Ahh, spruce. Some might think using spruce as an ingredient is a little weird … and it’s certainly interesting. Spruce tips (the new growth on the tree) are tender and bright green. They’re edible and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. They’re also high in vitamin C when used fresh, frozen, or dried. Spruce tips are often steeped into teas and syrups, just as we’ve done with our Clarksburg Spruced Up Hard Cider.
Spruce plays well with gin, whiskey, and mezcal by adding complexity and aroma. We put it in our Spruce Gin Fizz cocktail because the botanical notes in gin (think: juniper, citrus peel, herbs) pair naturally with spruce. The apple base of the cider also adds some acidity, while simple syrup keeps things from getting too bitter. A squeeze of lemon ties it all together.
Enjoy a Spruce Gin Fizz made with Clarksburg Spruced Up Hard Cider any time of the year, but it’s especially delicious for your next winter get-together.
