“Consumers are looking for new and safe ways to consume cannabinoids,” says Victoria Pustynsky, founder of hemp-based Aurora Elixirs in Oregon, who feels there are different CBD-infused beverages for different occasions. “We favor the aperitif occasion — when you are winding down from a busy day of work and recalibrating for the evening ahead. Aurora Elixirs can bring balance and restoration as either a substitute for or an enhancement of an alcoholic beverage.”
In that spirit, the CBD-infused Aurora Elixirs sparkling tonics were designed with the intention of that aperitif-style spritz, but with the ideal flavors and aromas of cannabis. “We looked at the dominant aromas in cannabis — floral, pine, citrus, spice, wood — and combined botanical extracts with full spectrum extracts into a balanced and refreshing tonic,” Gold Bee adds.
In a partnership with bartender Jon Lewis-DeMarquez of Portland’s Thai mainstay Paadee, Aurora Elixirs’ Rosemary Grapefruit is used here to elevate a classic Hemingway Daiquiri to a higher level.
“Measured amounts of CBD can work really nicely with a well-crafted cocktail,” CBD experts at Gold Bee say. “In this interpretation of a daiquiri, the piney botanical aromas of our Rosemary Grapefruit tonic complement the very well-balanced tart fruit and sharp citrus of the cocktail. A great float with a bit of added effervescence.”
Focusing on the tart and citrus flavors of the Rosemary Grapefruit and sweetness of the rum, Pustynsky says this cocktail would pair perfectly with anything spicy from the Paadee menu, or from your favorite Thai takeout institution.
Hemingway Daiquiri
Makes 1 cocktail
1 1/2 ounces white rum
1/4 ounce Combier Pamplemousse
1 teaspoon maraschino liqueur
3/4 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce Aurora Elixirs Rosemary Grapefruit
2 dashes absinthe
Garnish: lime wedge
In a mixing tin, combine all of the ingredients together. Add ice and shake, then strain into a coupe and garnish with the lime.
