Dry January is the practice of abstaining from drinking for the first month of the new year, post holiday season. The belief is that doing so will reset drinking practices, help detox from holiday overindulgence, and gain health benefits. This ties into the practice of focusing on wellness and starting the new year with a healthy mindset and strategy.
In tow with this, Fairmont Waterfront has teamed up with Seedlip, the world’s first non-alcoholic spirit to create a new spirit-free cocktail menu. Seedlip has been in the forefront of modern hospitality, offering a non-alcoholic spirit option in place of vodka and/or gin. For those who have never tried it, it is a clear liquid without the bite of alcohol. Its mouthfeel is more like a sparkling soda, with floral and botanical characteristic. I got medicinal notes of cardamon.
As per the press release, Seedlip is “founded by Ben Branson and inspired by 300-year-old herbal remedy recipes, Seedlip has helped redefine the non-alcoholic category, moving beyond sugary substitutes to sophisticated, botanical-driven cocktails. Together, Fairmont Waterfront and Seedlip are celebrating a new era of modern hospitality, where guests can enjoy elevated social experiences without compromise.”
This is a nationwide partnership with all Fairmont properties across Canada and is only available throughout the month of January. They are three premium, botanical-driven cocktails, as well as a tasting flight. Marketed as “Thoughtfully crafted, spirit-free cocktails for a refreshed and intentional start to the year”.
The exclusive Mindful January menu features four distinct offerings.
“Clarity” is a refreshing blend of Seedlip Agave, Cucumber Water, Grapefruit, Lavender, Ginger Beer, Dehydrated Grapefruit, and Micro Flowers. It reminded me of melon cotton candy. Bubbly and fun, it was like sipping on a dessert or soda cream.
“Warmth” features Seedlip Spice 94 with Apple, Mango Chai Lemonade, Cinnamon, Ginger, and Dehydrated Apple. This one reminded me of a breakfast apple cider, a warm start that would also make a fantastic oatmeal flavour.
And “Awaken” is a bold combination of Seedlip Grove 42, Undone Bitter Red, Coffee, Chai, Pineapple, and Expressed Orange Oil. This was the heaviest of the three options, and could replace your mid day pick me up with the essence of coffee, but far less caffeine.
Looking to try a little bit of each, order the “Reset Flight”, which offers all three creations in one tasting experience.
I often find mocktails like juice. Where without spirit, they lack depth. However, these with the Seedlip have plenty of nuance. We were able to enjoy two hours at the bar sipping on these while engaging in girl talk. I definitely find these a great option for Dry January.
ARC Restaurant
900 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3L5
604-691-1818
arcdining.com
