It’s officially summertime in North Carolina. The days are long and the temperature is rising, and we can’t think of a better way to cool off than with a refreshing cocktail.

The Auctioneer Bar’s newest signature cocktail, Don’t Want No Shrubs, features sweet pineapple and smoky mezcal flavors. Think grilled pineapple in a glass. Warning: you may be transported to a Jamaican beach after just one sip.

Don’t Want No Shrubs was created by Auctioneer bartenders Annie and Caroline after they tasted the Liber & Co orgeat syrup. The subtle nuttiness of the syrup marries perfectly with the sweet pineapple and smoky mezcal to round out this refreshing drink.

The Ingredients

Rum – we keep it local and use Kill Devil Rum, which is made at Outer Banks Distilling in Manteo, North Carolina. Did you know that they were the first distillery in the Outer Banks?
Auctioneer Bar signature cocktail
Liber & Co Orgeat – a premium almond-based cocktail syrup made from real almonds, pure cane sugar and bitter almond oil.

Lime Juice – a staple in every summer cocktail

Housemade Pineapple Shrub – made with fresh pineapple, organic sugar, and apple cider vinegar. The shrub adds a zingy and slightly sweet note to the cocktail.

We then shake until frosty and strain into a pineapple glass over crushed ice. And lastly, we add a float of Montelobos Mezcal and a slapped basil leaf for garnish.

Perfect Pairing

We recommend pairing the Don’t Want No Shrubs cocktail with a fried chicken sandwich from Old North Meats & Provisions, or a shrimp roll from Locals Seafood Restaurant & Market.

Don’t Want No Shrubs is here for the summer so give the Auctioneer Bar a visit the next time you’re in Downtown Durham. And don’t forget to share your cocktail pics with us on Instagram. Cheers!