Top Trends: Drinking Vinegar

We first shared with you recipes for drinking vinegar in our Timeless Virtues of Vinegar article in 2014 when we published this recipe for a Lambrusco Shrub. Drinking vinegar has been labelled as one of the top health trends of the year for 2016. Whether you are interested in the health benefits or are just curious and interested in following the trend, here are some ways to jump on the proverbial bandwagon.

Simple Splashes

Adding a splash of any of our vinegars to a glass of sparkling or plain water makes for an instant, flavorful beverage that is thirst-quenching and a healthy alternative to sodas and artificially flavored water. Some of our favorites for this method include our line of Agretti Vinegar in which the fruit and vinegar are already macerated together. Try Plum, Cranberry, or Raspberry to find your favorite flavor.

Cocktail Trend

One of the hottest trends right now is using vinegars in cocktails. An easy way to replicate this at home is with champagne or sparkling wine. As a splash of Peach White Balsamic Vinegar for a homemade Bellini. Strawberry Balsamic Vinegar is another perfect pairing for sparkling wines.

In Europe, beer is often served with flavored syrups. Try adding a splash of Pomegranate Balsamic Vinegar or Sicilian Lemon White Balsamic Vinegar to your favorite beer.

Make Your Own

More and more commercial vinegar drinks are popping up on shelves. These drinks, usually a take on the vintage switchel* recipe, are easy to stir up at home. Many of these store bought drinks utilize apple cider vinegar and a natural sweetener. The vinegars at The Olive Tap are sweeter and more palatable than a cider vinegar and can be used alone in the concoction. If it is still a bit sour for you, feel free to add a drop of maple syrup or honey. Fresh squeezed fruit juices are an excellent addition.

*Switchels are old time farmers drinks used to quench and replenish hard-working farmers in the summer heat. These are a natural and healthier to sports drinks and the like.

Try these at home :

1/2 cup Mango White Riserva Balsamic Vinegar or Pineapple White Balsamic Vinegar

1/4 cup freshly-squeezed orange or other citrus juice

1 Tablespoons honey, optional

Mix or shake well the above ingredients together. Store in refrigerator for up to 10 days and dilute with sparkling or plain water when ready to serve.

1/2 cup Granny Smith Apple White Balsamic Vinegar or Pear White Balsamic Vinegar

1/4 cup fresh apple juice

1/4 cup lemon juice

Mix or shake well the above ingredients together. Store in refrigerator for up to 10 days and dilute with sparkling or plain water when ready to serve.