Dazed & Infused

Sunshine in a Glass

Ambling the streets of downtown Newport during the busy summer season always leaves me parched, a little dazed and in need of a cool beverage. As I peer out from under my sunhat, I weigh my options in order of importance: quality of drinks, speed of service and proximity to the water. Scanning my options, the glint of a radiant Mason jar full of lemonade catches my eye: Next stop, Smoke House on Scott’s Wharf.

I quickly learn that the drink I’m after is called the Señor Sage, a lemony twist on a margarita, decked with plenty of ice, fragrant sage leaves and lemon wheels.

The balance of fresh citrus and pungent herbs is piqued by triple sec (sweet citrus liqueur) and a refreshing splash of soda water to top off the drink. Bubbles pop like tiny sparks on my palate and, once again, I am amazed by the power of simplicity. Cocktails don’t need to be complicated in order to be delicious.

The genius of Beverage Director Shawn Westhoven’s cocktails lies in his efficient use of fresh ingredients. Take The Dandy Lion, a delightfully elevated Arnold Palmer (lemonade, iced black tea) with chamomile-infused vodka and a hint of Bärenjäger, a sweet and gently spiced German honey liqueur. To get the most mileage out of the dried chamomile, Westhoven infuses chamomile tea in vodka, an optimal way to capture the earthy, golden floral aromatics of chamomile without the labor of muddling or crafting a simple syrup. The season’s best cocktails are straightforward and easy sipping, so set aside your muddlers, sit back and find a seat in the shade.