MELBOURNE CONVENTION EXHIBITION CENTRE LAUNCHES THE CURIOUS CABINET MOCKTAIL BAR
We’ve partnered with the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on a Mocktail Bar
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has expanded its alcohol-free menu, featuring our award-winning Shrub Syrups. This exciting collaboration includes the debut of a bespoke The Curious Cabinet Mocktail Bar, dedicated to offering an innovative, inclusive beverage experience for all visitors.
The menu highlights our award winning Shrub Syrups, crafted from natural, simple ingredients and bursting with complex flavours that cater to diverse palates. From refreshing citrus blends to bold botanical infusions, these mixers deliver a refined drinking experience without the alcohol.
“Every year, MCEC welcomes millions of visitors from around the world. Providing a welcoming and inclusive experience is at the heart of what we do,” said Vai Sadavarte, Catering Operations Manager at MCEC.
“Partnering with The Curious Cabinet allows us to offer sophisticated, alcohol-free options and showcase high-quality local flavours that perfectly complement our unique culinary offerings.” The Curious Cabinet Mocktail Bar will feature a curated range of mocktails, each inspired by the rich and versatile flavours of Shrub Syrups. The bar aims to redefine non-alcoholic beverages by showcasing the same level of care and creativity often reserved for traditional cocktails.
Pia Cook, Founder of The Curious Cabinet, expressed her excitement about the partnership:
“At The Curious Cabinet, we believe that alcohol-free options should never feel like an afterthought. This collaboration with MCEC allows us to share the joy of sophisticated, handcrafted beverages with a broader audience. We’re thrilled to be part of this movement towards greater inclusivity in hospitality.”
This initiative aligns with MCEC’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and supporting local businesses. The Curious Cabinet’s syrups are proudly made in Geelong, further strengthening MCEC’s focus on showcasing the best of local talent and produce.
The Curious Cabinet Mocktail Bar is now available to book at MCEC events, and the alcohol-free menu is available across a range of functions and conferences hosted at the venue. See here for details.
What are Shrub Syrups? A deep dive into their history and their uses
Ever wanted to know what a shrub syrup is, or where shrub syrups came from? Here we delve into the intriguing history of the Shrub Syrup, and its delicious evolution throughout history.
Introduction
Whilst simple in their make-up, Shrub Syrups offer a perfectly balanced sweet and tart flavour that add complexity to beverages and culinary creations. But what exactly are Shrub Syrups, and how have they functioned throughout history?
The Shrub syrup that we know today is an alcohol-free drink, however throughout history Shrub Syrups were commonly made with brandy, making it an alcoholic tipple, and perfect for early cocktail making. Let’s explore their origins, their evolution over time, and how they’re used today.
What is a Shrub Syrup?
A shrub syrup is syrup made of fruit, sugar, and apple-cider vinegar. The vinegar acts as a natural preservative, adding a tart flavour which balances the sweetness of the fruit with a sharp, refreshing acidity. Shrubs can be mixed simply with soda water, added into cocktails, or even used in cooking to add depth to dishes.
Recipe from Jerry Thomas’ The Bartenders Guide (1876)
The historical function of Shrub Syrups
The word “shrub” itself comes from the Arabic “sharab,” meaning “to drink”. The use of Shrub Syrups can be traced back to ancient times, when vinegar was commonly used to preserve fruit and even sanitise water.
Recipe from Martha Stockbridge What to Drink (1920)
In the 17th and 18th centuries, shrubs became a popular way to preserve fruit at sea and were even added to rum or brandy as a way of concealing the harsh taste of the alcohol. On land, shrubs were a staple in households before refrigeration, allowing people to enjoy the taste of seasonal fruits long after their harvest.
Recipes of Shrub Syrups have been found as early as 1876. Jerry Thomas’ The Bartender’s Guide: How to Mix All Kinds of Plain and Fancy Drinks records a Raspberry Shrub recipe which he recounts was ‘an excellent drink in warm weather and in fevers’ (Thomas 1876).
During the Prohibition era in the 1920s, shrubs gained popularity as a non-alcoholic alternative to cocktails. In 1920 Bertha Stockbridge published a recipe for Raspberry Shrub in her book alcohol-free drink recipes book What to Drink, which highlighted the importance of Shrub Syrups as a central element of excellent hosting:
“A generation or two ago every housewife who prided herself upon her ability as a hostess was very sure to have in her cellar shrubs and fruit vinegars of many kinds. For in this way she could always offer a guest a delightful and refreshing drink with the least amount of work and expenditure of time.
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The decline and the revival of Shrubs
With the advent of modern refrigeration and commercial preservatives, shrubs fell out of widespread use. However, their unique flavour profile never entirely disappeared. In recent years, the growing interest in craft cocktails, artisanal beverages, and health-conscious drink alternatives has led to a resurgence of Shrub Syrups.
Shrub Syrups are even listed on The Ark of Taste, an initiative focused on the slow food movement and dedicated to traveling the world and ‘collecting small-scale quality productions that belong to the cultures, history and traditions of the entire planet: an extraordinary heritage of fruits, vegetables, animal breeds, cheeses, breads, sweets and cured meats’.
Today, the return of the Shrub Syrup is celebrated for their ability to add depth and balance to drinks, whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic.
How to use Shrub Syrups today
Modern shrub syrups can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
Mixed with sparkling water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic drink.
Added into cocktails to add acidity and complexity.
Drizzled over salads or desserts for a tangy twist.
Used in marinades and sauces to enhance savory dishes.
With their rich history and unique taste, Shrub Syrups are more than just a trendy revival—they are a testament to centuries of culinary ingenuity. Whether you’re sipping a Shrub-infused drink or using one in your kitchen, you’re partaking in a tradition that has stood the test of time.
5 EASY ALCOHOL-FREE RECIPES
We’ve taken the hard work out of FebFast with these 5 simple alcohol free recipes!
rhubarb & apple spritz
The Curious Cabinet is now available on MadeMart.
We’re thrilled to announce that The Curious Cabinet is now available on MadeMart, an online marketplace connecting conscious consumers with independent, handmade, and small- batch businesses. This partnership makes it easier than ever for you to enjoy our handcrafted Shrub Syrups, Preserves, and Dusts, whilst shopping a range of other amazing products.
Why MadeMart?
Founded by Samantha Finnegan, a natural extension of her gift boxing company MadeBox, MadeMart aims to bring Australia’s finest small-batch product directly to consumers. In a world dominated by mass production, MadeMart stands as a beacon for those who seek quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship. It’s a platform designed to champion independent makers, bringing together the best locally made goods. By shopping on MadeMart, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re supporting small businesses.
A Perfect Match
At The Curious Cabinet, we believe in reviving the lost art of Shrubs, and in the process creating sustainable products by turning all of the fruit strained off our syrups into preserves and cocktail dusts. Every product is crafted with care, using thoughtfully sourced ingredients and sustainable packaging. Partnering with MadeMart allows us to reach like-minded consumers who appreciate the story, passion, and purpose behind what they buy.
The Power of Shopping Small
When you choose to buy from small, independent businesses, you’re making a powerful statement. You’re supporting local artisans, reducing environmental impact, and promoting a diverse, creative marketplace.
Discover & Sip
A selection of our Shrub Syrups , Preserves, and Dusts are now available on MadeMart, Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, a health-conscious sipper, or simply someone who loves trying new things, our shrubs bring something truly unique to your glass.
Visit us on MadeMart today and be part of a growing community that values taste, shopping local, and supporting small producers.
Summer Concert Series - Make our recipes at home!
Enjoy the festival spirit long after the music fades with our a Day on the Green alcohol-free cocktail series! Designed for those who love bold flavours without the booze, these refreshing recipes are straight from our festival bar and easy to recreate at home.
Whether you're reminiscing about sun-soaked afternoons on the grass or simply looking for a delicious new drink, these vibrant, handcrafted mocktails bring the magic of live music and good company to every sip. Grab your ingredients, mix up something special, and keep the festival feeling alive—no ticket required!
See the recipes linked below, and here’s where you can find them.
Dark and Stormy
A standout favourite in the library of cocktails. This alcohol free version combines the traditional flavours of ginger beer, Rum (alcohol free) and with the unusual addition of our Festive Spiced Tea blend. The tannins in the tea provide a similar kick to alcohol, and the spices give you that hint of a spiced rum. YUM>
INGREDIENTS
30ml alcohol free dark rum
45ml pre-brewed and chilled The Curious Cabinet Festive Spiced Cocktail Tea
Ginger Beer
Citrus wheel to garnish
METHOD
Add rum and chilled tea to a tall glass with lots of ice. Top with ginger beer. Stir. Garnish with a citrus wheel. Enjoy.
shop the recipe
Rhubarb and Apple Spritz
A delicious strawberry twist on a sour, this is a festive cocktail that is sure to please. It can also be made as a mocktail with instructions included in the recipe.
Rhubarb and apple. A match made in heaven. Try this and you’ll keep coming back for more.
INGREDIENTS
30ml The Curious Cabinet Rhubarb Shrub Syrup
Soda water
Sliced apple for garnish
METHOD
Fill a spritz glass with ice. Top with Shrub Syrup and soda. Stir. Garnish with sliced apple.
Add a splash of gin for a harder version.
shop the recipe
Dark Cherry Spritz
Dark, rich and delicious - this spritz is one to remember.
INGREDIENTS
30ml The Curious Cabinet Cherry Shrub Syrup
Soda Water
Sprig of Rosemary
METHOD
Add Cherry Shrub Syrup to tall glass with lots of ice. Top with soda. Stir. Garnish with rosemary. Enjoy.
shop the recipe
Strawberry and Cucumber Cup
Summer in a glass! Our Strawberry and Cucumber Cup is super easy to create and will wow your friends and family. Add a splash of gin or tequila for a stronger version.
INGREDIENTS
30ml The Curious Cabinet Strawberry Shrub Syrup
150ml Soda Water
Freshly sliced cucumber and strawberries to garnish
METHOD
Add Strawberry Shrub Syrup to tall glass with lots of ice. Top with soda. Stir. Garnish with cucumber and strawberries. Enjoy.
shop the recipe
NEW ‘THE DRIVERS’ BAR’ LAUNCHES AT a day on the green CONCERTS AT MT DUNEED ESTATE, GEELONG
Geelong, VIC — A game-changer in concert culture is making its debut at this summer’s highly anticipated a day on the green outdoor concert series at Mt Duneed Estate. The Drivers’ Bar, proudly brought to you by Geelong based business, The Curious Cabinet, is set to provide a sophisticated alcohol-free solution for designated drivers and mindful drinkers alike.
Featuring a curated range of boutique alcohol-free beverages, The Drivers’ Bar redefines what it means to enjoy responsibly. Patrons can sip on award-winning sparkling Shrub spritzes, handcrafted mocktails, and other premium zero-alcohol drinks while relishing live performances from some of the biggest names in music—all without compromising their ability to drive home safely.
“We’re very proud to partner with The Curious Cabinet,” Roundhouse Entertainment Director Michael Newton said. “At a day on the green, we are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all concertgoers, and The Drivers’ Bar aligns perfectly with that mission by offering exciting alcohol-free alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or experience. The Drivers’ Bar is going to be a great part of all our events at Mt Duneed this season.”
This initiative is made possible by The Curious Cabinet, Australia’s leading producer of award-winning Shrub Syrups. Known for their bold flavours and versatility, these old-world mixers are crafted with natural ingredients and designed to elevate non-alcoholic beverages to gourmet status. Some highlights on the menu will be frozen alcohol-free Margaritas, Sparkling Strawberry & Cucumber Cups, Sparkling Mandarin and Bitters and Dark Cherry and Rosemary Spritz.
Founder Pia Cook of The Curious Cabinet shared her excitement: “We’re thrilled to bring our products to such a prestigious event. It’s a joy to see more people embracing alcohol-free options, and The Drivers’ Bar is the perfect platform to celebrate how varied and delicious alcohol-free options can be. We love to remind people that alcohol-free drinks don’t have to be boring or always imitate alcohol. They can stand alone as their own delicious and sophisticated drinks.”
The introduction of The Drivers’ Bar will provide another tool to encourage patrons to be more mindful of their alcohol intake while still enjoying the festivities. With a vibrant and creative range of mocktail recipes, the bar promises to become a popular feature of the a day on the green experience.
Catch The Drivers’ Bar at all a day on the green concerts at Mt Duneed Estate this season and discover how staying alcohol-free can still be indulgent, responsible, and fun.
For more information about a day on the green and all upcoming shows at Mt Duneed Estate, visit adayonthegreen.com.au
a day on the green is Australia’s original and premier outdoor winery concert event. After more than 530 shows, entertaining over four million happy patrons, the a day on the green experience of good food, fine wine and great music in magnificent locations remains unrivalled. Run by specialist tour promoter and live entertainment company Roundhouse Entertainment, a day on the green launched in 2001. It has since gone on to host international superstars including Robbie Williams, Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Rod Stewart, Leonard Cohen, Alicia Keys, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Florence & the Machine, The Chemical Brothers and pioneer homegrown line-ups with Kylie Minogue, Tina Arena, Crowded House, John Farnham, Jimmy Barnes, Cold Chisel, Missy Higgins, Paul Kelly, Hunters & Collectors, and hundreds more while promoting Australia’s up-and-coming talent. Roundhouse Entertainment is proudly part of the Mushroom Group.
THE CURIOUS CABINET
It all started when Pia was pregnant. It was the festive season, and she was sick of drinking soda water, or lemon, lime, and bitters, and missing out on festive cocktails!
She discovered the intriguing world of Shrub syrups through an article in a magazine, and decided to try making them herself. She was hooked. The traditional, colonial recipe combines the sweetness of fruit and sugar, and the tartness of apple cider vinegar. She found it irresistible.
A love affair began, and in 2019 The Curious Cabinet entered the world. Now, with 16 different products in our range, we’re thrilled to be stocked by over 250 boutique stores and venues nationally.
Sweet. Tart. Delicious. Shrubs are made using fruit, apple cider vinegar, and cane sugar. They are used to mix drinks, both with and without alcohol, and can also be used as an ingredient in cooking.
The word "shrub" is believed to have evolved from the Arabic word sharbah, which means "a drink". Shrubs originally became popular in colonial America and England during the 17th and 18th centuries.