Painting with turmeric

We believe that cocktails are more than just beverages, they could be an extension of your brand’s identity. Our approach to mixology is deeply rooted in creativity, sustainability, and an appreciation for natural ingredients. Using nature’s palette, we craft drinks that not only taste exceptional but also tell a story through vibrant, organic colors. By harnessing ingredients like spirulina, turmeric, and butterfly pea flower, we ensure that every cocktail reflects our commitment to quality, aesthetics, and innovation.

Spirulina: Deep Blues & Greens

Spirulina, a nutrient-rich algae, is a powerhouse of color. It lends cocktails stunning shades of deep green and rich blue, especially when combined with citrus to brighten the tones. At STIR, we’ve used spirulina to create bold, ocean-like hues that add an unexpected twist to classic drinks. A light touch is key—too much can overpower the flavor profile.

Turmeric: Golden Radiance

For a warm, golden glow, turmeric is a natural choice. Known for its earthy, slightly peppery taste, turmeric adds a touch of spice while imparting a beautiful yellow-orange hue. It works particularly well in tropical drinks or as a subtle enhancement to honey-based cocktails. To maximize solubility and even distribution, we often infuse it into syrups rather than adding it directly.

Butterfly Pea Flower: Magical Blues & Purples

A bartender’s favorite for color transformation, butterfly pea flower tea turns deep blue in neutral or alkaline environments but shifts to purple or pink when acid (such as citrus) is added. This pH-dependent reaction allows for visually striking layered cocktails and interactive drinks that change color as they’re stirred.

Beetroot: Rich Reds & Pinks

Beetroot is a fantastic natural dye for achieving deep reds and vibrant pinks. Its earthy sweetness pairs well with berry and citrus-based cocktails. We often use beetroot in syrups or infused spirits to ensure a smooth integration into drinks without overpowering other ingredients.

Hibiscus: Floral Crimson

Hibiscus flowers steep into a naturally tart, deep red infusion that can lend cocktails a ruby hue with a slightly floral and citrusy flavor. Its acidity makes it a great pairing for tropical and refreshing drinks, adding both color and complexity.

Activated Charcoal: Bold Black Elegance

Though technically a processed ingredient, activated charcoal is derived from natural sources like coconut shells and is a dramatic way to achieve a sleek black cocktail. It’s tasteless in small amounts, making it an ideal choice for visually striking drinks without altering the flavor profile too much.

Chlorophyll: Bright, Vivid Green

Extracted from plants, chlorophyll provides an intense green color without the strong flavors of spirulina. It’s a fantastic option for fresh, botanical cocktails and pairs beautifully with herbal ingredients like basil and mint.

Crafting Naturally Colored Cocktails

Using natural colorants in cocktails requires some experimentation, as they can introduce unexpected flavors and react differently based on acidity, dilution, and alcohol content. At STIR, we embrace this challenge, balancing aesthetics with taste to create drinks that are as delightful to sip as they are to look at. Whether it’s a deep blue spirulina sour or a golden turmeric-infused highball, natural coloring enhances not just the appearance but also the story behind each cocktail.

Next time you raise a glass, consider what’s behind its color. With nature’s palette at our disposal, the possibilities are endless.