Ausverkauft - Ferment the Unexpected: Shrub-Making with ALBA at FOOD ZURICH

At ALBA, fermentation is more than just a technique—it’s a way of thinking. From our naturally leavened dough to the drinks behind our bar, we are obsessed with the invisible processes that transform ingredients over time. In this workshop, we’re shifting our focus to the glass, inviting you into the vibrant, acidic, and endlessly creative world of shrubs. Led by Gry Lode, Bar Manager at ALBA, this hands-on session will introduce you to the basics of shrub-making, an age-old method of preserving fruits through gentle fermentation and vinegars, making a bold return in modern mixology. You’ll learn how we craft our seasonal shrubs in-house and how these fermented infusions bring complexity and depth to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Shrubs are living, evolving, and incredibly versatile—and just like sourdough, they require care, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment. Whether you’re a home bartender, a fermentation enthusiast, or simply shrub-curious, this workshop will give you the tools to start creating your own.

What You’ll Learn: • Fermentation First – Understand ALBA’s philosophy of flavor through time and transformation.
• The Building Blocks of Shrubs – Learn how to balance fruit, sugar, and acid to create fermented drinks with depth.
• Seasonality & Preservation – Discover how shrubs can extend the life of fresh produce and celebrate what’s in season.
• Hands-On Shrub Crafting – Make your own shrub with guidance from Gry using local, organic ingredients.
• Mixing & Pairing Tips – Explore how shrubs can elevate cocktails, mocktails, and food pairings alike.
• Take-Home Flavor – Leave with your own start of a shrub, a bottle of shrub from ALBA, and the know-how to keep experimenting at home.

This is fermentation in a glass—bold, bright, and endlessly expressive. Join us and learn how to drink differently.