Asheville, NC – While cocktail trends may ebb and flow, certain timeless styles remain steadfast in their popularity.
With the arrival of spring and summer cocktail menus, the Citizen Times is eager to uncover the preferred libations of its readers when frequenting local bars and restaurants.
Mitchell Labuda, bar lead at Posana and seasoned bartender across various Asheville establishments, has observed shifts in customer preferences over the years. He notes that cocktail choices often vary based on factors such as age, socioeconomic background, and whether one is a visitor or a local. Labuda emphasizes the city’s commitment to providing visitors with a unique experience, a sentiment echoed by many establishments.
While numerous trends have come and gone, Labuda emphasizes the enduring appeal of classic cocktails such as the espresso martini, margarita, classic martini, and Old Fashioned, which continue to dominate bar orders. These traditional concoctions offer a sense of familiarity and accessibility, unlike modern cocktails featuring unfamiliar ingredients. However, Labuda suggests that patrons are increasingly open to experimenting with new recipes, provided they understand the components involved.
At Posana, Labuda and his team strive to curate a cocktail menu that strikes a balance between creativity and approachability. Each drink is carefully crafted to highlight unique flavor profiles, with detailed descriptions of less common ingredients to guide patrons’ choices.
Labuda shares his personal favorite warm weather libation, the Chartreuse Swizzle, a refreshing blend of green chartreuse, pineapple and fresh lime juices, falernum, and a generous dose of bitters, served over crushed ice. Reflecting Asheville’s diverse population, Labuda suggests that the Boilermaker, a beer cocktail consisting of a pint of beer served with a shot of whiskey, encapsulates the city’s broad spectrum of residents, from beer enthusiasts to connoisseurs of fine spirits.
For those seeking a more unconventional option, Labuda recommends the Fernet Sour, featuring Fernet-Branca, green chartreuse, lime juice, and simple syrup. This cocktail deviates from traditional norms and incorporates locally sourced ingredients such as Appalachian herbs and botanicals found in Fernet, resulting in a uniquely intriguing flavor profile.
Now, it’s your turn to voice your preference! Cast your vote for your all-time favorite cocktail in the Citizen Times’ poll, open from March 20 to March 31. Results will be revealed on citizen-times.com during the week of April 1. Stay tuned for insights into the latest trends observed by local bartenders across the city.
