Shrub - To Drink!

Local Libations: As far back as colonial days, a "shrub" was a popular beverage made using vinegar for the preservation of fruit. The odd name, though, has no relation to nature - it was more likely derived from the Arabic word sharab, which is translated as "to drink." With both tart and sweet notes, shrubs today can be a versatile staple at any bar.  We make our cranberry shrub with berries from Vermont Cranberry Company, and mash them with raw sugar until they turn into a thick syrup.  After a few days, we add raw apple cider vinegar, and the magic begins, as the cranberries bring the sweet and pungent flavors together.  When mixed with Green Mountain Organic Vodka and topped with soda water, the refreshing cocktail with its mellowing flavors is slightly reminiscent of Kombucha, but with a kick.

Local Art:  Welcome David Smith for an exhibit of his work at Claire's, and explore his interest in the representation of light.  The opening reception is Monday, January 16, 4-6 pm.  Talk with the artist and enjoy our bar specials as well as a bite.

At the Bar: Remember our Sunday and Monday drink specials. This Sunday, January 15th we offer a $2.50 pint of Rock Art Ridge Runner, a $4 glass of Boyden Valley Seyval Blanc or Riverbend Red.  Try our Cranberry Shrub, made with Green Mountain Organic Vodka, Vermont Cranberry Company juice and cranberries, offered for $5.

Around the Galaxy: The Galaxy Bookshop is on the move! This week you will find the bookstore in the back rooms of the Granite Trust building on Mill Street. The Center for an Agricultural Economy is moving to Mill Street on Monday and Andrew and his crew at Vermont Natural Coatings will be working on the floors on Main Street to get the space next to Claire's ready for The Galaxy. Stay tuned to the move and browse at http://www.galaxybookshop.com/ - or come by to visit - we are still open for business. 

Music Notes: Singer/Songwriter Paul Cataldo joins us this Thursday, January 13th at 7:30.  Stop by and enjoy a cocktail and what musemuse.com calls "good ol' backwoods hippy-esque Country/Folk!"

Local Events: Our friends at Citizen Cider in Essex are attempting the world's first Community Supported Cidery!  When you join you can enjoy delicious cider throughout the year at a discounted rate.  Learn more about them here.

Reminders: This year, we will be open throughout January - daily after 2:30 for coffee, bar service, and baked goods, and free WiFi, with dinner reservations available from 5-9, Sundays from 5-8. We serve our special Blunch menu Sundays from 11-2. Claire's is closed every Wednesday.

We appreciate it when you use cash or a check - credit card companies charge us a fee that really adds up. Thanks to many of you we have been able to significantly reduced those fees.

Click on the image above to get a closer look!