Switchel: The Original New England Sports Drink

Glass of switchel served over ice with grated ginger and a mint sprig on a wooden table outdoors

American Vinegar Works Switchel

Switchel, sometimes called Haymaker’s Punch, is the original New England sports drink and was intended for hot days and farm fields. It has been drunk throughout New England but has an especially long history in Vermont and the neighboring New York farmlands. If you have ever purchased vinegar from us you have this recipe. We are concerned, however, that not enough of you have made this and with temperatures going up we are giving switchels another call out here. They are also perfect for our newest ACV. The bourbon is not traditional and is totally optional but we think it is a delicious addition and we like to extend an apple branch to the South.

This recipe features our 19.53 Apple Cider Vinegar.

Switchel

American Vinegar Works

Servings

2 People

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

3 hours

Calories

97

Cuisine

American

Category

Cocktails, Mocktails & Refreshers

Switchel, also known as "Haymaker’s Punch," is the original New England sports drink, traditionally crafted to refresh farmers working in the fields on hot summer days. This revitalizing beverage combines the zing of apple cider vinegar with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and the spicy kick of fresh ginger. While traditionally a non-alcoholic refresher, this version offers an optional "adult" twist with a splash of bourbon.

Switchel

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of water

  • 4 tablespoons cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup

  • 2 teaspoons of finely grated fresh ginger

  • Adult version: add about 2 tablespoons of bourbon (after chilling switchel)

Directions

  1. Mix all the ingredients together other than bourbon and refrigerate at least 3 hours. Stir and taste. 

  2. Adjust sweetness to taste and bourbon to disposition. Strain out ginger if desired.

  3. Serve over ice. Try it with a sprig of mint as well.