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.
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.
The Mother of Invention
From pregnancy cravings to delicious solutions, how motherhood inspired by journey with Shrub Syrups.
From pregnancy cravings to delicious drinks. how motherhood inspired my journey with shrub syrups.
The journey of pregnancy not only brought a beautiful new child into my life, it was also the genesis of a new business. Like many expectant and new moms, I often felt deprived having to say no to the odd glass of wine, or festive cocktail, especially when the only options were soft drinks and super sugary mocktails. Instead of resigning myself to feeling left out, I embarked on a journey of discovery that would ultimately lead to the birth of The Curious Cabinet.
In a moment of serendipity, I stumbled upon an old world drink, called shrubs, in a magazine article. Intrigued by the combination of fruit, sugar, and apple cider vinegar, I decided to experiment with creating my own versions of these tantalizing concoctions.
With each batch of shrubs I crafted, I discovered a world of flavour that captivated my taste buds. The sweet, tart, and refreshingly unique taste of shrubs provided the perfect solution for my pregnancy cravings, offering a delightful alternative to traditional cocktails without compromising on taste or enjoyment.
As I honed my recipes and experimented with different flavour combinations, I realised that I had stumbled upon something truly special. Inspired by the joy and satisfaction that shrubs brought to me, and the feedback from friends, I started to realise I wanted to share these with the world. The humble beginnings of The Curious Cabinet was formed. First selling at farmers markets, we are now stocked in over 200 boutique stores and venues across Australian.
For me, the discovery of these old traditional recipes represents more than just a business venture – it's a celebration of motherhood, creativity, and innovation. I'm constantly reminded of this by the number of pregnant women who purchase our products, and then continue enjoying them into motherhood. It's a buzz to know that I've created a tasty solution for women to embrace their pregnancy journey with joy and enthusiasm, one sip at a time.
If you are looking for a unique gift for someone in your life that is pregnant, or wanting to spoil a mum, this the perfect way to shower them in something special. Shop now
RECAP: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival Event at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
Nestled within the lush foliage of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, a delightful collision of Gin and Shrub Syrups unfolded at the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. "ORI-GIN STORY: The Garden in Your Glass" offered attendees an exclusive opportunity to experience the collaborative creations of Geelong-based artisans, Anther Spirits and The Curious Cabinet, in partnership with the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.
Alcohol-free Pink Grapefruit Spritz. Made with Grapefruit, Rosemary & Lemon Myrtle Shrub Syrup.
The event, which took place against the backdrop of the Gardens' verdant beauty, showcased a unique fusion of flavors featuring Anther's Fluroscence Gin and The Curious Cabinet's Pink Grapefruit Shrub Syrup with Rosemary & Lemon Myrtle, as well as Boysenberry Shrub Syrup with Bay Leaf. Featuring Anther's Fluroescence Gin, they served up two delicious cocktails Florescence Boysenberry Spritz and The Shrubbery which also featured The Curious Cabinet's Shrub Syrups. Focused on creating delicious alcohol-free drinks, The Curious Cabinet served up two mocktails, Blushing Garden Spritz and Boysenberry & Bay Tea-Ni. Each drink was carefully crafted to highlight the beautiful wonders within the gardens including garnishes of River Mint, Cucamelon, Rosemary, Lemon Verbena and Bay Laruel.
Anther Distillery’s Cocktail “The Shrubbery” featuring Floresence Gin, Grapefruit with Rosemary and Lemon Myrtle Shrub Syrup and Elderflower Liquor.
Guided by Royal Botanic Garden Melbourne's resident horticulturist, Jenny Bell, attendees were treated to an immersive journey into the stories behind the botanicals and plants that inspired these innovative products. As participants got to stroll through the gardens and sip on their beverages, they were able to touch, smell and see the Botanics that have been distilled in Anther's and The Curious Cabinet's products. Participants also had the opportunity to indulge in a sensory journey, tasting intriguing delights such as cucamelon, finger limes, and Buddha's hand.
The Royal Botanic Gardens Horticulturist Jenny Bell, showing off some of the Gardens’ beautiful herbs from the Children’s Garden.
"ORI-GIN STORY: The Garden in Your Glass" encapsulated the spirit of collaboration, creativity, and appreciation for nature's bounty. By bringing together the expertise of Anther Spirits, The Curious Cabinet, and the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, the event offered a truly unforgettable experience for all who attended.
Left - Right: The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Horticulturalist Jenny Bell, The Curious Cabinet Founder Pia Cook, Anther Distillery Founder Dr Dervilla McGowan.
Special thanks to Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne for supplying these photographs of the event.
Autumn Recipe Inspiration
There's a certain magic that comes with the arrival of autumn. It's a season that invites us to slow down, savor the moment, and indulge in the comforting flavors that nature has to offer. What better way to embrace this enchanting time of year than by stepping into the kitchen and whipping up some delicious autumn-inspired treats? Here are some intriguing recipes guaranteed to delight your senses and warm your soul.
Cocktail: A Stroll In The Gardens
INGREDIENTS
60ml Gin
Dash of bitters
Bay leaf to garnish
METHOD
Shake gin, Shrub Syrup, dash of bitters in a shaker with ice. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a bay leaf.
MOCKTAIL: DARK SPICED TEA SPRITZ
INGREDIENTS
120ml pre-brewed and chilled The Curious Cabinet Festive Spiced Cocktail Tea
Ginger beer or lemonade
Garnish: citrus wheels, mint or rosemary
METHOD
Fill a spritz glass with ice. Add 120ml chilled tea. Top with Ginger Beer or lemonade. (Add some gin, dark rum or vodka for a unique cocktail). Garnish with citrus wheels, mint or rosemary.
CHOCOLATE & MANDARIN MUFFINS
A delicious riff on the classing choc/orange combination, these chocolate and mandarin muffins are a curiously delicious treat. The perfect treat for Autumn! Sprinkled generously with The Curious Cabinet Mandarin Dust for extra magic.
See full recipe here.
platter + rhubarb & ginger conserve
Made from the fruit strained off our Rhubarb Shrub Syrup, our Rhubarb and Ginger Conserve is a delicious addition to any platter. Allow this preserve to elevate all of your favourite cheeses and meats. We recommend serving with a Rhubarb, Apple & Ginger Spritz.
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Event: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2024
Join us at Melbourne Food and Wine Festival for an evening of distilling, botanics and delicious cocktails and mocktails.
Ori-gin story:the garden in your glass
Take a journey through distilling and botanicals at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne with Anther Distillery and The Curious Cabinet at Melbourne Food and Wine Festival
WHEN: Wednesday 20 & Thursday 21 March 6-8pm
WHERE: Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Birdwood Avenue
Are you a fan of botanicals and the art of crafting intriguing beverages? If so, we have the perfect event for you! As part of Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is hosting a unique and immersive experience where you can indulge in the finest drinks featuring the botanical creations of Anther Distillery and The Curious Cabinet. Whilst strolling through the gardens, you will embark on a journey, understanding how nature inspired these creators to discover the botanical world of flavour, and unlock the garden in your glass…
ABOUT THE COLLABORATIONS
Geelong based small businesses, Anther Distillery and The Curious Cabinet, have a shared passion for curiosity, creativity, and flavour innovation. Both have had the pleasure of collaborating with Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, to create products that showcase their flare for creating intriguing flavours with beautiful botanics foraged from the Gardens. These collaborations also help raise money to support the continued conservation and research efforts at the Gardens.
The range of products include:
what to expect
As you wander through the enchanting Gardens, immerse yourself in the captivating stories of how these products, and their visionary creators, were inspired by the flavours at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. Prepare to tantalise your taste buds by indulging in two cocktails/mocktails, expertly crafted by these creators, featuring their botanic inspired products.
Alongside Anther Distillery’s Dr Derv McGowan and The Curious Cabinet’s founder Pia Cook, Gardens plant specialist and Kitchen Garden Curator Jenni Bell, from RBGV will be there to guide you through the unique botanics that have inspired these exceptional collaborations. Learn about the origins of each ingredient, and how they found their way into the Gardens.
the flavours of anther distillery
One of the highlights of this event is the opportunity to taste the exquisite creations from Anther Distillery. Led by Dr Derv McGowan, and cocktail extraordinaire Sebastian Reaburn, Anther Distillery is known for championing Australian ingredients in their tasty gins distilled by methods that harness both creativity and science. During the event, you'll have the chance to taste Anther's Florescence Gin in unique cocktails that showcases the diversity of flavours found in the Royal Botanic Gardens. From native Australian plants such as Tasmannia xerophila (Apline Pepper), Kunzea parvifolia, and (Violet Kunzea), each ingredient’s story adds depth to the gin and is a testimony to the artistic science of flavour that Anther capture in every bottle.
exploring the curious cabinet’s creations
In addition, you will be inspired by founder of The Curious Cabinet, Pia Cook, artful mastermind behind alcohol-free drinks created with the intention of making one feel like they have discovered something truly remarkable. Bringing a modern take on a popular past time, Pia’s Shrub Syrups are inspired by an old world recipe that combine sugar, fruit, and apple-cider vinegar for a tantalising flavour that is tart and sweet. Pia’s curious creations capture the essence of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, which you’ll be given the chance to experience in an intriguing range of mocktails. From vibrant notes of Lemon Myrtle, to earthy undertones such as Bay Laurel, each sip will transport you to a delicious intersection of flavour and botanical wonder, allowing you to unlock your curiosity and be inspired by a truly innovative way to experience alcohol-free.
