There’s a certain kind of magic that comes alive when you stumble into a bar that feels both timeless and fresh. Nestled in the heart of Woodstock, Vermont, Au Comptoir has quickly become one of those rare places—a space that charms you from the very first step inside.
With its Parisian-inspired décor—think shimmering chandeliers, golden accents, soft sheepskin throws, and rustic beams—the bar feels like a tucked-away European hideout. It’s cozy and chic, intimate yet vibrant, and unmistakably stylish. Every corner invites you to linger just a little longer.
The vision comes from Zoe Zillian, co-founder of Farmhouse Pottery, who opened Au Comptoir this past summer. Known for her impeccable taste and knack for creating warm, beautiful spaces, Zoe has once again struck the perfect balance of refinement and comfort. Adding to that charm is Nick, the resident bartender and mixologist, who brings his own energy to the space through inventive cocktails crafted with seasonal, fresh ingredients.
And as the weather cools, Au Comptoir has leaned into fall with a drink that couldn’t feel more appropriate for the season: The Cardigan.
Meet The Cardigan
If fall could be distilled into a glass, it would taste like this. Aptly named, The Cardigan is cozy, layered, and just a little bit indulgent—much like your favorite knit sweater. With notes of toasted pecans, warming spices, ginger, and a refreshing touch of lime, this bourbon-based cocktail strikes the perfect balance between bold and approachable.
It’s the kind of drink that pairs beautifully with crisp evenings, crackling fires, and long conversations that stretch into the night.
How to Make The Cardigan at Home
You don’t have to be in Woodstock to enjoy this fall-inspired cocktail. Here’s the recipe, straight from Au Comptoir’s bar to your kitchen:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz toasted pecan–infused bourbon
- 0.75 oz fresh-squeezed lime juice
- 0.5 oz ginger syrup
- 1 teaspoon allspice dram
- Small pinch of salt
- Soda water, to top
Directions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, lime juice, ginger syrup, allspice dram, and salt.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a tall glass over fresh ice.
- Top with soda water for a light, effervescent finish.
- Garnish with a dried orange wheel.
The toasted pecan bourbon is what makes this drink shine, giving it a nutty, almost dessert-like depth. If you don’t already have infused bourbon on hand, it’s worth making (simply steep pecans in bourbon for a few days). The result adds richness and warmth that elevates the entire cocktail.
Why This Drink Works
The beauty of The Cardigan is in its balance. The bourbon provides structure and depth, while ginger syrup adds a gentle kick of spice. Allspice dram brings in cozy, holiday-adjacent notes, and lime juice cuts through with brightness, keeping the drink from feeling heavy. The soda water is the final touch—refreshing and light, so every sip feels crisp rather than overly sweet.
It’s a cocktail that’s sophisticated but approachable, festive without being fussy. And much like a real cardigan, it’s versatile—you can dress it up for a dinner party or sip it casually on a quiet night in.
More Than Just a Bar
If you do find yourself in Woodstock, stopping by Au Comptoir is an experience all on its own. Beyond the cocktails, the bar has an atmosphere that feels like a gathering place—part European café, part rustic Vermont escape. And while the drinks are the star of the show, don’t skip their homemade onion dip with chips. Trust me: it’s one of those simple yet unforgettable bites that pairs perfectly with a cocktail in hand.
A New Fall Ritual
As fall settles in, there’s something comforting about discovering a drink that feels tailor-made for the season. The Cardigan is exactly that: familiar yet surprising, warming yet refreshing. It’s a cocktail that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and celebrate the season’s flavors.
Whether you’re lucky enough to sip it at Au Comptoir in Woodstock or mix it up at home, The Cardigan is one of those drinks you’ll want to return to again and again. Just like your favorite sweater, it’s sure to become a seasonal staple.
