A shrub is a drinking vinegar — a mix of fruit, vinegar, and sugar that’s been used for centuries as a flavorful, tangy base for drinks. It’s the secret behind a lot of the complex, balanced flavor you taste in a great cocktail or mocktail.

Wicked Bess shrubs are bartender-created — made specifically for cocktails and mocktails, not adapted from a general recipe. That bartending background is why each shrub is perfectly balanced, with layers of complexity you’d expect from a craft cocktail, but built for ease of use at home. The flavor profiles also carry a distinct edge inspired by Caribbean heritage — a perspective brought to every blend by a Boston-born-and-raised bartender with Caribbean roots.

“Wicked” is New England slang — I was born and raised in New England, where wicked means extremely or extra. “Bess” is Caribbean slang for “best.” Wicked Bess translates to “extra awesome,” and the name captures what the shrubs themselves are about: combining those two worlds. While developing recipes, it occurred to me that I was blending New England and Caribbean influences — and the name followed naturally from that.

The spice is balanced, not overwhelming — it adds a nice warmth rather than heat that takes over. Even our spicier flavors (like Pineapple Lime Mandarin Habanero and Pear Lime Ginger Jalapeño) work for all but the most spice-sensitive palates.

Vinegar is what makes a shrub a shrub — it’s the traditional preservative that gives these drinks their signature tangy backbone and long shelf life, a technique that goes back centuries. It also balances out the sweetness of the fruit and sugar, the same way a squeeze of citrus does in a cocktail.

Not in the way straight vinegar does. Once it’s diluted with soda water or a spirit, the vinegar mellows into a bright, tart edge — closer to a good sour mix or shrubbed citrus than anything sharp or pickle-like.

Wicked Bess shrubs are perfect for both cocktails and mocktails! Whether you’re looking for a non-alcoholic refreshment or a unique addition to your alcoholic beverages, our shrubs provide the ideal base.

For a mocktail, mix 1 oz of shrub with 4 oz of soda water. For cocktails, blend 1 oz of shrub with 2 oz of your preferred spirit and 2 oz of soda water. Adjust to taste.

Unopened, our shrubs have a shelf life of over a year. Once opened, refrigerate and enjoy within a few months for the best flavor experience.

Not before opening — unopened bottles are shelf-stable. Once opened, refrigerate and enjoy within a few months for the best flavor.

Yes, our shrubs are made with all-natural ingredients, without artificial preservatives or flavors. We believe in keeping our products pure and simple.

Absolutely! Our shrubs are versatile and can be mixed with gin, vodka, tequila, rum, and even whiskey for a delightful twist on your favorite cocktails.

Yes, our shrubs are gluten-free. They are made from ingredients that do not contain gluten, making them safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

We sure do! See our recipes or follow us on social media for a variety of recipes, from classic cocktails to innovative mocktails and everything in between.

If you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, we’ll give you a full refund within 30 days of your delivery date — no return necessary, so there’s no return shipping to worry about. This also covers bottles that arrive damaged in transit: just contact us with your order details and we’ll take care of a refund, no need to send anything back.

For any inquiries, please email us at wcaines@wickedbess.com. We’re always here to help and look forward to assisting you!