#CocktailForACure: Local restaurants team with Gin Lane 1751 in breast cancer fight

(Editors' note: This story has been edited to include more information.)

A handful of Central Massachusetts restaurants are encouraging guests to raise a glass with intention this October. Anna’s Table, Armsby Abbey, Bocado Tapas Wine Bar, The Boynton, ‘Olo Pizza, and Volturno are all partnering with Gin Lane 1751 to raise funds for breast cancer research. Due to recent advances, there are now more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in America. However, for decades, the taboo of women’s bodies coupled with gender bias in the medical field prevented important progress in breast cancer research from taking place. Critical work remains. 

Geoff Curley, founder of Gin Lane 1751, knows firsthand the devastation breast cancer brings to families everywhere. Having lost multiple relatives to breast cancer, Curley has channeled his grief and frustration by leveraging his popular artisanal gin brand to help fight for a cure. Every September and October, Gin Lane 1751 donates 50% of its profits to support life-saving breast cancer research with The Pink Agenda, a New York-based charity whose sole beneficiary is the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. BCRF has worked to decrease breast cancer mortality rates by 43% over the last three decades. Despite this exciting progress, more than 43,000 lives are still lost annually, making innovative research an essential priority to address this disease.

This year, Gin Lane 1751 is determined to reach its widest audience yet. “The brand is also donating an extra $5 for every social media post that tags #cocktailforacure and @ginlane1751,” shared Curley. “So whether you go to a bar or restaurant or pick up a bottle at your local store and mix something at home — when you post your cocktail creation to your feed, even more money will go towards kicking cancer’s butt!”

Sarah Storie, owner of Anna’s Table in Leominster is eager to participate in Cocktail for a Cure with the addition of Think Pink Sangria to her fall menu. The cocktail features Gin Lane 1751 'Victoria' Pink Gin, pear liquor, and a house made plum and thyme simple syrup. It’s finished with a splash of fresh lemon juice and a crisp sparkling rosé. “Join us through October to enjoy a refreshing beverage for a great cause,” says Storie. 

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"Breast cancer has affected the lives of so many people we know and love," shared Sherri Sadowski. "As a woman, this is a cause that sits particularly close to my heart. I have known, loved, supported, and lost so many women to breast cancer. When Joy Flanagan, our former bar manager at Armsby Abbey, pitched us on the Gin Lane fundraiser to promote breast cancer awareness month, it wasn't even a question. We will always do whatever we can to support our former employees and help fundraise to find a cure to support cancer patients & their families in their times of need." 

Every sip of Gin Lane 1751 can help make a difference during the month of October. Indulge in fall flavors with a Stick Season at Armsby Abbey made with Gin Lane Royal Strength and butternut squash cordial. Savor Indian summer at Anna’s Table with a round of $2 Monday oysters and a Think Pink Sangria. Or, share your own creation on social media with the hashtag #cocktailforacure. Raise a cheers with cocktails that count — help fund the research needed to save lives and ultimately, put an end to breast cancer.

Sarah Connell Sanders is an educator, and regular columnist for Worcester Magazine. She welcomes follows on Instagram, sarah_connell.