🐼 x🍹Baijiu Cocktail 017: The Northern Bridge, @Vavoom in Den Haag

The Northern Bridge

City: Den Haag, Netherlands

Den Haag, the city of contrasts, where the modern architecture of governmental buildings blends seamlessly with the rich history of Dutch culture. The salty breeze from the North Sea carries a hint of mystery as it winds through the cobbled streets, eventually finding its way into the heart of the city—Vavoom, a hidden gem where the tiki spirit meets Northern European sensibilities.

Mixologist: Arne from Den Helder

Arne, a seasoned mixologist with over a decade of experience, brings a touch of his maritime roots to every drink he crafts. His hands, skilled from years of perfecting the art, move with precision as he balances tradition with innovation, creating cocktails that tell a story. At Vavoom, he finds a canvas as eclectic as his own style, merging the exotic with the familiar.

Bar: Vavoom, Den Haag, a fine tiki bar.

Vavoom is not just a bar; it's an escape. Step inside, and you're transported from the cool, calculated streets of Den Haag to a tropical paradise, where the warm glow of tiki torches lights the way to a night of revelry. The bar is a sanctuary of vibrant colors, tribal masks, and the rhythmic sound of waves—crafted not by the sea, but by the clinking of glasses.

Try their special rum collection, you will love them.

Cocktail Analysis: The Northern Bridge

Appearance:
The cocktail stands as a visual feast—a delicate amber hue that hints at the richness within. The rim of the glass is kissed with a spritz of lemon, while vibrant, edible flowers float atop, like petals drifting on a calm sea, adding a touch of natural elegance to the drink.

Nosing:
As you lean in, the first note to greet you is the unmistakable earthiness of Baijiu, bringing with it a subtle smokiness, reminiscent of ancient rituals. This is swiftly followed by the sweet and creamy aroma of vanilla, which dances with the herbal complexity of Galliano, all underlined by the fresh, zesty brightness of lemon juice.

Tasting:
On the palate, the drink unfolds like a journey. The bold, distinctive flavor of Baijiu leads the charge, its intensity softened by the silky smoothness of Monin Vanilla. The Galliano introduces a burst of herbal warmth, with its blend of Mediterranean spices and anise, while the lemon juice provides a sharp counterpoint, cutting through the richness and leaving a crisp, clean finish. The edible flowers add a subtle, fragrant note, making each sip a well-rounded experience.

Inspiration:
"The Northern Bridge" is more than a drink—it's a connection between worlds. Inspired by Arne’s maritime roots and the tiki allure of Vavoom, this cocktail bridges the gap between the distant cultures of China and Italy, brought together by the spirit of adventure that defines both the sea and the land. It’s a drink that invites you to embark on a journey, wherever you may be.

Home Preparation of The Northern Bridge

Ingredients:

• 40 ml Baijiu
• 15 ml Monin Vanilla Syrup
• 25 ml Galliano Liqueur
• 20 ml Fresh Lemon Juice
• Edible flowers for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Combine the ingredients: Pour the Baijiu, Monin Vanilla Syrup, Galliano, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the shaker.
3. Shake well: Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish: Float a few edible flowers on top for a visually stunning presentation.
6. Serve: Enjoy your Northern Bridge, and let the flavors take you on a voyage.

The Northern Bridge, with its complex yet harmonious flavors, is an adventure in a glass, perfectly reflecting the creative spirit of Arne and the vibrant energy of Vavoom in Den Haag.