Celebrating local farmers like Mud Lake Farm, who have a true love of the land is so easy to do here in Saugatuck. And the delicious output from them is enjoyed here at Wickwood Inn and in so many restaurants, especially during the summer season when the bounty is plenty. But the drinks Steve and Kris Haitsma at Mud Lake Farm have been creating are especially delicious. And they are something we enjoy sharing with our guests at the Inn.
Local Farmers – Mud Lake Farm – Inspire Cocktails & Mocktails For All Ages
Locally Grown Ginger
At the Inn, the fresh ginger tea we serve daily is made from Mud Lake Farm grown yellow ginger. Its warmth in winter is so soothing, while a crisp & cold version in summer refreshes after a hot day at Oval Beach.
Locally Made Cordials
It’s also a nice surprise when we add a dash of their St. Steve’s Elderberry Cordial into the drinks during our evening Sips and Small Plates hour. It’s always a lively topic of conversation as people gather and suddenly experience this wondrous flavor seeping into their tea or wine. (The cordials themselves are non-alcoholic.)
The music that can deepest reach, and cure all ill, is cordial speech.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Often a wonderful discussion ensues among guests about taste and values and the importance of having local farmers – a far too rare breed in many parts of the country these days. Before long, guests who entered as strangers are chatting like old friends – all because of the surprise taste of fresh ginger in their tea or elderberry appearing in their glass. It’s truly magical what food & flavors can do to bring people together.
Locally Made Sodas
And it’s very exciting that Steve and Kris have recently launched their own brand of drinks. The Mud Lake Farm line is named St. Steve’s Cordials & Sodas and although Kris has yet to weigh in on the validity of his sainthood application, the products are heavenly.
The hand-crafted, small batches use ingredients grown on the farm and are refreshing for all tastes whether straight up or added to other drinks. Guests lucky enough to taste them usually make it a point to search them out at a local grocer to bring some back home – a perfect souvenir, reflecting the unique nature of our down-to-earth community.
The fact all this attention to taste and craft and local economies is happening right here in Western Michigan is delightful. We’re so proud to be part of this community and share it with our guests.
Not only do we support Steve and Kris, but their delicious products allow our guests to see and taste the best of our local offerings. That certainly qualifies as a win-win. Cheers everyone.