) lime wheel as garnish.

To make the Pineapple Rum infusion:
Take a pineapple. Peel, core and cube it. Place the pineapple pieces in a large Ball jar with one bottle of Rum 44. Shake the jar daily for one week, then strain well through a cheesecloth, and then store the strained pineapple Rum 44 in your refrigerator. 

To make the Charred Pineapple Syrup:
Take the remaining cubed pineapple pieces and put them in a braising pan with high walls.  Dump out any remaining liquid. On medium heat, char the pineapple until they start to stick to the pan. Let all sides of the pineapple char, then remove from the pan. Add 2 cups of water, and deglaze the pan. Then, add the pineapple and 2 cups of sugar back to the pan, and simmer on low heat, stirring often for 10 minutes. Be sure to keep the pineapple pieces away from the flame during the charring process. Strain, and let the pineapple syrup cool before using.

Whether you prefer the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the richness of blueberries, the brightness of oranges, or the tart but sweet finish of a pineapple, fruit cocktails are an easy way to celebrate the flavors of the season. Their vibrant colors and fresh taste make every drink feel a little more like summer.

Mad River Distillers’ lineup of Vermont-crafted spirits pair beautifully with fresh fruit. The clean versatility of our Rum 44 and the smooth complexity of our First Run Rum pair particularly well with a variety of fruits. Whether you muddle your fruit, squeeze it into a fresh juice, or simply top your drink with a fruity garnish, a handful of fresh fruit is all it takes to give your cocktails a colorful, seasonal twist. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on July 20, 2026.

Bar Cart Checklist appears written on a blackboard on top of a cart
By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on The Ultimate Bar Cart Checklist: Everything You Need to Make Great Cocktails

The Ultimate Bar Cart Checklist: Everything You Need to Make Great Cocktails

A well-stocked bar or bar cart is more than just a stylish addition to your home. This is your work station for crafting incredible cocktails whenever the mood strikes. Whether you're hosting friends, experimenting with new recipes, or simply enjoying a well-made drink at the end of a long day, having the right tools and ingredients on hand makes all the difference when it comes to making cocktails. 

If you don’t have a professional bar setup at home, the good news is that you don’t need one! With a few essential mixers, tools, and pieces of glassware, you'll be prepared to shake, stir, and serve a wide variety of classic and contemporary drinks. Follow our checklist to build a versatile home bar that's ready for everything from an Old Fashioned to a Mojito.

1. LOCAL BOOZE
Great cocktails require great spirits, and if you’re going to stock up your home bar with whiskey, rye or rum, why not support local in the process? We carry a number of spirits that can be enjoyed on their own, or incorporated into a wide variety of cocktails. Our Cocktail Recipes page can be filtered by spirit, so you can find a ton of drink ideas based on your preferred spirit.

2. MIXERS
Mixers form the backbone of many cocktails, adding balance, dilution, and flavor. Some staples to keep on hand include tonic water, club soda, ginger beer, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and citrus juices such as lemon, lime, and grapefruit. With a handful of quality mixers, you'll be able to create everything from simple highballs to more complex seasonal cocktails.

3. SYRUPS
Simple syrup is one of the most commonly used cocktail ingredients, but it's just the beginning. Maple syrup, honey syrup, demerara syrup, and flavored syrups can all add sweetness and complexity to drinks. Many tropical drinks include syrups such as Orgeat or Grenadine. Syrups help balance citrus and bitterness while contributing unique flavor profiles that elevate cocktails from ordinary to memorable.

4. BITTERS
Often referred to as the "salt and pepper" of cocktails, bitters add depth, aroma, and complexity with just a few dashes. Aromatic bitters (like the popular Angostura Bitters) are essential for classics like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan, while orange bitters can brighten spirit-forward cocktails. Even a small collection of bitters can dramatically expand your cocktail-making possibilities.

5. COCKTAIL SHAKER
A cocktail shaker is used whenever a recipe includes citrus juice, egg whites, cream, or other ingredients that need vigorous mixing. Shaking helps chill, dilute, and aerate cocktails while creating a smooth, balanced texture. Whether you're making a Whiskey Sour, a Mojito, or a Daiquiri, a shaker is one of the most important tools on any bar cart.

6. MIXING GLASS
Not every cocktail should be shaken. Spirit-forward drinks such as Manhattans, Martinis, and Old Fashioneds are typically stirred to maintain clarity and texture. A mixing glass provides plenty of room to combine ingredients with ice and achieve proper dilution before serving.

7. BAR SPOON
Long-handled and designed specifically for cocktails, a bar spoon is used for stirring drinks in a mixing glass. Its twisted stem makes it easy to create smooth, controlled stirring motions while also serving as a handy tool for layering ingredients or measuring small amounts of liqueurs.

8. JIGGER
Consistency is key when making cocktails, and a jigger helps ensure every recipe is measured accurately. Available in various sizes, jiggers allow you to precisely pour spirits, syrups, juices, and liqueurs so your drinks are balanced every time.

9. STRAINER
After shaking or stirring, a strainer keeps unwanted ice chips, fruit pulp, herbs, and other ingredients out of the finished cocktail. Hawthorne strainers are commonly used with cocktail shakers, while julep strainers are often paired with mixing glasses. Either option helps create a cleaner, more polished drink.

10. ICE TRAY OR MOLD
Large ice cubes or spheres melt more slowly, reducing dilution while keeping drinks colder longer. Specialty ice molds are especially useful for spirit-forward cocktails served over ice, while standard cubes work well for shaken and highball-style drinks.

11. ROCKS GLASSES
A rocks glass is one of the most versatile pieces of glassware you'll own. Perfect for serving spirits neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Boulevardier, it's an essential part of any home bar setup.

12. TROPICAL DRINKWARE
While not necessary for every cocktail, specialty drinkware can enhance the experience of tropical drinks like a Mai Tai. Tall Collins glasses, hurricane glasses, and tropical mugs help showcase layered cocktails, elaborate garnishes, and crushed ice presentations that make tropical drinks so much fun.

Creating the perfect home bar doesn't happen overnight, and it doesn't need to. Start with your favorite spirits, a few essential tools, and a handful of mixers and bitters. Then, expand your collection as you discover new recipes and cocktail styles. At our Burlington Tasting Room, we’re always happy to help guide you with recommendations from our retail section. Once you have these bar cart essentials on hand, you'll be ready to mix everything from timeless classics to modern craft cocktails featuring your favorite Mad River Distillers spirits. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on June 29, 2026.

Good Games, Good Friends

Join us on Thursday 6/18 for another Game Night at our Burlington Tasting Room! Good friends, good games and good drinks! 



By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Top 10 Straight Bourbon Cocktails for National Bourbon Day

Top 10 Straight Bourbon Cocktails for National Bourbon Day

Every year on June 14th, bourbon lovers across the country celebrate National Bourbon Day, a tribute to one of America’s most iconic spirits. This day serves as an opportunity to recognize bourbon’s unique place in American history and cocktail culture. As a spirit that can only be produced in the United States, meeting specific production standards, bourbon has earned its reputation as America’s native whiskey. 

At Mad River Distillers, we proudly offer our own version of the American spirit, with a Vermont twist. Crafted using only regionally sourced, non-GMO grains and matured on-site in Vermont’s Mad River Valley, our Straight Bourbon reflects both traditional bourbon-making techniques and our commitment to local ingredients. The result is a bourbon with a deep, rich aroma of Vermont-grown corn, subtle smokiness on the palate, and a smooth aromatic finish that shines, whether enjoyed on its own or in a craft cocktail.

National Bourbon Day is the perfect excuse to explore some of the most beloved bourbon cocktails ever created. From spirit-forward classics to bright citrus-driven favorites, bourbon’s versatility allows it to serve as the foundation for an incredible range of drinks. Here are ten of the most popular bourbon cocktails made with our award-winning Straight Bourbon:

CLASSIC OLD FASHIONED
Few cocktails are as timeless as the Old Fashioned. Built around bourbon, bitters, sugar and citrus, this classic has just enough sweetness and complexity to enhance bourbon.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz Straight Bourbon
-1/4 oz Simple Syrup
-2 Dashes Angostura Bitters

Instructions
In a mixing glass, add all ingredients with ice. Stir for about 15-20 seconds. Strain contents into an old fashioned glass over a large cube. Add an orange peel for garnish.

BOURBON MANHATTAN
Elegant and sophisticated, the Manhattan combines bourbon with sweet vermouth and bitters for a cocktail that stands the test of time. 

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz Straight Bourbon
-1 oz Cocchi di Torino
-4 dashes of The Bitter Housewife Barrel-Aged Bitters.

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass over ice. Stir for about 8-12 seconds. Strain contents into a chilled Manhattan Coupe glass. Garnish with a cherry.

ROSEMARY’S WHISKEY SOUR
Bright citrus and bourbon create one of the most balanced cocktails ever created. Whiskey sours showcase bourbon’s ability to pair beautifully with fresh lemon and a sweetener.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-3/4 oz. of lemon juice
-1/2 oz. of Vermont Maple Syrup
-1/2 oz. of Rosemary Syrup
-2 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions
In a shaker, add all ingredients with ice. Shake for about 8-15 seconds. Strain contents into a daiquiri coupe glass. Add a rosemary sprig for garnish.

To make a Rosemary Syrup
In a Mason Jar, take 8-10 sprigs of rosemary and place in 1 cup of boiling water. Let steep (like a tea) for five minutes, then add 1.5 cups sugar and stir until dissolved. Seal the jar and let it sit for 8-12 hours, then strain out sprigs. In a shaker, add all ingredients with ice.

MAD MINT JULEP
The official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep is refreshing, aromatic, and perfect for warm-weather sipping.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz Straight Bourbon
-1/2 oz simple syrup
-10 mint leaves
-crushed ice
-3 mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions
In a silver julep cup, add the simple syrup and 10 mint leaves. Using a muddler, gently press the mint into the simple syrup to release the oils, being careful not to tear the mint. Pour the Straight Bourbon over the muddled mint. Add crushed ice to the cup, filling until there is a slight mound at the top. Garnish with the 3 mint sprigs.

BOULEVARDIER
A whiskey lover’s answer to the Negroni, the Boulevardier combines bourbon, sweet vermouth, and a bitter aperitivo for a rich, complex cocktail.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-3/4 oz. of Cocchi di Torino
-3/4 oz. of Campari

Instructions
Combine in a mixing glass over ice. Stir briefly. Strain contents into a Double Old Fashioned glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

Glass filled with Rye Gold Rush cocktail on a bar counter

GOLD RUSH
A modern classic featuring bourbon, honey syrup and fresh lemon juice. The Gold Rush offers bright citrus notes balanced by rich honey sweetness.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1 oz. of Honey Simple Syrup
-1 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice
-lemon twist

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a shaker, and shake. Strain contents in a glass, over a large ice cube. Add a twist of lemon for garnish.

NEW YORK SOUR
Visually stunning, the New York Sour builds on a classic Whiskey Sour recipe by adding a float of red wine. The wine adds depth, fruit character and elegance.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1 oz. simple syrup
-1 oz. lemon juice
-1/3 dropper of Ms. Better’s Bitters Miraculous Foamer
-1/2 oz. of red wine

Instructions
Add the Bourbon, simple syrup, lemon juice and foamer to a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a large rocks glass over a large ice cube. A foam will form on the top. Insert a bar spoon upside down in the glass, bringing it into the foam a little bit. Slowly pour the red wine over the spoon, then enjoy!

PAPER PLANE
A contemporary favorite that balances bourbon with equal parts aperitivo and citrus for a cocktail that is both approachable and complex.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-3/4 oz Straight Bourbon
-3/4 oz Aperol
-3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
-3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

Instructions
Add all ingredients to a shaker with lots of ice. Shake hard until frost appears on the shaker tin. Double strain the drink into a Coupe or Martini glass.

STICK SEASON HOT TODDY
A hot toddy is both comforting and timeless, combining bourbon with honey, lemon and hot water (or in this case, cider). 

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1/4 oz. of honey
-1/4 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-2 dashes of bitters (we recommend Cardamom or Bokers)
-hot cider
-orange twist

Instructions
Combine all ingredients (except the hot cider) in an Irish coffee mug. Stir to incorporate, then top with hot cider. Garnish with an orange twist

BLOOD ORANGE & BASIL BOURBON SMASH
The refreshing bourbon smash combines fruit with bourbon and herbs for a versatile drink that highlights seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1 oz. of Simple Syrup
-2 oz. of Blood Orange Juice

Instructions
In a shaker, add all ingredients with ice. Shake for about 8-15 seconds. Strain contents into a glass over fresh ice. Add a basil leaf for garnish.

Whether your bourbon cocktail of choice is an Old Fashioned, a Mint Julep, a Whiskey Sour, or something more adventurous, National Bourbon Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate America’s native spirit. We invite you to explore these classic bourbon cocktails using our Straight Bourbon Whiskey. If you’re looking to expand your bourbon horizons, be sure to explore our other bourbons—our Burnt Rock Bourbon which offers a distinctive flavor profile shaped by our unique aging process, and our Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey which combines the richness of bourbon with the unmistakable character of Vermont maple. Together with our Straight Bourbon, they showcase the many ways Mad River Distillers continues to put a Vermont twist on classic American whiskey.

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on June 9, 2026.

By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Fresh Summer Sips Made With Fresh Mint

Fresh Summer Sips Made With Fresh Mint

Every year on May 30th, cocktail enthusiasts celebrate National Mint Julep Day, a tribute to one of America’s most iconic warm-weather cocktails. The Mint Julep has deep roots in Southern cocktail culture, dating back to the 18th century when it was originally enjoyed as a spirit-forward drink featuring whiskey, sugar, crushed ice, and fresh mint. Today, the Mint Julep is widely celebrated as the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby. 

Fresh mint is a staple ingredient in countless cocktails beyond the Mint Julep, thanks to its cooling, aromatic qualities and ability to brighten bold spirits, citrus, and seasonal fruit. Often incorporated into cocktails during the warmer months, mint adds a refreshing layer that makes cocktails feel crisp, lively, and easy to enjoy outdoors. Whether added as a garnish or muddled directly into the drink, mint contributes both flavor and aroma—two of the most important elements of a quality craft cocktail. 

Beyond the Julep, mint appears in several of the world’s most beloved classic cocktails. Another refreshing and mint-forward cocktail is the Mojito, which combines rum, lime, mint, and soda water. Spiked lemonades often use mint to add freshness and herbal balance to bright citrus flavors. Tropical classics like the Mai Tai frequently feature mint garnish to enhance aroma and complement rich rum notes. 

From light and citrusy to rich and spirit-forward, mint has an unmatched versatility in cocktails. And lucky for all of us, fresh mint has a long season that spans Spring to Fall, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink with a bright flavor most of the year. Whether paired with bourbon, rum, fruit, citrus, or herbal liqueurs, mint brings balance and vibrancy to a wide range of recipes. 

With a fresh new summer fast approaching, here are some of our favorite fresh mint cocktails you can make from home:

MAD MINT JULEP
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1/2 oz. of simple syrup
-10 mint leaves
-crushed ice
-3 mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions:
In a silver julep cup, add the simple syrup and 10 mint leaves. Using a muddler, gently press the mint into the simple syrup to release the oils, being careful not to tear the mint. Pour the Straight Bourbon over the muddled mint. Add crushed ice to the cup, filling until there is a slight mound at the top. Garnish with the 3 mint sprigs.

STRAWBERRY MINT JULEP
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1 tsp. of VT Maple Syrup
-2 lemon wedges
-6 mint leaves
-2 strawberries
-optional: soda water, rhubarb bitters

Instructions:
Muddle mint leaves, maple syrup, a strawberry, and lemon wedges. Shake muddled ingredients with bourbon and ice. Pour into a highball glass, and top off with a splash of club soda. Garnish with mint and a strawberry.

GRAPEFRUIT MOJITO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 2 oz. of Rum 44
- 1 oz. of Grapefruit Juice
- 3/4 oz. of Lime Juice
- 3/4 oz. of Simple Syrup
- 8-10 mint leaves

Instructions:
Muddle Mint with simple syrup in a shaker. Add remaining ingredients, then shake with ice. Strain contents into a Collins glass, and top with club soda. Add a mint sprig and grapefruit for garnish.

MAPLE MOJITO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
 -1.5 oz. of Rum 44
-3/4 oz. of lime juice
-3/4 oz. of mint simple syrup
-1/4 oz. of Baird Farm Mint Infused Vermont Maple Syrup
-2 dashes of Fee Brothers Mint Bitters
-Club soda or seltzer to top

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients except for the club soda (or seltzer) in a tall glass filled with ice. Stir to incorporate ingredients, then top with the club soda or seltzer. Garnish with a lime wedge.

To make a mint simple syrup, combine 3 cups of simple syrup (a 1:1 ratio of sugar dissolved in hot water) with 1 cup of pressed mint leaves. Blanch the mint in boiling water for 15 seconds, then immediately remove the mint leaves and immerse them in ice water for 1 minute. Strain the leaves from the ice water. Blend the cooled simple syrup with the mint leaves for 1 minute, then strain well. Store the cooled mint simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, for up to 2 weeks.

MAD LIMONCELLO MOJITO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of Rum 44
-1 oz. of Limoncello
-1 oz. of fresh lime juice
-1/2 oz. of simple syrup
-soda water
-3 mint leaves
-1 sprig of mint

Instructions:
In a cocktail shaker, muddle 3 mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup. Add the Rum 44 and Limoncello to the shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice. Top with soda water, then garnish with a mint sprig.

WATERMELON 44 MOJITO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Rum 44
-1 oz. of fresh lime juice
-1 oz. of simple syrup
-2 oz. of soda water
-6 mint leaves
-1 sprig of mint
-1/2 cup chopped watermelon
-2-3 watermelon wedges for garnish

Instructions:
In a cocktail shaker, add 6 mint leaves and muddle them. Chop ½ cup of watermelon into squares and add them to the shaker, then muddle again until it is juiced. Add the rum, lime juice and simple syrup to the shaker with ice. Shake well, then double strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice. Top with soda water, then garnish with 2-3 wedges of watermelon and a fresh sprig of mint.

BLUEBERRY LEMONADE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-1/2 oz. of Metcalfe's Blueberry Liqueur
-6 oz. of Lemonade
-Mint sprig
-Lemon wedge

Directions:
In a shaker, add all ingredients with ice. Shake for about 8-15 seconds. Strain contents into a Highball glass over fresh ice. Add a lemon wedge and fresh mint sprig for garnish.

MAD RIVER LEMONADE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1.5 oz. of simple syrup
-1.5 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-ginger ale to top
-4 fresh mint leaves
-2 lemon wheels

Instructions:
In a shaker, combine simple syrup, lemon juice, mint leaves and bourbon. Shake well, then strain into a Collins glass over crushed ice. Top with ginger ale, then stir gently to incorporate. Add a sprig of mint for garnish, and two lemon wheels.

MAI TAI
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of First Run Rum
-1/4 oz. of Orgeat
-1/2  oz. of Triple Sec
-1 oz. of Lime Juice
-4 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
-Mint Garnish
-Lemon Wheel

Instructions:
In a shaker, add all ingredients, except for bitters, with ice. Shake for about 8-15 seconds. Dump contents into a tiki glass. Dash bitters on top of cocktail. Add a lemon wheel and mint sprig for garnish.

Host With The Most cocktail on the bar at Mad River Distillers

HOST WITH THE MOST
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of First Run Rum
-1 oz. of pineapple juice
-1/2 oz. of Fernet Branca Menta
-3/4 oz. of simple syrup
-3/4 oz. of lime juice
-2 dashes of the Vena's Island Bitters Charred Pineapple

Instructions:
Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice, then shake for about 30 seconds. Strain into a glass filled with crushed or pebbled ice. Top with soda water, then garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint.

Cranberry Bog cocktail on a bar

CRANBERRY BOG
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Rum 44
-1 oz. of Unsweetened cranberry juice
-3/4 oz. of simple syrup
-1/2 oz. of lime juice
-3 dashes of Floyd Wild Plum Bitters
-Fever Tree Tonic

Instructions:
Shake all ingredients (except the tonic) with ice. Strain into a stemless glass with fresh ice. Top with the Fever Tree Tonic, and garnish with a candied cranberry (cranberry rolled in sugar), a dried orange wheel, and fresh mint. For a beautiful presentation, leave enough room in your glass so that the candied cranberry does not sit in the cocktail.

Whether featured in a classic Mint Julep, a bright mojito, or a fruit-forward lemonade, fresh mint remains one of the most versatile ingredients behind the bar. Its aromatic lift, and ability to balance citrus, sweetness, and spirits make it a staple for warm-weather cocktails. From bourbon to rum, these Mad River Distillers recipes offer plenty of cooling and refreshing ways to enjoy fresh mint. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on May 18, 2026.

A hand holding up a Bourbon Spritz against a wood background on a sunny day.
By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Wine Cocktails for Warm Seasons

Wine Cocktails for Warm Seasons

As the weather warms up and patios fill with glasses of refreshing seasonal cocktails, wine lovers often find themselves reaching for a glass of white wine, sparkling wine or rosé. There are other ways for wine lovers to enjoy a glass of their favorite sipper in the warm weather seasons, while also enjoying something a little different from the usual pour. Wine cocktails combine wine with spirits (along with citrus, herbs, and liqueurs), bringing together the best qualities of both worlds—with layered flavors, bright acidity and refreshing bubbles.

In some cases, incorporating wine into cocktails adds alcohol content and complexity, especially when paired with full-proof spirits. However, many wine cocktails actually feel lighter and more sessionable because the wine stretches the cocktail while balancing stronger spirits with bubbles, acidity, and freshness. Lighter wines and aperitifs help create lower-proof cocktails that feel refreshing and approachable during warmer months. 

Wine has long played a role in classic cocktails. Sparkling wines add an effervescent lift to celebratory drinks such as a spritz or a French 75. For those who prefer flavor complexity over something light and crisp, red wine can contribute richness to spirit-forward cocktails like the NY Sour. We love using wine in cocktails because it opens the door to bright seasonal flavors but also works great in celebratory drinks. 

From sparkling wine cocktails to spirit-forward creations with layered depth, these recipes offer a fresh take for cocktail enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.

VERMONT VIOLETTE
Floral, bright, and beautifully balanced, the Vermont Violette combines sparkling wine with Rum 44 and vibrant botanical flavors for a cocktail that feels elegant yet approachable. 

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of Rum 44
-1/2 oz. of Rothman & Winter Creme de Violette
-1/2 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-1 oz. of Lambrusco

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake until well chilled and strain into a coupe. Garnish with a lemon swath.

SPARKLING SILVER
Perfect for brunches, celebrations, or warm afternoons on the patio, the Sparkling Silver showcases how sparkling wine can transform a cocktail by adding refreshing texture and effervescence.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1/4 oz. of simple syrup
-3/4 oz. of fresh lime juice
-1/2 oz. of Orange Curaçao
-1.5 oz. of Rum 44
-2 dashes of Angostura bitters
-2 oz. of dry sparkling wine

Instructions:
In a shaker, combine the Rum 44 with simple syrup, lime juice, orange curaçao and Angostura bitters. Add ice to the shaker, then shake for 15 seconds. Strain into a flute glass, then top with the dry sparkling wine. Add an orange peel for garnish.

BOURBON SPRITZ
This simple riff on the traditional spritz combines bourbon with sparkling wine and a bitter aperitif for a cocktail that feels both sophisticated and easy to drink. The wine helps lighten the whiskey, while adding crisp bubbles and balance.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz Straight Bourbon
-1 oz Aperol
-3/4 oz Lemon Juice
-Prosecco or Sparkling Wine
-Orange Slice

Instructions:
In a large wine glass, add all ingredients over ice. Top off with bubbles. Add an orange slice for garnish.

VERMONT SPRITZ
A riff on a French 75, this cocktail blends botanical and citrus flavors with sparkling wine for an aromatic, refreshing serve that is perfect for warm-weather gatherings.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1 oz. of Rum 44
- 3/4 oz. of St. Elder
- 3/4 oz. of Lemon Juice
-Sparkling wine

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake, then strain contents into a flute. Top with sparkling wine. Add a lemon peel for garnish.

AIR MAIL
The Air Mail combines our silver Rum 44 with sparkling wine for a celebratory cocktail with a hit of lime and honey. It is a light, toast-worthy cocktail with a crisp finish.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1 oz. of Rum 44
- 3/4 oz. of Lime Juice
- 3/4 oz. of Honey Syrup
- 2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
- Sparkling wine

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake, then strain contents into a flute. Top with sparkling wine, and add a lemon peel for garnish.

NY SOUR
A modern classic, the NY Sour isn’t an obvious choice for the warmer seasons, but it offers great complexity for those who prefer a beautiful cocktail with rich flavor. The wine float adds fruit depth, tannin, and complexity that elevate the whiskey base.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1 oz. of simple syrup
-1 oz. of lemon juice
-1/3 dropper of Ms. Better’s Bitters Miraculous Foamer
-1/2 oz. of red wine

Instructions:
Add the Bourbon, simple syrup, lemon juice and foamer to a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a large rocks glass over a large ice cube. A foam will form on the top. Insert a bar spoon upside down in the glass, bringing it into the foam a little bit. Slowly pour the red wine over the spoon, then enjoy!

Sparkling wines add texture and effervescence, creating lighter and more refreshing drinks, while red wines can add body, tannin, and dark fruit character. Fortified wines and aperitifs bring bitterness, sweetness, and herbal complexity. When paired thoughtfully with Mad River Distillers spirits, wine can soften stronger flavors, create balance, and add nuance that evolves with every sip.

For wine lovers, these cocktails offer a familiar starting point with an unexpected twist. And for cocktail enthusiasts, they’re a reminder that some of the most refreshing and sophisticated warm-weather drinks begin with a bottle of wine alongside a favorite spirit. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for something refreshing and a little unexpected, these wine cocktails offer plenty of reasons to raise a glass this season.

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on May 18, 2026.

By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Beyond the Traditional Mint Julep: 6 Bourbon Cocktails for Derby Day

Beyond the Traditional Mint Julep: 6 Bourbon Cocktails for Derby Day

Each year, the Kentucky Derby brings together sport, style, and celebration. A tradition known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” the Derby isn’t just about the race, it’s about the experience. Think warm spring weather, festive gatherings, and of course, beautiful bourbon cocktails. While the Mint Julep may be the iconic drink of the day, Derby cocktails as a whole tend to share a few key traits: they’re refreshing, easy to sip, and perfect for outdoor entertaining.

At Mad River Distillers, we embrace the spirit of this annual celebration while also expanding the lineup of Derby Day cocktail possibilities. Using our Straight Bourbon Whiskey, we like to highlight drinks that balance brightness, seasonal ingredients, and approachability—ideal for long afternoons, backyard gatherings, or watching the race with friends. 

If you’re looking to go beyond the traditional mint julep this year, these six cocktails offer a fresh take on Derby Day sipping.

BLOOD ORANGE & BASIL BOURBON SMASH
This vibrant cocktail leans into seasonal flavors, pairing bourbon with fresh blood orange and aromatic basil. The result is a drink that’s both refreshing and visually striking for a Derby gathering. The herbaceous notes and citrus brightness make it especially well-suited for warm weather sipping.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-1 oz. of Simple Syrup
-2 oz. of Blood Orange Juice

Instructions:
In a shaker, add all ingredients with ice. Shake for about 8-15 seconds. Strain contents into a glass over fresh ice. Add a basil leaf for garnish.

MAD RIVER LEMONADE
Few drinks say warm-weather entertaining like a classic lemonade. This version elevates the familiar combination with the addition of bourbon, creating a cocktail that’s crisp, refreshing, and easy to enjoy over the course of an afternoon. It’s also a great option for batching, making it ideal for larger Derby gatherings.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-1.5 oz. of simple syrup
-1.5 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-ginger ale to top
-4 fresh mint leaves
-2 lemon wheels

Instructions:
In a shaker, combine simple syrup, lemon juice, mint leaves and bourbon. Shake well, then strain into a Collins glass over crushed ice. Top with ginger ale, then stir gently to incorporate. Add a sprig of mint for garnish, and two lemon wheels.

STRAWBERRY MINT JULEP
A seasonal twist on the Derby classic, the Strawberry Mint Julep brings a fresh fruit element to the traditional build. The addition of strawberries adds natural sweetness and a hint of brightness, while mint keeps it rooted in julep tradition. It’s a simple way to update a familiar favorite for spring.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-1 tsp. of Vermont Maple Syrup
-2 lemon wedges
-6 mint leaves
-2 strawberries
-optional: soda water, rhubarb bitters

Instructions:
Muddle mint leaves, maple syrup, a strawberry, and lemon wedges. Shake muddled ingredients with bourbon and ice. Pour into a highball glass, and top off with a splash of club soda. Garnish with mint and a strawberry.

THE CATCHER IN THE RYE
A slightly more spirit-forward option, The Catcher in the Rye offers a nuanced balance of spice and subtle sweetness. With the inclusion of agave, it brings a softer, rounded edge to the whiskey while maintaining its character. For those looking for a cocktail with a bit more depth, this is a great choice that still feels appropriate for the Derby.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Revolution Rye
-2 oz. of grapefruit juice
-a dash of agave nectar
-3 sage leaves
-1 lime wedge

Instructions:
Muddle lime and 2 sage leaves in a rocks glass. Add ice, muddled ingredients, Revolution Rye, grapefruit juice and agave nectar to a shaker, and shake until frosty. Pour into a rocks glass, and garnish with a sage leaf.

BOURBON STREET
Rich yet balanced, Bourbon Street offers a slightly more indulgent take while still fitting into a Derby setting. Its layered flavor profile makes it a good option for those who prefer a cocktail with a bit more body, while still maintaining enough balance to enjoy in a warm-weather setting.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-1/4 oz. of Strawberry Simple or 1 sliced strawberry muddled with simple syrup
-3/4 oz. of Lemon Juice
-2 dashes Angostura Bitters
-Fever Tree Ginger Beer

Instructions:
Shake all ingredients. Strain over ice into a rocks glass. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with a sliced strawberry.

BOURBON SPRITZ
Light, bubbly, and effortlessly drinkable, the Bourbon Spritz is a natural fit for Derby Day. Combining bourbon with an aperitivo and sparkling elements, it delivers a refreshing, slightly bittersweet profile that’s perfect for daytime sipping. It’s a great option for those looking for something lower in intensity but still full of flavor.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon Whiskey
-1 oz. of Aperol
-3/4 oz. of Lemon Juice
-Prosecco/Sparkling Wine/Club Soda
-Orange Slice

Instructions:
In a large wine glass, add all ingredients over ice. Top off with bubbles. Add an orange slice for garnish.

While the Mint Julep may be the tradition, it’s far from the only way to enjoy bourbon on Derby Day. With the right balance of citrus, herbs, fruit, and bubbles, bourbon can take on a lighter, more refreshing role for Derby Day or any other warm weather celebration. Whether you’re hosting the annual party, or simply enjoying the race, these cocktails offer a range of options that bring something new to the occasion while staying true to the spirit of the Derby.

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on April 26, 2026.

By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on 4 Unexpected Cinco de Mayo Cocktails (No Tequila Required)

4 Unexpected Cinco de Mayo Cocktails (No Tequila Required)

Cinco de Mayo is a celebration marked by festive gatherings, great food, and of course, great cocktails. While the holiday itself commemorates the Mexican army’s victory at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, it has since evolved (especially in the U.S.) into a broader celebration of Mexican culture, community, and cuisine. Part of that cuisine includes a familiar lineup of adult drinks, including margaritas, palomas, and ice-cold Mexican lagers.

At Mad River Distillers, we appreciate those Cinco de Mayo classics, but we also like to take a slightly different approach by incorporating traditional Mexican flavors and ingredients—like agave, citrus, tamarind, and beer—into cocktails built around our rye whiskey and rum. These drinks are inspired by popular Cinco de Mayo cocktails, but bring something unexpected to the equation. If you’re looking to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with something a little different this year, these four cocktails offer a fresh perspective (with no tequila required).

MAD MARGE
Our riff on a classic margarita, the Mad Marge swaps tequila for our First Run Rum, resulting in a cocktail that’s bright, citrus-forward, and incredibly refreshing. Fresh squeezed orange juice adds a layer of natural sweetness, while a hint of mexican citrus seasoning brings a subtle savory kick. It’s a familiar format with a distinctly different base.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1 1/2 oz. of First Run Rum
- 1 1/2 oz. of fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1 oz. of Orange Curacao
- 1 oz. of lime juice
- 1/2 oz. of Orgeat syrup
- mexican citrus seasoning
- orange slice

Instructions:
Prep your glass by dipping the rim of the glass in lime juice, then in the Mexican citrus seasoning (we used La Anita Clasico Seasoning). Set the glass aside. In a shaker, add the First Run Rum, orange juice, lime juice, Orange Curacao and Orgeat syrup. Add ice to the shaker, and shake for about 30 seconds. Add ice to your glass. Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass. Take the slice of orange and dip it into the Mexican citrus seasoning. As a garnish, add the spiced orange wedge to the rim of your glass.

WHITE RUM MICHELADA
A refreshing and savory option, the White Rum Michelada builds on the classic beer-based cocktail by incorporating the clean and versatile Rum 44 with a light Mexican lager. Tomato juice, citrus, and spice round out the drink, creating a layered, flavorful and thirst-quenching cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz. of Rum 44
- 1/2 oz. of fresh lime juice
- 4 oz. of tomato juice
- light beer
- 2 dashes of Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 dashes of hot sauce
- pinch of black pepper

Instructions:
Rim a pint glass with Tajin or similar seasoning. Add all ingredients to the glass. Fill with ice, and stir to incorporate the ingredients, then top with your choice of light beer.

CATCHER IN THE RYE
A spirit-forward cocktail with a subtle nod to agave, the Catcher In The Rye brings together the spice of rye whiskey with the earthy sweetness of agave syrup. While agave is most commonly associated with tequila and mezcal, its use as a sweetener adds depth and balance to cocktails. 

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Revolution Rye
-2 oz. of grapefruit juice
-a dash of agave nectar
-3 sage leaves
-1 lime wedge

Instructions:
Muddle lime and 2 sage leaves in a rocks glass. Add ice, muddled ingredients, Revolution Rye, grapefruit juice and agave nectar to a shaker, and shake until frosty. Pour into a rocks glass, and garnish with a sage leaf.

DALAT GARDENS
The Dalat Gardens cocktail highlights tamarind, a tangy, slightly sweet ingredient that plays a prominent role in many Mexican beverages and dishes. Using tamarind syrup, this cocktail strikes a balance between tart and rich, pairing beautifully with the depth of our Revolution Rye Whiskey. Tamarind’s unique flavor profile makes it an ideal way to add complexity to a drink, offering something a little unexpected while still feeling rooted in traditional flavors.

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Revolution Rye
-1/2 oz. of Liquid Alchemist Tamarind Syrup
-1/2 oz. of Honey Simple Syrup
-1/4 oz. of lemon
-1/4 oz. of lime
-1 full dropper of Bennett Exorcism Bitters
-Fever-Tree premium Indian Tonic Water

Instructions:
To make this from home, combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain over fresh ice, then top with Fever-Tree premium Indian Tonic Water. Garnish with fresh herbs (such as mint, lemon balm, and thai basil), as well as a lemon and lime wheel.

While rye whiskey and rum may not be traditional spirits in Cinco de Mayo cocktails, a great Mexican-inspired cocktail doesn’t require tequila. By drawing inspiration from the ingredients and flavors that define Mexican cuisine, it’s possible to create drinks that feel just as festive, while offering something new. Whether you’re mixing up a citrus-forward sipper, a savory Michelada, or something a little more spirit-driven, these cocktails are a great way to add a fresh perspective to your Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on April 26, 2026.

A White Rum Michelada in front of a bottle of Rum 44 on a table.
By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Top 8 Brunch Cocktails

Top 8 Brunch Cocktails

What makes a great brunch cocktail? Brunch cocktails are lighter than evening drinks. The best brunch cocktails are refreshing and flavorful, and often have a bright citrus note and a subtle sweetness. Some brunch cocktails have a hit of spice to keep you awake and energized, without overpowering your meal. From bubbly cocktails like a spritz to a spicy sip from a Michelada riff, a great brunch cocktail is designed for easy sipping and to accompany a leisurely late morning meal.

Here are our Top 8 favorite brunch cocktail recipes for pairing with your favorite brunch bites:

MAD MARGE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1 1/2 oz First Run Rum
- 1 1/2 oz fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1 oz Orange Curacao
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz Orgeat syrup
- mexican citrus seasoning
- orange slice

Instructions:
Prep your glass by dipping the rim of the glass in lime juice, then in the Mexican citrus seasoning (we used La Anita Clasico Seasoning). Set the glass aside. In a shaker, add the First Run Rum, orange juice, lime juice, Orange Curacao and Orgeat syrup. Add ice to the shaker, and shake for about 30 seconds. Add ice to your glass. Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass. Take the slice of orange and dip it into the Mexican citrus seasoning. As a garnish, add the spiced orange wedge to the rim of your glass.

BOURBON SPRITZ
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon
- 1 oz. of Aperol
- 3/4 oz. of lemon juice
- Prosecco (or club soda)
- orange slice

Instructions:
In a large wine glass, add all ingredients over ice. Top off with bubbles. Add an orange slice for garnish.

PX75
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz. of PX Rum
- 1/2 oz. of fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz. of simple syrup
- 2-3 dashes of Bitter Queens Figgy bitters

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients, except the Prosecco, in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a flute glass. Top with chilled Prosecco, and garnish with a lemon twist.

FRENCH 44
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
- 1 oz. of Rum 44
- 1/2 oz. of fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp. of simple syrup
- Champagne or Prosecco
- Crude Bitterless Bitters

Instructions:
In a shaker with ice, add the rum, lemon juice and simple syrup. Shake for 10 seconds, then strain into a champagne flute. Top with 3-4 oz Champagne or Prosecco. Add 6-8 drops of Bitterless Marriage bitters.

LAVENDER LEMONADE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz RUM 44
- 3/4 oz Lemon Juice
- 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
- 5 dashes Scrappy's Lavender Bitters
- Club soda

Instructions:
In a shaker, combine all ingredients with ice. Shake for about 8-12 seconds. Double strain contents into a highball glass over cubes. Top with club soda. Add a lavender sprig for garnish.

VERMONT SPRITZ
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1 oz Rum 44
- 3/4 oz St. Elder
- 3/4 oz Lemon Juice

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake, then strain contents into a flute. Top with sparkling wine. Add a lemon peel for garnish.

GRAPEFRUIT MOJITO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 2 oz Rum 44
- 1 oz Grapefruit Juice
- 3/4 oz Lime Juice
- 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
- 8-10 mint leaves

Directions:
Muddle mint with simple syrup in a shaker. Add remaining ingredients, then shake with ice. Strain contents into a Collins glass, and top with club soda. Add a mint sprig & grapefruit for garnish.

WHITE RUM MICHELADA
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz. of Rum 44
- 1/2 oz. of fresh lime juice
- 4 oz. of tomato juice
- light beer
- 2 dashes of Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 dashes of hot sauce
- pinch of black pepper

Instructions:
Rim a pint glass with Tajin or similar seasoning. Add all ingredients to the glass. Fill with ice, and stir to incorporate the ingredients, then top with your choice of light beer.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or relaxing into the weekend, what these recipes highlight is the versatility of our spirits. From the smooth and rum-caramel finish of our First Run Rum to our clean, silver Rum 44—each spirit brings something distinct to the glass, while still lending itself to a lighter brunch-ready taste. Incorporating fresh fruit juices, sparkling elements and herbal or floral modifiers all make for solid choices when it comes to a brunch cocktail. 

For a tasting of our spirits, be sure to visit one of our tasting rooms. You can grab a bottle for all your future brunch adventures while you’re there. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on April 5, 2026.

By in Blog Comments Off on Maple Syrup Cocktail Recipes

Maple Syrup Cocktail Recipes

Cows on pasture, the green mountains, Fall foliage and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream—these are just a few things that people think of as quintessential to Vermont. Of course, no list representing Vermont is complete without the sweet treat we call maple syrup. With a climate that is ideal for producing the best maple syrup (cold nights and warm days), and a rich soil that supports the health of maple trees, Vermont has a long sugaring tradition.

As a sweetener, maple syrup is a natural option that is low glycemic, less processed than refined sugar, and it contains nutrients and antioxidants. At Mad River Distillers, we've proudly partnered with local maple syrup companies on a few products. Our Maple Cask Rum is aged in barrels that once held Wood’s Rum Barrel Aged Maple Syrup. We also provide our bourbon barrels to Old City Syrup for their Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup. That isn’t our only maple connection though. One of our latest spirit additions is our Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey, a cordial combining our Straight Bourbon with Vermont maple syrup. We have also incorporated maple syrup into a variety of cocktail recipes as a substitute for simple syrup.

Here, we share a mix of Mad River Distillers cocktail recipes featuring the flavor and sweetness of Vermont maple syrup, starting with our most popular cocktail on the Burlington Tasting Room menu:

MAPLE BOURBON SOUR

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
1 oz. of Vermont maple syrup
1 oz. of fresh lemon juice
4 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker over ice. Shake briefly. Strain contents into a Double Old Fashioned glass. Garnish with Angostura Bitters.

Maple Mule next to a bottle of Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey

MAPLE MULE

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
1.5 oz. of Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey
1/2 oz. of fresh squeezed lime juice
ginger beer
lime wheel garnish

Instructions:
In a copper mug with ice, add the Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey, then lime juice. Top with ginger beer. Add a lime wheel for garnish and enjoy!

MAPLE PUMPKIN SOUR

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
2 oz. of Burnt Rock Bourbon
1 oz. of lemon juice
1 oz. of Woods Pumpkin Spice Maple Syrup
2 dashes of Bittermens Tiki Bitters
2 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
Add all ingredients except Angostura Bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass. Top with 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters as a float.

Cider Punch cocktail and ingredients on a table

CIDER PUNCH

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
1.5 oz. of Maple Cask Rum
2 oz. of Champlain Orchard’s Fresh Apple Cider
1/4 oz. of Vermont maple syrup
1/2 oz. of lemon juice
1/2 oz. of orange juice
5 dashes of Angostura Bitters
Stowe Cider Dry & High (hard cider to top)

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients, except the hard cider, in a shaker with ice. Strain into a Collins glass, then top the glass with hard cider. (If you can’t find Stowe Cider Dry & High, another hard dry cider will work). Add an orange and lemon wedge for garnish.

FARMHOUSE BOULEVARDIER

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
1 oz. of Double Tapped Maple Bourbon Whiskey
1 oz. of Cardamaro Amaro
1 oz. of Cocchi di Torino

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir for about 15 seconds, then strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

ROSEMARY'S WHISKEY SOUR

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
3/4 oz. of lemon juice
1/2 oz. of Vermont maple syrup
1/2 oz. of Rosemary Syrup
2 Dashes Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
In a shaker, add all ingredients with ice. Shake for about 8-15 seconds. Strain contents into a daiquiri coupe glass. Add a rosemary sprig for garnish.

To make a rosemary syrup, in a Mason Jar, take 8-10 sprigs of rosemary and place in 1 cup of boiling water. Let it steep (like a tea) for five minutes, then add 1.5 cups sugar and stir until dissolved. Seal the jar and let it sit for 8-12 hours, then strain out sprigs.

STRAWBERRY MINT JULEP

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
1 tsp. of Vermont maple syrup
2 lemon wedges
6 mint leaves
2 strawberries
optional: soda water, rhubarb bitters

Instructions:
Muddle mint leaves, maple syrup, a strawberry, and lemon wedges. Shake muddled ingredients with bourbon and ice. Pour into a highball glass, and top off with a splash of club soda. Garnish with mint and a strawberry.

MAPLE STOUT SOUR

Stout Simple Syrup Ingredients:
-2 - 16 oz. cans of 14th Star Brewing Maple Breakfast Stout
-2-2.5 cups of sugar

Cocktail Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Maple Cask Rum or Straight Bourbon
-1.5 oz. of stout simple syrup
-1 oz. of lemon juice

Instructions:
In a shaker, combine Straight Bourbon or Maple Cask Rum, the stout simple syrup and lemon juice. Add ice to the shaker, and shake hard for about 15 seconds. Strain contents into a chilled coupe, and enjoy!

To make the stout syrup:
To make the stout simple syrup, bring 2 - 16 oz. cans of the Maple Breakfast Stout to just below a rolling simmer in a saucepan.* Heat for 2-3 hours, whisking every 1/2 hour. Remove the froth that forms at the top. Once you have reduced the stout to about half (16 oz.), add sugar and stir until it is fully dissolved. Set the simple syrup aside to cool.

LINCHPIN DAIQUIRI

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of First Run Rum
-1 oz. of Linchpin Aperitivo (or Aperol)
-3/4 oz. of fresh lime juice
-1/4 oz. of Rum Barrel Aged Maple Syrup

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake, then double strain into a coupe glass.

DIRTY CHAI MARTINI

Ingredients - Yields 4 Cocktails:
-4 oz. of RUM 44
-4 Chai tea bags
-1 cup of filtered water
-1 tbsp. of Vermont maple syrup
-2 oz. of cold brew coffee
-1 cup of milk
-Star Anise

Instructions:
Heat the water to almost boiling and steep the tea for 4 minutes. Discard the tea bags. Add in the maple syrup. Stir to combine and set to the side to cool. In a shaker, pour espresso, rum, milk, and cooled chai over ice. Shake for about 8-10 seconds. Double strain into 4 martini glasses, and garnish with star anise.

Winter Maple Mojito and ingredients on a table

MAPLE MOJITO

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of RUM 44
-3/4 oz. of lime juice
-3/4 oz. of mint simple syrup
-1/4 oz. of Baird Farm Mint Infused Vermont Maple Syrup
-2 dashes of Fee Brothers Mint Bitters
-Club soda or seltzer to top

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients except for the club soda (or seltzer) in a tall glass filled with ice. Stir to incorporate ingredients, then top with the club soda or seltzer. Garnish with a lime wedge.

To make Mint Simple Syrup:
Combine 3 cups of simple syrup (a 1:1 ratio of sugar dissolved in hot water) with 1 cup of pressed mint leaves. Blanch the mint in boiling water for 15 seconds, then immediately remove the mint leaves and immerse them in ice water for 1 minute. Strain the leaves from the ice water. Blend the cooled simple syrup with the mint leaves for 1 minute, then strain well. Store the cooled mint simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, for up to 2 weeks.

HEARTSPARKS

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Maple Cask Rum
-1/2 oz. of Benedictine
-1/2 oz. of Banana Liqueur
-1/2 oz. of Lemon Juice
-1/4 oz. of Maple Syrup
-2 dashes Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake, then strain contents into a coupe glass. Serve and enjoy!

SWITCHEL IN THE RYE

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Revolution Rye Whiskey
-1/2 oz. of Royal Rose Jasmine Syrup
-1/4 oz. of Lemon Juice
-2 oz. of VT Switchel

Instructions:
Combine ingredients in a shaker over ice. Shake briefly. Strain contents into a Highball glass. Garnish with a lemon peel.

ESPRESSO MARTINI

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.25 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-1/4 oz. of Vermont Maple Syrup
-1/2 oz. of  Metcalfe’s Maple Creme Liqueur
-2 oz. of cold brew coffee

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake for 8-10 seconds. Strain contents into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with cinnamon or cocoa.

You might be wondering how we make our Maple Cask Rum. This rum starts as our First Run Rum, which is distilled from 100% demerara sugar. We lend our used rum barrels to Wood's Vermont Syrup Company, which they use to make their Rum Barrel Aged Maple Syrup. The barrels are then returned to us, and we transfer our First Run Rum into these maple-cured barrels. The result is a smooth, bright rum with a nose of tropical fruits and butterscotch flavors. 

We offer another product using our Maple Cask Rum—our Maple Fig Madhattan, which is a ready-to-drink spin on the classic Manhattan cocktail made with Black Fig Vodka by Black Infusions and bitters. To pick up a bottle of either maple product, stop by a Tasting Room or learn more on our product pages. You can also find bottles of Wood’s Maple Syrup and Old City Syrup at our Burlington Tasting Room, in addition to other maple products. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on September 17, 2023. Updated on April 5, 2026.

By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Top 5 Spring Season Cocktails

Top 5 Spring Season Cocktails

The weather is warming, and the days are getting longer. Spring marks the start of a new cocktail season filled with tasty sippers that are lighter, brighter and more refreshing than their winter counterparts. This time of year, ingredients like berries, herbs, floral liqueurs and citrus all make a welcomed resurgence over the heavier cocktails that frequent winter cocktail menus. 

In the spring, we welcome berry ingredients like strawberries and raspberries; herb ingredients like mint, basil and thyme; floral ingredients like lavender and elderflower; and citrus ingredients like lemon, grapefruit and lime. Another refreshing ingredient popularly worked into spring cocktails are bubbles, like soda water and Prosecco. 

Discover the top 5 spring season cocktails you’re likely to find at your favorite local bar or restaurant. Check out our recipes below to make a Mad River Distillers spring cocktail riff from home.

Aperol Spritz

BOURBON SPRITZ
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon
- 1 oz. of Aperol
- 3/4 oz. of lemon juice
- Prosecco (or club soda)
- orange slice

Instructions:
In a large wine glass, add all ingredients over ice. Top off with bubbles. Add an orange slice for garnish.

French 75

Like the Aperol Spritz, this cocktail is refreshing, light and bubbly, but with a citrus spin. It’s a popular choice for celebrations, and traditionally is made with gin, Champagne, lemon juice and simple syrup. Here’s our spring-ready riff between a French 75 and a St. Germain using the versatile Rum 44 and Elderflower liqueur:

ELDERFLOWER 75
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1 oz. of Rum 44
- 3/4 oz. of Elderflower liqueur
- 1/2 oz. of fresh lemon juice
- Prosecco
- Luxardo cherry

Instructions:
Add a Luxardo cherry to the bottom of a flute glass. Fill the glass halfway with Prosecco. In a shaker, combine Rum 44, Elderflower liqueur and lemon juice. Add ice, then shake well. Double strain into the flute glass over the Prosecco.

Mojito

There are so many flavor varieties when it comes to a Mojito, from traditional mint to fruit flavored. In a classic mojito, you muddle fresh mint leaves with sugar, white rum, lime juice and club soda. Here’s our frozen riff on a traditional mint mojito made with our silver Rum 44:

FROZEN MOJITO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
- 2 oz. of Rum 44
- 1 oz. of lime juice
- 3/4 oz. of simple syrup
- 6 fresh mint leaves

Instructions:
In a blender, add all ingredients with 1/2 cup of crushed ice. Blend on low until finely crushed. Pour contents into a highball. Add a fresh mint sprig for garnish.

Mint Julep

Another cocktail where mint is a main feature, the Mint Julep is simple but aromatic and refreshing, and always served in a julep cup. Similar to a mojito, with this cocktail you muddle mint with simple syrup, but use bourbon instead of rum. Here’s our riff on a derby-worthy Mint Julep using our Straight Bourbon:

MAD MINT JULEP
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 2 oz. of Straight Bourbon
- 1/2 oz. of simple syrup
- 10 mint leaves
- crushed ice
- 3 mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions:
In a silver julep cup, add the simple syrup and 10 mint leaves. Using a muddler, gently press the mint into the simple syrup to release the oils, being careful not to tear the mint. Pour the Straight Bourbon over the muddled mint. Add crushed ice to the cup, filling until there is a slight mound at the top.

Strawberry Basil

With this refreshing and fruit-forward cocktail (typically made with gin, vodka or tequila), you muddle fresh strawberries and basil, which are in peak season in the spring. Here’s our fresh riff on this cocktail made with our Rum 44 and Runamok Maple Grenadine:

STRAWBERRY SMASH
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 5 ripe and rinsed strawberries, leafy ends removed, chopped
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- 1.5 oz. of Rum 44
- 1 oz. of fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 oz. of Runamok Maple Grenadine
- club soda

Instructions:
In a shaker, combine all ingredients except for the club soda. Muddle the ingredients together. Add fresh ice to a shaker, and shake well. Double strain into a stemless glass over fresh ice. Top with club soda, and garnish with a fresh strawberry and basil.

While there are other popular springtime cocktails known for their bright citrus flavors (including the Paloma, Lemon Drop and Bee Knees), our top 5 favorites are super tasty, aromatic and refreshing options that can be made using either our Straight Bourbon or Rum 44. So, once your gardens are growing, be sure to pick yourself some fresh mint, basil and strawberries to make our top cocktails above. If you need any simple syrup or grenadine, stop by the retail section of our Burlington Tasting Room to grab some spring season supplies. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on March 16, 2026.

Winter Maple Mojito cocktail and ingredients on a bar
By in Blog Comments Off on St. Patrick’s Day Cocktails

St. Patrick’s Day Cocktails

When you think of St. Patrick’s Day, the color green and a filling stout beer or Irish whiskey probably comes top-of-mind. Here at Mad River Distillers, we’ve experimented with a variety of delicious cocktails using our spirits that would make for incredible sippers during your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. From something green to a whiskey sour made using a Guinness simple syrup, we have a few great cocktail ideas to try below as alternatives to the traditional stout this year.

THIN MINT
This cocktail has a creamy, slightly green color and tastes just like the name implies. A chocolate and mint flavored cocktail that would make an ideal St. Patrick’s Day treat.

Ingredients:
-1.5 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-1.5 oz. of Creme de Cacao
-3/4 oz. of Green Creme de Menthe
-1 splash of Irish Cream
-3 oz. of half of half

Instructions:
In a mixing glass, combine all ingredients. Add ice, then shake well. Strain into a coupe glass, then grate chocolate over the top. To add to the presentation further, add a thin mint cookie as garnish.

GREEN ENVY
This cocktail is a simple but bright and herbal option combining Rum 44 with Green Chartreuse, lime juice, simple syrup and a pinch of salt.

Ingredients:
-1 oz. of Rum 44
-3/4 oz. of Green Chartreuse
-1 oz. of fresh lime juice
-3/4 oz. of simple syrup
-pinch of salt

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.

Winter Maple Mojito and ingredients on a table

WINTER MAPLE MOJITO
If you’re looking for something lighter than a stout to enjoy on St. Patrick’s Day, try this refreshing mojito recipe with a beautiful mint-green color.

Ingredients:
-1.5 oz. of Rum 44
-¾ oz. of lime juice
-¾ oz. of mint simple syrup
-¼ oz. of Baird Farm Mint Infused Vermont Maple Syrup
-2 dashes of Fee Brothers Mint Bitters
-club soda or seltzer to top

Instructions:
To make a mint simple syrup, first combine 3 cups of simple syrup (a 1:1 ratio of sugar dissolved in hot water) with 1 cup of pressed mint leaves. Blanch the mint in boiling water for 15 seconds, then immediately remove the mint leaves and immerse them in ice water for 1 minute. Strain the leaves from the ice water. Blend the cooled simple syrup with the mint leaves for 1 minute, then strain well. Store the cooled mint simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, for up to 2 weeks. To make this cocktail, combine all ingredients except for the club soda (or seltzer) in a tall glass filled with ice. Stir to incorporate ingredients, then top with the club soda or seltzer, and garnish with a lime wedge.

44 LAST WORDS
This brightly green-hued cocktail is a riff on a traditionally gin cocktail, made with Rum 44 and juniper berry-infused orange bitters.

Ingredients:
-2 dashes of juniper berry-infused orange bitters
-1 oz. of Rum 44
-1 oz. of Luxardo Maraschino
-1 oz. of Luxardo Del Santo
-1 oz. of fresh lime juice

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake well, then double strain into a coupe glass.

Stout Sour cocktail on the Burlington Tasting Room bar

STOUT SOUR
This is our spin on a traditional whiskey sour made using a Guinness stout simple syrup reduction and our Revolution Rye.

Ingredients:
-2 oz. of Revolution Rye
-1 oz. of lemon juice
-2 oz. of Guinness Simple Syrup (made using 2-16 oz. cans of Guinness)

Instructions:
To make the Guiness simple syrup, first bring 2-16 oz. cans of Guinness to just below a rolling simmer in a saucepan. Heat for 2-3 hours, whisking every 1/2 hour. Remove the froth that forms at the top. Once you have reduced the stout to about half (16 oz.), add 2-2.5 cups of sugar and stir until it is fully dissolved. Set the simple syrup aside to cool before using, and store in the refrigerator for up to one week. To make the cocktail with the Guinness simple syrup, combine all ingredients above in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.

RYERISH COFFEE
This recipe is a delicious spin on the traditional Irish Coffee drink created in 1943, made using our Revolution Rye and demerara syrup.

Ingredients:
-1.5 oz. of Revolution Rye
-1 oz. of demerara syrup
-Hot coffee
-2 oz. of whipping cream
-½ oz. of Benedictine (or cinnamon syrup)
-Cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:
In an Irish coffee mug, add the Revolution Rye, demerara syrup and hot coffee. Stir to combine ingredients. In a shaker, combine the whipping cream and Benedictine (or cinnamon syrup) and shake for a full minute until whipped cream is formed. Top the coffee with whipped cream, then grate fresh cinnamon on top.

While you’re celebrating with drinks, consider celebrating with a great meal as well! Our Whiskey Stew has all the traditional St. Patrick’s Day stew ingredients and flavors, just kicked up a notch with a bit of our Bourbon Whiskey. 

As usual, if you need any ingredients, you can find our spirits, bitters and barware at our Burlington Tasting Room or online. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on March 14, 2023. Updated on March 14, 2026.

A highball cocktail with grapefruit in and around it.
By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Grapefruit In Cocktails

Grapefruit In Cocktails

Citrus is a common ingredient in cocktails. Because it is acidic, it has the power to tame the burn of ethanol while also adding a bright or slightly bitter flavor to your drink. Citrus became a common cocktail ingredient dating back to the time when sea voyagers suffered from Vitamin C deficiencies that led to scurvy, and citrus was used as a treatment. To learn a bit more about that history, we invite you to read our blog post on How Citrus Transforms Cocktails.

Grapefruit is a highly acidic citrus. It is less acidic than lemons and limes, but more acidic than oranges. It also has less sugar than an orange. Grapefruit are known for their bittersweet and tangy flavor, though there are some flavor differences between varieties, with red and pink ones tending to taste a little sweeter. In cocktails, the acidity of grapefruit adds a refreshing balance to sweet drinks, adding a bright hit of citrus that is a little tart, a little bitter, and a little sweet. 

We’re excited to share our collection of cocktail recipes featuring the unique and complex flavor of grapefruit.

GRAPEFRUIT DAIQUIRI
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-3/4 oz. of grapefruit juice
-1/2 oz. of lime juice
-1/2 oz. of simple syrup
-6 Dashes Scrappy's Grapefruit Bitters

Instructions:
In a shaker, add all ingredients with ice. Shake for about 8-10 seconds. Strain contents into a coupe glass. Add a rosemary sprig for garnish.

GRAPEFRUIT MOJITO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 2 oz Rum 44
- 1 oz Grapefruit Juice
- 3/4 oz Lime Juice
- 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
-club soda
- 8-10 mint leaves

Instructions:
Muddle Mint with simple syrup in a shaker. Add remaining ingredients, then shake with ice. Strain contents into a Collins glass, and top with club soda. Add a mint sprig & grapefruit for garnish.

HEMINGWAY DAIQUIRI
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Rum 44
-3/4 oz. of lime juice
-1/4 oz. of Luxardo Maraschino
-1/4 oz. of grapefruit juice
-lime wheel

Instructions:
Shake all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Strain into a coupe or glass. Add a lime wheel for garnish.

WEST ERNEST 44
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1/2 oz. of Rum 44
-1/2 oz. of fresh grapefruit juice
-1/2 oz. of fresh lime juice
-1/4 oz. of grenadine
-1 can/bottle of IPA beer
-2 drops of Rizzo bitters

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients (except beer) in a shaker with ice. Shake and serve over ice in a collins glass. Top with IPA and a couple drops of Rizzo bitters. Add a grapefruit peel as garnish

THE CATCHER IN THE RYE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Revolution Rye
-2 oz. of grapefruit juice
-a dash of agave nectar
-3 sage leaves
-1 lime wedge

Instructions:
Muddle lime and 2 sage leaves in a rocks glass. Add ice, muddled ingredients, Revolution Rye, grapefruit juice and agave nectar to a shaker, and shake until frosty. Pour into a rocks glass, and garnish with a sage leaf.

In addition to grapefruit juice, there are other ways to incorporate the bright flavor of grapefruit into cocktails. Check out our Rum Punch recipe (which incorporates grapefruit bitters), or our  Pink Grapefruit Highball recipe (which incorporates Fever-Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit). Another more unique way to incorporate grapefruit would be with a grapefruit oleo-saccharum. Grapefruit oleo-saccharum is a syrup made from muddling the citrus peel or zest along with sugar. The muddling releases oils from the grapefruit peel, which creates a much more concentrated and aromatic syrup (when compared to a simple syrup). We offer a recipe on how to make grapefruit oleo-saccharum on our website, along with an Old-Fashioned cocktail riff you can make using it. 

Grapefruit is a great lower-sugar citrus option that adds a bright and refreshing balance (and color) to cocktails. We hope you enjoy the complex flavors this citrus can bring to your craft cocktailing adventures. Cheers!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on February 23, 2026.

Three bottles of Amaro next to a bottle of Revolution Rye
By in Blog, News & Blog Comments Off on Amaro: A Bittersweet Italian Herbal Liqueur

Amaro: A Bittersweet Italian Herbal Liqueur

You’ve heard how great cocktails have a balance of bitter and sweet. On the bittersweet side of things, Amaro liqueurs are a popular option. Amaro means “bitter” in Italian, and this bittersweet Italian herbal liqueur is traditionally referred to as a digestivo. A digestivo is a liqueur thought to aid in digestion due to its combination of ingredients such as macerated herbs, roots (like gentian), citrus peels, flowers and alcohol. 

Here, we wanted to offer an overview on some of the popular Amaro’s we incorporate in our cocktails, as well as share some cocktail recipes we’ve made using them.

Amaro Nonino®

A 100% vegetal product first created in 1933, Amaro Nonino® is a unique blend of herbs, spices, fruit, berries and roots, all “enriched with ÙE® Nonino Grape Distillate, aged more than 12 months in barriques and small casks” (Amaro Nonino Quintessentia®- the All Natural Italian Amaro, 2023). As a digestivo, you can enjoy this award-winning liqueur on its own at room temperature, but the bittersweet blend of this Amaro works incredibly well in popular cocktails like the Paper Plane, as well. 

Try Amaro Nonino in our recipes below:

PAPER PLANE
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-3/4 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-3/4 oz. of Aperol
-3/4 oz. of Amaro Nonino
-3/4 oz. of Fresh Lemon Juice

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with lots of ice. Shake hard until frost appears on the shaker tin. Double strain the drink into a Coupe or Martini glass.

SPRING FLING
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1 oz. of First Run Rum
-1 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-1 oz. of cinnamon and strawberry infused Aperol
-1 oz. of Amaro Nonino
-3-4 dashes of El Guapo Summer Berries Bitters
-Fever Tree Sparking Pink Grapefruit (to top)
-lemon twist garnish

Instructions:
In a shaker with ice, combine all ingredients except the Fever Tree. Shake for 15 seconds, then double train into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with Fever Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit. Add a straw, and a twist of lemon.

To make cinnamon and strawberry-infused Aperol, add a cinnamon stick to one bottle of Aperol. Give it a shake, then let it sit for one day. After one day, remove the cinnamon. In a Mason jar, combine the cinnamon infused Aperol with a handful of rinsed strawberries. Shake once daily for a week. Strain out the strawberries using a cheesecloth, then store the infused Aperol until ready to use.

Amaro di Angostura®

No doubt you’ve heard of Angostura Bitters—one of the most common bitters added to cocktails. Amaro di Angostura® is made by the same company. They blend alcohol with spices and bitter herbs, which “are left to marry for 3 months” (ANGOSTURA® aromatic bitters, 2023). On the palate, you’ll pick up on cinnamon and toasted caramel, which adds great flavor to cocktails. It can also be enjoyed alone.

Try Amaro di Angostura in our recipe below:

OVER THE GAP
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon or Maple Cask Rum
-1/2 oz. of Amaro di Angostura
-3/4 oz. of lime juice
-3/4 oz. of simple syrup
-lime wheel and nutmeg

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a rocks glass over pebbled or crushed ice. Garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel and freshly grated nutmeg.

Cynar Amaro®

Cynar Amaro® is a product of the Campari Group. The incredibly distinctive flavor of this Amaro is due to the proprietary mix of 13 herbs and botanicals, including artichoke (cynara). Created in 1952, this liqueur “doesn’t really taste like artichoke” but is bittersweet with notes of caramel, toffee and dried fruit (Francesco Muzzopappa, n.d.). It can be enjoyed before a meal as an aperitivo or as a digestivo, but it also makes a great liqueur alternative to Campari.

Try Cynar Amaro in our recipe below:

CYNARA
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Revolution Rye
-1/2 oz. of Cynar Amaro
-1/2 oz. of Linchpin Aperitivo (or Aperol)
-Angostura ice cube

Instructions:
Add an Angostura ice cube to a large rocks glass. Pour the Revolution Rye right over the ice cube, followed by Cynar Amaro then the Aperitivo or Aperol. Twist an orange peel over the top of the glass, then add as a garnish.

To make an Angostura ice cube, add 2-3 dashes of Angostura Bitters to water, and freeze in a large ice cube mold. Note that adding more bitters may prevent freezing.

Amaro Montenegro®

The complex flavors of Amaro Montenegro® are thanks to their proprietary blend of 40 botanicals, which includes ingredients like orange peels, eucalyptus and vanilla (Montenegro, n.d.). First produced in 1885, this Amaro has a dark brown color with a bitter and spicy flavor.  As with the other Amaro options, the bitter flavor here makes it an obvious choice for a digestivo, but it also adds distinctive flavor to cocktails.

Try Amaro Montenegro in our recipe below:

SPRING SHOWERS
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz. of Rum 44
- 1/2 oz. of Amaro Montenegro
- 1/2 oz. of Simple Syrup 
- 3/4 oz. of Fresh Lemon
- 2 Dashes of Peychaud's Bitters

Instructions:
Muddle 3 blackberries with simple syrup. Dry shake all ingredients, then strain the contents over crushed ice. Add a blackberry & lemon peel for garnish.

Amaro Averna Siciliano®

With a history 150 years strong, Amaro Averna is a product of Sicily with a "bittersweet taste, carrying hints of orange and licorice, balanced with notes of myrtle, juniper berries, rosemary and sage” (Amaro Averna: Taste and Tradition of the Sicilian Liqueur | Amaro Averna, 2024). This dark brown Amaro, with a hint of red, can be enjoyed by itself as a digestivo over ice. With the bitter blend of licorice, herbs and citrus, it also adds noteworthy flavor to cocktails.

Try Amaro Averna in our recipes below:

PX PALMETTO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of PX Rum
-1/2 oz. of Carpano Antica
-1/2 oz. of Amaro Averna
-1/2 oz. of Cocchi di Torino
-Luxardo cherry

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir briefly. Strain contents into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.

COLD BREW COFFEE NEGRONI
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of Revolution Rye
-3/4 oz. of Amaro Averna
-1/2 oz. of Campari
-1/2 oz. of cold brew coffee

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass over ice. Stir for about 10 seconds, then strain into a double rocks glass over a large ice cube. Add an orange peel for garnish.

Fernet-Branca®

This popular Amaro has a strong and distinctive flavor. First created in 1845, Fernet-Branca® is made from a secret blend of 27 herbs and botanicals which is then aged in oak barrels for a year (Homepage, n.d.). It is less sweet than other Amaro options, making it a great liqueur for those who appreciate a bitter flavor. As with all the Amaro’s on our list, it can be enjoyed as a digestivo, or incorporated into cocktails.

Try Fernet-Branca in our recipes below:

TORONTO
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-2 oz. of Burnt Rock Bourbon
-1/4 oz. of Fernet Branca
-1/4 oz. of  simple syrup
-2 dashes of Angostura bitters

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass. Add ice, and stir for about 30 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Express an orange peel over the glass, then add as a garnish.

A Midday Reviver cocktail on the Mad River Distillers bar with a bottle of First Run Rum and Fernet in the background

MIDDAY REVIVER
Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail:
-1.5 oz. of First Run Rum
-3/4 oz. of ginger syrup
-3/4 oz. of lime juice
-1 bottle of Fever Tree Ginger Ale
-1/2 oz. of Fernet Branca

Instructions:
Add the First Run Rum, ginger syrup and lime juice to a shaker with ice. Shake for 15 seconds, then strain into a Collins glass over ice. Top with Fever Tree Ginger Ale, leaving 1 inch at the top of the glass. Garnish with a floater of Fernet Branca.

The alcohol base in an Italian Amaro is typically a neutral spirit, a grape brandy or wine. The alcohol content and flavor profiles on Amaro’s can vary depending on the producer, but given the blend of natural and earthy ingredients, all are considered to aid in digestion. Some Amaro brands have a more bittersweet flavor, while others are more bitter, so you can find an Amaro to suit your preferences.

If you enjoy making cocktails at home, we hope this list of popular Amaro liqueurs—and some cocktails you can make using each—will prove useful as you further explore the great wide world of craft cocktailing. Happy mixing, shaking and sipping!

References:
Amaro Nonino Quintessentia®- the all natural Italian Amaro. (2023, February 2). Grappa Nonino. https://www.grappanonino.it/en/amaro-and-liqueurs/amaro-nonino-quintessentia/

ANGOSTURA® aromatic bitters. (2023, November 25). Amaro di ANGOSTURA® - Angostura. Angostura. https://angosturabitters.com/portfolio/amaro-di-angostura/

Francesco Muzzopappa. (n.d.). Cynar. Campari Group. Retrieved January 31, 2026, from https://www.camparigroup.com/en/spiritheque/cynar

Montenegro, A. (n.d.). The Revelation. unearthing pure essence. Amaro Montenegro. https://www.amaromontenegro.com/en

Amaro Averna: Taste and tradition of the Sicilian liqueur | Amaro Averna. (2024, May 28). Amaro Averna. https://www.amaroaverna.com/product/

Homepage. (n.d.). Fernet Branca. https://us.fernetbranca.com/

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on February 2, 2026.

By in Blog Comments Off on Caffeinated Coffee Cocktails

Caffeinated Coffee Cocktails

For those of us who drink coffee, it holds a special and almost ritualistic place in our hearts. Made from roasted coffee beans and sometimes affectionately referred to as “brown bean juice,” this warm (or iced) beverage is often part of a daily morning routine. The routine develops largely due to caffeine, which has a stimulating effect on our bodies. As a stimulant, it helps keep you awake, providing the requisite energy to get you through your work day. As day turns to night, however, caffeine is less desirable for the same reason. 

If you’ve ever wanted just a little bit of caffeine in the evening, consider a coffee cocktail. Most coffee cocktails include just a couple ounces or less, so the caffeine intake is much smaller than a full cup of coffee. An important note about the combination of coffee and alcohol is that because coffee is a stimulant, it can somewhat counteract the depressant effects of alcohol. 

Just as coffee comes in various forms (cappuccino, latte, espresso, etc.), coffee cocktails can come in various forms, as well. Some cocktails are made with hot coffee, some with cold brew coffee, others with espresso, coffee liqueur or coffee powder. Here, we share a collection of our top caffeinated coffee cocktail recipes made with our rum and whiskey spirits:

CAFE SWIZZLE

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail: 
-1.5 oz. of First Rum Rum or Vanilla Rum 
-1 oz. of coffee liqueur
-1.5 oz. of coconut cream
-grated nutmeg
-espresso beans

Instructions:
In a shaker, add all ingredients without ice. Shake for about 8-15 seconds. Pour contents into a Collins glass over crushed ice and swizzle. Garnish with grated nutmeg and espresso beans.

DIRTY CHAI MARTINI

Ingredients - Yields 4 Cocktails: 
-4 oz. of Rum 44
-4 chai tea bags
-1 cup of filtered water
-1 tablespoon of maple syrup
-2 oz. of cold brew coffee
-1 cup of milk
-Star Anise

Instructions:
Heat the water to almost boiling and steep the tea for 4 minutes. Discard the tea bags. Add in the maple syrup. Stir to combine and set to the side to cool. In a shaker, pour espresso, rum, milk, and cooled chai over ice. Shake for about 8-10 seconds. Double strain into 4 martini glasses, and garnish with star anise.

SPANISH NEGRONI

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail: 
-1.5 oz. of PX RUM
-1/2 oz. of Cappelletti
-3/4 oz. of Carpano Antica
-1/4 oz. of cold brew coffee

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice. Stir briefly, then strain into a large rocks glass. Garnish with a grapefruit peel.

RYERISH COFFEE

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail: 
-1.5 oz. of Revolution Rye Whiskey
-1 oz. of demerara syrup
-hot coffee
-2 oz. of whipping cream
-1/2 oz. of Benedictine (or cinnamon syrup)
-cinnamon

Instructions:
In an Irish coffee mug, add the Revolution Rye, demerara syrup and hot coffee. Stir to combine ingredients. In a shaker, combine the whipping cream and Benedictine (or cinnamon syrup), and shake hard for a full minute until whipped cream is formed. Top the coffee with the whipped cream, then grate fresh cinnamon on top.

ESPRESSO MARTINI

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail: 
-1.25 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-1/4 oz. of Vermont maple syrup
-1/2 oz. of Maple Creme Liqueur
-2 oz. of cold brew coffee

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake for 10 seconds, then strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with cinnamon or cocoa.

Boozy Dalgona Coffee on a table with a bottle of Vanilla Rum

BOOZY DALGONA COFFEE

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail: 
-1.5 oz. of Vanilla Rum
-2 tablespoons of instant coffee
-1 tablespoon of espresso powder
-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
-2 tablespoons of hot water
-3 oz. of milk

Instructions:
Combine instant coffee, espresso powder, sugar and hot water in a bowl. Whisk until fluffy. It takes many minutes to get a thick, fluffy consistency, which is important for layering. Combine Vanilla Rum and milk in a shaker over ice, shake lightly. Strain the shaker into a glass, then add the whipped coffee on top.

COLD BREW COFFEE NEGRONI

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail: 
-1.5 oz. of Revolution Rye
-3/4 oz. of Averna
-1/2 oz. of Campari
-1/2 oz. of cold brew coffee

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass over ice. Stir for about 8-12 seconds. Strain into a double rocks glass over a large cube, then add an orange peel for garnish.

As you can see from the recipes above, both rum and whiskey mix incredibly well with coffee. Our Revolution Rye (with hints of coffee and a cocoa finish), adds a distinctive but complementary flavor to coffee. Our Vanilla Rum (infused with Tahitian vanilla beans), adds great aromatics and flavor, which made our Espresso Martini one of our most popular cocktails. You can’t go wrong with any of our spirits, but these two are a great place to start when it comes to making caffeinated coffee cocktails at home. 

Do you have a favorite coffee cocktail recipe? Share yours by tagging us on social @madriverdistillers. Cheers!


Written and published by Brianne Lucas on January 19, 2026.