With summer upon us, the pear trees in the Northwest are growing heavy with fruit to be harvested when the weather begins to turn cool again. I’m eagerly anticipating the new season’s crop—I can’t wait to sink my teeth into a brilliant red Starkrimson or a sweet, juicy Bartlett.

As we’re enjoying the last Green Anjou pears in the market, I thought it would be fun to bring you a few ways you can enjoy Oregon pears when they’re not in season. Hint: In liquid form.

Inventive vintners, distillers, and even soda makers across the Pacific Northwest have taken the unique, enticing flavor of the pear to create delicious beverages so you can enjoy pears year-round. Here are a few of my favorites:

Hoodsport Pear Wine
This wine, made from Washington pears, is light, crisp, and sweet. As the website suggests, it complements chicken, seafood, and white sauce pasta dishes. For a decadent yet light dessert, try poaching fresh pears in pear wine – it takes the flavor to a whole new level.

Clear Creek Distillery Pear Brandy
Clear Creek is world-renowned for this brandy. It is made from Bartlett pears grown in the Mid-Columbia region in Oregon. They also sell the brandy with the pear in the bottle—a truly impressive (and labor-intensive) feat.

Hot Lips Pear Soda
Comice pears give this pear soda a sweet, buttery flavor. Made from Oregon pears, Hot Lips soda is refreshing, light, and tasty. It makes an excellent float with a scoop or two of sorbet. Or add it to one of the above for a pear-fect cocktail!

Thirsty for more? Check out our cocktail guide and our pear beverage section for pear garnishes, recipes, and trade tips. Cheers!