This past December, East Van welcomed new kid on the block Resurrection Spirits to Franklin Street. Ever since, the distillery has been introducing locals to their white rye. The stuff features prominently on the menu at their in-house bar, which is headed up by award-winning bartender David Wolowidnyk. Whisky will come later (once aging requirements are met); in the meantime, they are showing just how versatile their un-aged white rye can be when used in cocktails.

For example, Wolowidnyk recently added a Rock ‘n Rye cocktail to the menu. The drink is inspired by classic Rock ‘n Rye — a sugar and spice-infused rye created and served in early American saloons. The “Rock” comes from the rock candy that was used to cut the spiciness of the young rye that was served at the time. During the temperance movement, some attempted to bottle the beverage for medicinal purposes in order to skirt liquor taxes, not to mention the disapproving eyes of those seeking prohibition.

Wolowidnyk plays with the basic elements of a classic Rock ‘n Rye – spirit, spice, citrus, sweetener – to create a distinct cocktail that highlights the unique flavour profile of the Resurrection product. Combining white rye, apricot liqueur, ginger cordial, bitters and orange zest, the updated riff pays its respects to a classic while differing just enough to show a whole new range of flavours available when playing with the un-aged spirit.

Resurrection Spirits

Neighbourhood: East Vancouver

1672 Franklin St.

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