Elevated Mixology, Sans Spirits

Food and Beverage Manager Nicholas Gatz knows the secret to a thoughtful beverage menu begins with a story. When he developed the menu for the 80 Proof speakeasy at Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole, he envisioned a book of cocktails crafted with care and created with the guest experience in mind. Gatz also made it a priority to offer options sans spirits with the same elevated profile as traditional cocktails.

“Zero-proof options are becoming just as creative as traditional cocktail offerings,” says Gatz. “No longer is the mocktail menu simply an afterthought. Our 80 Proof alcohol-free menu caters to the sophisticated palate of our guests, mimicking the complexity of our cocktail offerings.”

Elevated options on the 80 Proof menu include the Riki-Tiki, made with housemade orgeat – a syrup made from almonds, sugar and rose water – along with passionfruit, lime, cinnamon simple syrup and an Italian orange non-alcoholic spirit. This playful zero-proof tiki option bursts with coconut and citrus, encapsulating the essence of a classic tiki cocktail.

The Piña Picante highlights grilled pineapple, serrano syrup and lime for a flavourful take on the Margarita, offering a sweet and spicy twist for an exciting mocktail experience. The No-York Sour combines Italian orange non-alcoholic spirits with lemon, simple syrup, egg white, and alcohol-free orange bitters. Timelessly elegant, this zero-proof riff on the New York Sour balances citrusy brightness and a touch of bitterness, culminating in a smooth and sophisticated finish.

Gatz notes that visual components add depth to spirit-free cocktails, such as unique and interesting glassware, creative garnishes, edible glitter and vibrant colours.

“It is important that the zero-proof menu showcases the same craftsmanship as its spirited cousin,” says Gatz.

“Having an accompanying satiating bite also helps complement a spirit-free cocktail, providing a well-rounded experience,” he adds. The new 80 Proof bites menu include such favourites as marinated Greek olives, caviar devilled eggs, charcuterie and housemade huckleberry macarons.

Guests can enjoy plentiful zero-proof options throughout the property, whether for après in Ascent Lounge or alongside dinner in Westbank Grill. The Resort also offers zero-proof cocktail tasting classes as part of the complimentary weekly programming calendar.

Whether shaken or stirred, the 750-square-foot (70 square metre) 80 Proof is an enclave for guests of Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole looking for a memorable evening. Hidden behind a painting, this intimate spot offers seating for up to 30 guests with a mix of counter stool and banquette tables. Design aspects include rich colours, an elegantly tiled bar, leather chairs, damask wallpaper, accents of brass, playful maroon-plaid carpet and a custom toile wall covering. Guests can expect elevated mixology, including plentiful zero-proof options, influenced by the American frontier. A menu of light bites accompanies the extensive drink menu.