Redwood Empire & Shaker & Spoon: New Frontiers in Whiskey Cocktails
At Redwood Empire, we believe that great whiskey deserves to be experienced in new and exciting ways. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our latest partnership with Shaker & Spoon, the subscription cocktail box service dedicated to delivering unique, handcrafted cocktail recipes right to your door. Together, we’re bringing whiskey lovers a chance to explore the versatility of Lost Monarch American Whiskey through creative and expertly crafted cocktails like When Apricots Fly.
With Shaker & Spoon’s New Frontiers 3: Forever Forward cocktail box, you can now mix the perfect whiskey cocktails at home, all featuring Lost Monarch American Whiskey. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or just getting started, this partnership is your ticket to elevating your whiskey experience.
When Apricots Fly Recipe: A Taste of What’s Possible
One of the standout creations from our collaboration with Shaker & Spoon is the When Apricots Fly cocktail. This refreshing, fruit-forward drink is a delicious way to showcase Lost Monarch’s balanced blend of rye and bourbon.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Combine the whiskey, apricot-apple syrup, and lemon juice in a shaker with ice.
- Shake until well-chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a whiskey-macerated apricot.
Bartender Spotlight: Sharon Yeung on the Versatility of Lost Monarch
As part of the Shaker & Spoon partnership, we were lucky enough to collaborate with talented bartenders who truly understand the spirit behind Lost Monarch American Whiskey. One of those bartenders, Sharon Yeung, brings her Bay Area roots and years of cocktail expertise to the table. Her approach to whiskey cocktails aligns perfectly with the versatility of Lost Monarch.
“When I first learned about Redwood Empire Lost Monarch Small Batch Whiskey Blend through friends, I was immediately struck by how adaptable it is,” Sharon explains. “This whiskey is named for the world’s largest coastal redwood tree, and much like the tree, it stands tall with its own presence. You get the best of both worlds—the spicy bite of rye and the round sweetness of bourbon. Loads of vanilla and caramel lead to a peppery finish that’s persistent, but never overpowering.”
Sharon’s appreciation for Lost Monarch highlights what makes this whiskey perfect for cocktails like When Apricots Fly. The balance of rich sweetness and subtle spice makes it versatile enough for any mixologist, whether you’re experimenting at home or behind the bar.
Tasting Notes for Lost Monarch American Whiskey
Lost Monarch American Whiskey is more than just a blend—it’s an experience in complexity and balance. This unique combination of 55% rye and 45% bourbon creates a whiskey that speaks to both sides of the spectrum, offering sweetness and spice in perfect harmony.
- Color: A striking dark amber with a slightly orange cast, reflecting the whiskey’s depth and maturity.
- Nose: The aroma is rich and complex, with layers of clove and cinnamon up front, balanced by notes of vanilla, orange citrus zest, and butterscotch. There’s also a subtle hint of sandalwood, adding an earthy, intriguing undertone.
- Palate: On the palate, Lost Monarch showcases a beautiful interplay of flavors. The sweetness from corn and the spiciness of rye come together, almost like maple syrup, coating the mouth with a rich, satisfying flavor. As you continue to sip, notes of vanilla and caramel emerge, leading to a peppery finish that is persistent, yet subdued.
- Mash Bill: This whiskey is a 55% rye, 45% bourbon blend, which allows for both the bold spice of rye and the smooth, sweet characteristics of bourbon to shine.
- Age: The blend includes both bourbon and rye whiskeys aged between 3 to 14 years, creating a mature and balanced whiskey with layers of depth and character.
More Whiskey Cocktails to Explore After When Apricots Fly
If you’re loving the bright, balanced flavors of When Apricots Fly, here are four more cocktails that highlight the versatility and fruit-forward potential of Redwood Empire Whiskey:
Black Manhattan: A refined twist on the classic Manhattan, this cocktail balances the rich, bold flavor of Lost Monarch with the bitter-sweet complexity of Cynar. Perfect for those looking to explore deeper, slightly herbal notes with their whiskey.
Sprouting Spritz: This refreshing highball pairs Lost Monarch with Aperol, offering a vibrant, fruity, and slightly bitter take on the classic spritz. Ideal for fans of lighter, refreshing cocktails.
Gold Rush: Featuring Emerald Giant Rye, the Gold Rush blends honey sweetness with bright citrus and a subtle spice, echoing the smooth, sweet-tart balance of When Apricots Fly.
Sequoia Sour: A modern riff on the whiskey sour, this cocktail mixes Pipe Dream Bourbon with lemon for a beautifully balanced sweet-and-sour sip—perfect for those who enjoy citrus-driven cocktails.