Chopin Players Cup (Image courtesy of Chopin Vodka)

Master mixologists are taking a page from the book of Slow Food enthusiasts and coming up with creations that feature “fresh, seasonal ingredients and premium artisanal goods - in this case, spirits,” according to a newly published article in the Globe and Mail.

The article quotes Tony Abou-Ganim, “…who has worked with such notable chefs as Mario Batali… and created cocktails for…the Bellagio resort and casino in Las Vegas,” as saying, “We're in the midst of the second golden age of cocktails.”

Achieving the right balance of bold flavours, “…such as agave nectar, ginger, elderflower and rhubarb” with powerful spirits will challenge bartenders in 2009. Expect to see plenty of recipes calling for infused vodkas, sweet liqueurs and even strong bitters mixed with fresh-squeezed fruit juices at upscale watering holes in the coming year.

If you’d like to read the Globe and Mail article cited above go to: Cocktails to come: strong, fresh, bold and bacon-infused

If you’d like to see the recipe for the refreshing vodka punch pictured above go to: Chopin Players Cup