Odds are that if you are reading this blog you already know that après ski is the French term meaning "after ski." This tradition that encompasses the social activities after a day on the mountain has become synonymous with the sport of skiing. It's a time to relax, socialize and celebrate a day well spent on the slopes.
Oftentimes, these daily celebrations include conversations about your day that can only be enhanced by a few après ski drinks. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner, there is definitely an après ski drink that's perfect for you. The key is finding the right one for your skiing personality. So raise a glass and enjoy the tradition as we dive into the best après ski drinks for every type of skier.
The Best Après Ski Drinks for Every Type of Skier
1. For the Après Ski Regular
For those who love the après ski scene and are a regular patron at the local ski bar odds are you roll with the keep-it-simple philosophy. Simplicity such as this leaves a few tried and true options that include:
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Hot Chocolate: A classic and always satisfying choice, hot chocolate is perfect for warming up after a long day on the slopes. It also works really well when it comes to warming up the kiddos and keeping them happy. For the adult version, I highly recommend adding a shot of peppermint Schnapps to give it that Girl Scout Cookie Thin Mint feeling.
- Craft Beer: Many ski resorts now have their own collaborations with local breweries. They often have many local craft beers on tap as well. You may have your go-to beer like for example Loose Boots Après IPA that you reach for regularly. If not, I recommend sampling a few different ones to find your favorite.
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Wine: A nice glass of red or white wine is a great way to unwind after a day of skiing. Choose a full-bodied wine like Old Town Cellars Mountain Town Red for colder days or a light and refreshing wine like the EVL White from the Winery of Ellicottville for warmer days.
2. For the Après Ski Socializer
For those who love to socialize and make new friends, your drink is going to be far different from the regulars. As you work the room amidst the jubilant après ski crowd, you'll need a libation that commands a bit more attention.
- Margarita: A classic margarita is always a crowd-pleaser. Made with tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur, its refreshing yet tart flavor is the ultimate compliment to tire legs and nachos. Los Amigos in Vail Village shakes up some killer Margs. But for me, I'm partial to the famous Margarita that Jackson Hole's legendary Mangy Moose has been making for decades.
- Moscow Mule: A Moscow Mule is a refreshing and spicy cocktail that's wildly popular among the après crowd. Made with vodka, ginger beer and lime juice and garnished with a lime wedge it is housed in its signature copper mug that screams, "Come talk to me."
3. For the Après Ski Connoisseur
* Photo Credit: High West Distillery Instagram Page @drinkhighwest
Connoisseurs are subject matter experts. They work the bar with the precision and finesse of an artist creating a masterpiece. For these refined few, it is a must that they sip on a drink as sophisticated as they are. Here are a few classics that fit the bill.
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Negroni: A Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that's made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. There are a lot of good ones out there but the Park City Negroni at Alpine Park City is a showstopper. It's made with the #1 Gin in the world, how could it not be?
- Old Fashioned: An Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that's perfect for sipping on after a day of skiing. The basic version is made with whiskey, sugar, and bitters. However, High West Saloon takes it to another level, using its Double Rye and the base spirit and its Prairie Bourbon as their "flavoring.' It's strong and flavorful and sure to warm you up after a cold day on the mountain.
4. For the Après Ski Health-Conscious Skier
* Photo Credit: @cruxfermentationproject Instagram page
Not everyone is a drinker and that's totally fine. Non-drinkers can have fun too and are certainly entitled to some good options. For those who are more health-conscious, here are a few suggestions:
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Mocktail: Most bars offer a wide variety of delicious mocktails that are perfect for après ski. So if your friends order a round of Margaritas you can too. Just ask them to hold the alcohol.
- Non-Alcoholic Beers: The non-alcoholic beer market has exploded in the last few years. Now most breweries are brewing their own versions of these like the No Mo from Bend's Crux Fermentation Project. There are even a few stand-alone breweries, like Athletic Brewing who focus solely on the non-alcoholic beer market.
There Are Après Ski Drinks for Everyone
Regardless of what type of skier or snowboarder you are, the après ski scene is full of delicious drinks to rehydrate and refuel. Whether you're a regular, someone who is a bit more social, a connoisseur or even someone who is a bit more health conscious, there is a perfect après ski drink for you. From ice-cold craft beers to classic cocktails and everything in between, there’s something to please everyone’s palate and help unwind after a day on the slopes.
When it comes to your next ski trip, be sure to factor in some time for après ski drinks. With so many great options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect drink to fit your distinct personality. So let's all raise a glass and enjoy the tradition that is après ski!
The Best Après Ski Attire For All Cocktails
Whether it's a beer, Margarita, Old Fashioned or Mocktail, it's important to have your après ski attire dialed in. Whatever, category you fit into, we're all on the same team when it comes to our post-ski day activities. Nothing says this better than our Après Ski Team Hoodie and t-shirt. It's the team that everyone wants to and should be a part of. Get yours and join today!
If you have a passion for après ski and enjoy a good cocktail, be sure to subscribe to our craft beer blog. With regular updates, you are sure to find something new and exciting to help you unwind at the end of your ski day.
