What The Fika
In collaboration with Vikre Distillery and Cedar & Stone Sauna. There are few cultures more steeped in the world of coffee than the fine folks of Nordic countries. Coffee is not just for morning rituals either - as people look for moments to squeeze a coffee in as a time to slow down and savor the moment. In Sweden, the name for this coffee break is Fika, and it is a chance to recharge and connect with friends, much like a happy hour.
This cocktail fuses two beautiful social rituals - Fika and happy hour. It started from the idea of an aquavit espresso martini, and the cold brew coffee made me think of how much I enjoy cold brew topped with tonic water.
To balance the bitterness from the aquavit, coffee, and Sauna Water Nordic Spruce - a combination of sweet vermouth, a touch of apricot liqueur, and a touch of chocolate bitters were added. Each of these flavors complements and uplifts the flavors in the coffee, giving it additional richness and notes of red fruit that go wonderfully with the spice of aquavit and the alpine botanicals of Sauna Water.
What The Fika Recipe:
1 oz. Vikre Voyageur Aquavit (Mocktail: Sub Seedlip Garden 108)
1 oz. Sweet Vermouth (Mocktail: Sub Free Spirits Vermouth Rosso)
1 oz. Cold Brew Coffee (or Cooled Espresso)
1/4 oz. Luxardo Apricot Liqueur (Mocktail: Sub apricot juice)
2 Dashes of Chocolate Bitters
Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled glass and stir gently to combine. Garnish with a cocktail cherry or an orange peel.
Photos by: Cedar & Stone Sauna
