Chicago-based liqueur brand Apologue is expanding its artisanal line-up with a new seasonal expression: Apologue Carrot. Drawing inspiration from the flavors of fall, the liqueur is crafted from locally grown Nichols Farm carrots, warm baking spices, and citrus peel, adding an earthy yet bright dimension to the brand’s repertoire. It joins other Apologue favorites, including Aronia Berry, Celery Root, Persimmon, Saffron, and Paw Paw liqueurs.
From Field to Bottle
The production process of Apologue Carrot begins with drying, chopping, and juicing the fresh carrots, ensuring each bottle captures the essence of the root in both aroma and flavor. Co-founder Robby Haynes explained the appeal of using carrots:
“Carrots are incredibly familiar, yet when presented in an unexpected context, like ice cream, cocktails, or now a liqueur, they can feel playful, bold, even adventurous. Their versatility excites me; earthy but bright, refreshing yet savoury, equally at home in Highballs, Spritzes and sippers.”
Bottled at 25% ABV, Apologue Carrot is currently available for presale at $35 until September 15. Following that, it will retail for $40 and be distributed to Illinois bars and restaurants via Lagniappe Beverage, to Washington D.C. through Lanterna Distributors, and to Michigan via RNDC.
A Carefully Curated Flavor Profile
Haynes spent years developing the Carrot liqueur, collaborating with bartenders, exploring flavor combinations, and gauging interest for an autumn-inspired release. The final recipe balances ginger, cinnamon, lemon, mint, cinchona, and citrus, creating a versatile liqueur that pairs effortlessly with whiskey, rum, tequila, mezcal, and shochu.
“Our goal was to create a liqueur that bartenders could use creatively,” Haynes said. “Carrot can be the base for a refreshing spritz, a layered Highball, or a warm, spiced sipper. It’s designed to inspire versatility behind the bar.”
Apologue’s Roots and Expansion
Founded in 2017 by Robby Haynes and Jordan Tepper, Apologue has built a reputation for handcrafted, flavor-forward liqueurs that highlight the interplay between locally sourced ingredients and artisanal techniques. In 2021, the duo expanded their vision by launching Hoste Cocktails, a platform for high-quality, craft-ready beverages.
Apologue Carrot reflects the brand’s commitment to seasonal innovation, quality ingredients, and mixology-friendly products, offering bartenders and home enthusiasts a creative tool for autumn cocktails. Its introduction reinforces Apologue’s position as a trend-setting small-batch liqueur producer, carving out a niche in the artisanal spirits market.
Availability
Apologue Carrot is available for presale at $35 until September 15, then will retail for $40. Bars, restaurants, and specialty retailers in Illinois, Washington D.C., and Michigan will stock the liqueur, with potential for broader distribution in the future.
For more information, head over to the brand’s official website.
