Sweet does not begin to describe these new nonalcoholic mixers, with a vinegar base, from Andy Ricker of the Pok Pok restaurants in Portland, Ore. Originally formulated as Asian-style “drinking vinegars,” Mr. Ricker now calls them cordials, to combine with sparkling water for a dry refresher, or to use in cocktails. I’d go even further with some: Flavors like the ginger, Thai basil, Oregon berry and tangerine with sea salt could dress fresh fruit or add an intriguing note to a pan sauce or salad dressing. But use them sparingly: Though they have a tart edge, their sweetness dominates. There are 11 fruit and spice flavors.
Som Cane Vinegar Cordials, $19.99 for 500 milliliters (16.9 ounces), somcordial.com.
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