up two outstanding seasonal libations , both using her own homemade , infused simple syrups , which take time to steep and develop their concentrated flavors . “ This one has rosemary , orange zest , orange juice , local maple syrup , and brown sugar ,” she says , placing the Maple Rosemary Bourbon Sour on the bar . “ It ’ s like the traditional bourbon sours with the egg white .” The first sip yields a creamy burst from the whipped egg whites , giving way to the beautifully balanced tastes of herb , citrus , and earthy , caramelly brown sugar . The Smuggler ’ s Notch Bourbon , made locally in Jeffersonville , VT , is perfectly complemented , not overwhelmed , by the lovely melding of these ingredients .
We can ’ t imagine Fall without the aroma and taste of cinnamon . Our second cocktail sampling using cinnamon simple syrup showcases the season ’ s quintessential spice along with its famous harvest companion : pumpkin ! To make her scrumptious Pumpkin Patch Martini , Jenna takes real pumpkin puree and Green Mountain Distiller ’ s Organic Vanilla Vodka made with Madagascar vanilla beans and combines them with the syrup and a maple cream liqueur . The result is an exquisite dessert martini that isn ’ t overly sweet , making it hard to not finish it all in one satisfying gulp .
While Jenna shook , poured , and garnished , she told us a little about herself . It ’ s not just the cuisine and cocktails that are “ locally sourced ” at Roots . Jenna , originally from Ludlow and now a Rutland local , has been with Roots for several months as the bar manager , embracing a change of pace from her kitchen beginnings . She ’ s worked in restaurants for 13 years , learning a great deal from her mother , who is also in the restaurant industry . She shared her passion for Halloween , as well as the Fall season itself , and it ’ s clear that her vibrant personality shines through in her imaginative cocktails . We had the privilege of tasting her favorite season in beverage form .
Ross , a Rutland native , reflects on his own industry journey from his first restaurant in Stowe and now back to Rutland , where he has been , at Roots , for 8 years . Ross transitioned from waiting tables in their first location around the corner to managing the restaurant in its current location , helping to shape Roots into the beloved establishment it is today . While we were watching Jenna whip up the drinks , Ross told us that Roots has always had a cocktail
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