Drinks anyone?

Part of the ongoing Oregon Bounty, there is now an "Unofficial Official Oregon Cocktail." This years selection was announced at the Oregon Bounty kick-off event in Portland. After pouring over nearly 200 recipes, two rounds of judging, seven regional finalists were selected. The recipes are a creative and enticing collection of cocktails using Oregon’s artisan distilled spirits and ingredients from throughout the state. The judges selected Hike, Fish & Go Camping Punch by Cheryl Meloy of Portland. This drink includes huckleberry syrup, Terminal Gravity IPA, Pendleton whisky and more.

Here is the recipe:
Hike, Fish & Go Camping Punch
Eastern Oregon
Cheryl Meloy, Portland

Serves 4
5 oz Pendleton Whisky (this is a Canadian Whiskey named after the Pendleton Round up)

4 oz (1/3 of 12 oz can) frozen lemonade
4 oz (1/3 of 12 oz can) frozen limeade
4 oz huckleberry syrup
2 bottles Terminal Gravity IPA
Mint sprigs for garnish

Mix together the first four ingredients in large pitcher. Slowly stir in both bottles of beer. Pour punch into a tall, ice-filled glass. Top with mint sprig and serve.

To make huckleberry syrup: Heat to a slow boil 2 cups berries (fresh or frozen; you can substitute blueberries for huckleberries) with 1 cup sugar and 2 cups water. Slow boil for 20 -30 minutes, cool slightly and strain mixture through fine mesh sieve. Work the mash to get all the fluid through the sieve before discarding the skins. You may also cool syrup and store in airtight container in the refrigerator.

“This is an easy, fun loving punch. With a warm whisky, flavorful micro brew, and a handful of wild berries, it’s a real Eastern Oregon concoction. A new twist on the youthful Hop, Skip & Go Naked and classic Whisky sour, this recipe crosses the generational gap and quenches the thirst of all revelers seeking a taste of Eastern Oregon’s high country.”

For all the finalists recipes, click here.

Part of the Bounty celebration this year was an Oregon Distiller's Guild Spirits Tasting.  The event featured a general tasting of the artisan spirits from members of the Oregon Distillers Guild, each distiller provided samples of up to two of their products. In addition, the Oregon Distillers Guild bar featured traditional and creative cocktails that incorporate Oregon spirits.

Here are some more eat and drink events happening around the state during Oregon Bounty.  We have our Oregon Bounty wine package too.  You can also order a bottle during your stay from our wine list.

My favorite beverage, let's see, I would have to say it's Pacific City water out of a hose in the back yard of The Craftsman B&B.  Just don't splash any on my feet.