Après-Ski: Hosting Happy Hour

Happy hour has been a tradition for generations. Although we each cherish these get-togethers in our own way, it’s really just a time to unwind. The possibilities are endless, but the main idea is to create a cozy atmosphere where there’s something for everyone.

They’re easy to prepare. Just get everything together ahead of time and then put it all out when you’re having drinks with ruddy cheeks from the cold or sun. Choose your favourite products, and dare to add new ones that will pique everyone’s curiosity. Delicious flavour combinations are a wonderful way to make culinary discoveries.

Local Products

Here, we’re taking the chance to showcase products from Quebec. We’ve chosen unique items, such as fine cheeses and sausages, pickled veggies, rillettes, jellies, a baguette accompanied by a microbrew, local cocktails or a lovely bottle of local wine. This kind of happy hour is more comforting than trendy. But there’s style in high-quality products.

With the limitless possibilities, why not choose a region and build your happy hour around some gems from that part of Quebec? Every region offers a host of gourmet products to explore. They’re increasingly available everywhere. You can order local products online or directly from artisans or websites, such as Signé Local, which has a shopping platform and four stores located in Montreal, Brossard, Saint-Bruno and Quebec City that make it easier to find quality local food.

A Harmonious Blend of Flavours

For happy hour, combine tastes that go well together. The goal is to assemble some beloved items and gourmet finds with a variety of textures and flavours—crunchy, creamy, salty, sweet—while keeping it simple. Just put the ingredients together according to your preferences and whims.

Cold sparkling wine, a fridge filled with microbrews, and chambered wine—that’s what it’s all about. Happiness can be simpler than you think. Enjoy!

During chilly weather or to sip by the fire, here’s the famous hot gin recipe from our partners the Chèvres de Montagne.

Ingredients

• 3 oz cranberry juice
• 1 small thyme sprig
• 1 oz Oshlag hibiscus gin
• A dried orange or grapefruit slice

Instructions

Heat the cranberry juice, gin and thyme. Simmer for 2 minutes.

The dried orange or grapefruit

• Preheat the oven to 200 °F. Cut small, very thin orange or grapefruit slices and arrange on a plate lined with parchment paper.

• Cook for about 20 minutes and turn over the slices for another 20 minutes or until dry.

Photo credit: Alexandra Racine