As soon as the calendar flips to a new year, bars and restaurants across the country clamor about their special “Dry January” options, and there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s helpful that they are reaching out to cater to clientele who might crave something more interesting than tea or juice while they’re attempting to navigate a nonalcoholic outing during January, or really anytime.
But patrons are often faced with a limited list of choices that, however creative it may be, isn’t as broad as the entire canon of classic cocktails. That’s why my interest was piqued by a new initiative from Four Walls, the intimate cocktail lounge adjacent to The Joseph Hotel. They’re calling it “Craft Your Experience.”
The process is similar to a visit to Attaboy, one of the most innovative cocktail bars in the country. At Attaboy, there isn’t a set menu. Instead, the bar team interviews each patron about what spirits they like, whether they’re in the mood for something fruity and boozy or light and savory — basically "How do you feel like drinking today?" Then they craft a cocktail on the spot, the drink of your dreams.
At Four Walls, they are offering the same experience for nonalcoholic drinks. Instead of a full interview, patrons are presented with a list of descriptive adjectives meant to spark the creativity of the mixologist as they whip up something unique. To help you study for the quiz, here are the Rorschach words you’ll have to choose from:
Bright & Zesty: Citrusy, refreshing, tangy
Rich & Indulgent: Velvety, creamy, frothy
Herbaceous & Fresh: Crisp, vibrant, grassy
Spiced & Warm: Nutty, warming, peppery
Tropical & Fruity: Juicy, exotic, tropical
Floral & Aromatic: Subtle, delicate, fragrant
Savory & Umami: Earthy, vegetal, umami
Sweet & Silky: Smooth, luscious, opulent
Playful & Effervescent: Bubbly, fizzy, spritzy
Complex & Robust: Bold, layered, sophisticated
Pick your (not) poison and put yourself in the able hands of the talented bar team at Four Walls for an experience that only lacks the kick, not the fun!
