In the last couple years, we've seen the rise of hipster culture in almost everything. But one of the most prolific areas of this influence has been in the bar scene. Crafty cocktails, long forgotten liqueurs and dainty decorations have littered small bars across the country and even around the world. Take a look at this five most well known creations.
1. Mason jars.
Mason jars are literally everywhere these days, bars especially. Everything from beer to martinis is now coming in small and large jars. This twist on old favorites brings in a fun twist on the traditional, occasionally stuffy presentation that we've grown accustom to and presents a much more casual feel to your drinking experience.
Having a party? Consider setting up a Sangria or Mojito station featuring this multifaceted containers for that casually chic vibe.
2. Infuse-Booze.
Would you like to try apricot-tamarind gin? Vanilla and honey-infused whiskey? Bars everywhere are starting to create these homemade concoctions, adding subtle flavors to some of the most population cocktails.
Interested in creating your own? Turns out, this hipster twist is super easy to do on your own! Simply grab your preferred liquor (vodka and gin are great places to start), some fruits and spices, and a large canning jar. Slice up your favorite fruits and add them to the jar along with any desired herbs or spices. Then, simply fill the jar the rest of the way with your desired boozy beverage. Let the concoction sit for 3-5 days, shaking daily to get the most of the flavorings, and presto! You've got your own, unique liquor ready to go.
3. Absinthe.
The green fairy has come into favor once again with the young hipsters. Absinthe traveled mostly under the radar since its shining moment in the 1920s, as the preferred liqueur for writers, artists and other creators. It's been rumored to have psychedelic effects, giving it its unique 'bad boy' reputation. And although the rumors have since been debunked, the drink is still remembered for its legendary beginnings.
Either had traditionally with a slow steam of water over a sugar cube or served with champagne, this mythical liqueur is staging a steady comeback.
Looking for something to really spice things up? Why not try a Monkey Gland? This cocktail is a silly, sweet surprise made with gin, absinthe, orange juice, simple syrup and grenadine and is sure to tickle your taste buds.
4. Moscow Mules.
People have gone back and forth on whether or not a Moscow Mule is vastly overrated. And as it turns out, the beverage itself has nothing to do with Moscow, or mules. But regardless of the criticism, hordes of hipsters still cram into bars for these copper-mugged creations. The traditional Mule is made with vodka, ginger beer and lime, but there's quite a bit of wiggle room with this 1940s staple. Almost any liqueur can be substituted in place of vodka for a whole new experience.
Variations include a Kentucky Mule, which switches out vodka for bourbon, a Mexican Mule, which uses tequila, and even an Irish Mule, which dips into Irish whiskey.
And if that's not enough, you can always add fresh berries and cucumber for a summery Garden Mule, or lavender for a slightly more polished Mule.
5. Microbreweries.
Now this one, at least in my opinion, takes the cake, especially if you're a local. Microbreweries have been taking over the world, and hipsters are eating it up. Unlike our grocery store staples, microbreweries have ditched the giant operation on gone back to their roots. Focused on technique, quality and flavor, and made in small batches, it’s a prime example of the hipster-drinking ideal, especially for us Bellingham, Washington, residents. We've got prime access to some great local craft brews such, as Aslan, Wander Brewing and many more. A quick Google search will point you in the direction of some local microbreweries near your town.
What do you think? Are these hipster favorites a valued addition or an overrated add-on?
