Congrats, you’ve made it, we can finally bid farewell to the dreaded Dry (or, for those embracing a touch of 'moist'), January. You’ve pushed through what is considered the longest and quietest month of the year and now it’s time to enjoy that well deserved drink, however, a bit of brisk breeze awaits you out there…that is unless you happen to reside on a tropical island.
This month we decided to help you wet your whistle, yet in a more sophisticated and elevated fashion. It is actually an easy feat to create luxury cocktails in the comfort of your home with zero mixology experience, be that to Netflix and Chill, or host some friends. To help embark you on this spirited journey, we've been traversing the globe, unearthing exclusive spirits, consulting with mixology maestros, and, most importantly, experimenting with a medley of ideas. Our mission: to help you "Elevate Your Spirits."
So don’t worry, sit back and have a read; whether you're a seasoned mixologist or just starting your cocktail adventure, these carefully curated recipes featuring the finest of spirits are sure to tantalise your taste buds and elevate your libation game.
1. Glen Fizz: A Symphony of Whisky Craftsmanship
Glenturret's rich heritage and exceptional whisky craftsmanship set the stage for the Glen Fizz. This unique cocktail blends the vibrancy of fresh lemon juice, the subtle sweetness of simple syrup, and the frothy indulgence of egg white. The Glen Fizz is more than a drink; it's a mixology experience, a harmonious balance of whisky robustness, citrusy tartness, and sweet undertones that invites you to savour the sophistication of a well-crafted cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
- 1 Egg White
- Sparkling Water
Instructions:
1. Combine Glenturret Whisky, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white in a shaker without ice.
2. Dry shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with sparkling water.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist.
2. Cognac by Farmily - Classic Sidecar: A Farmily Affair
We actually trailed to Milan for this one! Farmily Group Milan have released a prestigious Cognac, aptly known as the champagne of spirit. Curated by the ingenious minds behind Italy's iconic bars Backdoor 43 and the elusive and secretive 1930's Bar, Farmily's Cognac stands as an essential choice for your at-home cocktail experience this year. Not only does this help those experience a fantastic journey with enjoying Cognac it indeed promises an unparalleled blend of distinctive flavours.
Crafted with their exceptional Cognac, the Classic Sidecar is an indulgence in expertise and distinctive flavours. With the richness of Cognac, the zest of Triple Sec, and a touch of fresh lemon juice, this cocktail promises a fine sipping experience. The sugar-rimmed glass or caramelised citrine adds a touch of elegance, making it an unparalleled choice for connoisseurs seeking sophistication in every sip.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Cognac
- 3/4 oz Triple Sec
- 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- Sugar for rimming if desired and finished with a caramelised lemon/orange
Instructions:
1. Rim a chilled cocktail glass with sugar.
2. In a shaker, combine Cognac, Triple Sec, and fresh lemon juice with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass.
3. Old Pulteney 12 Years Single Malt Scotch Whisky - Maritime Mule: Salute to the Sea*
Old Pulteney's Maritime Mule pays homage to the distillery's coastal roots and unique flavour profile. This cocktail combines the briny character of Old Pulteney Scotch Whisky with fresh lime juice and the effervescence of ginger beer. Served with a lime wedge, it's a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule, capturing the spirit of the sea and delivering a taste of maritime traditions.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Old Pulteney 12 Years Single Malt Scotch Whisky
- 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- Ginger Beer
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug with ice.
2. Pour Old Pulteney Scotch and fresh lime juice over the ice.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge or fresh mint for decoration
4. Caorunn Gin in Scottish Raspberry - Berry Bliss: Highland Indulgence**
Immerse yourself in the Highland heritage with the Caorunn - Berry Bliss cocktail. This mix of Caorunn Gin, mixed berry puree, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice creates a refreshing and sophisticated drink. Garnished with basil leaves, it's a celebration of craftsmanship and nature, making it the perfect choice for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a refined experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Caorunn Gin
- 1 oz Mixed Berry Puree (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
- 1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- Basil leaves or fresh berries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shaker, muddle a few basil leaves.
2. Add Caorunn Gin, mixed berry puree, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with a single basil leaf or more berries.
5. Conker Coffee Liqueur Chocolaté Infusion: Velvet Mocha Martini
This Velvet Mocha Martini combines the robust notes of Conker Coffee Liquor with the decadent richness of Montezuma Chocolate, creating a symphony of flavours reminiscent of a luscious mocha. The result is a cocktail that transcends ordinary indulgence, inviting you to savour the magic of both Conker and Montezuma in every velvety sip. Cheers to decadent moments and unparalleled taste experiences!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Conker Coffee Liquor
- 1 oz Montezuma Chocolate - we love Spice It Up Ginger Dark Chocolate for this
- 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
- 1 oz Fresh Brewed Espresso (chilled)
- Chocolate Shavings and Coffee Beans for garnish
Instructions:
1. Chill and Decorate:
- Melt Montezuma Chocolate and use it to decorate the inside of the martini glass. Freeze to set while preparing.
2. Shake It:
- In an iced shaker, mix Conker Coffee Liquor, melted Montezuma Chocolate, Simple Syrup, and chilled espresso.
3. Vigorously Shake:
- Shake for 15-20 seconds to create a rich froth.
4. Strain and Pour:
- Strain the velvety mix into the decorated, chilled glass, allowing it to cascade.
5. Garnish Luxuriously:
- Sprinkle generous chocolate shavings and add coffee beans for sophistication.
6. Sip and Savour:
- Delight in the inviting aroma before relishing the luxurious sips of your Conker Coffee Liquor Chocolaté Infusion.
6. Balblair Whisky - Highland Sour: A Conversation Starter
Balblair Whisky boasts a rich history dating back to 1790, making it one of the oldest distilleries in the Scottish Highlands. Steeped in tradition and craftsmanship, Balblair has consistently produced exceptional single-malt Scotch whisky, each bottle a testament to the distillery's commitment to quality and heritage.
The Balblair Whisky - Highland Sour stands out as a one-of-a-kind cocktail. Blending Balblair Single Malt Scotch Whisky (we opted for the 12 year), with fresh lemon juice and honey syrup, it offers a luscious complexity. Garnished with an orange twist, this cocktail is more than a drink; it's a symbol of sophistication, a conversation starter, and the perfect companion for any social gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Balblair Single Malt Scotch Whisky
- 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/2 oz Honey Syrup (1:1 honey and water)
- Orange twist for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shaker, combine Balblair Scotch, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a rock glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with an orange twist or for a feminine touch flower petals
7. Bar 45 Negroni Trolley: Negroni Reimagined - For those wanting to leave the house
Nestled in the heart of London, 45 Park Lane's Bar 45 stands as a beacon of luxurious imbibing, offering an unparalleled experience with their statement Negroni trolley.
In 2022, the Negroni reclaimed its throne as the world's most sold cocktail, and Bar 45 are elevating this classic to new heights. This opulent trolley presents six meticulously handcrafted Negronis, each thoughtfully paired with a bespoke edible fragrance that complements the essence of this classic aperitif. The sensory journey reaches its pinnacle as a fragrant mist, embodying the soul of each Negroni, is delicately sprayed onto the drink just before serving.
What sets this experience apart is the ingenious addition of science to each drink, some of which are given distinct flavour from the marination of sweet red pepper or chamomile tea and of course the formulation of the edible perfumes, adding an extra layer of sophistication to an already iconic cocktail.
For those seeking the epitome of Negroni celebration, Bar 45 proudly offers a rare Vintage Negroni too, a legacy in their bar.
Crafted with Gordon’s London Dry Gin from the 1970s, Campari from the 1980s and Antica Formula from the 1980s, this Vintage Negroni is a liquid time capsule, transporting patrons to the golden eras of spirits.
Priced at £89, the Vintage Negroni the final of the six presented on the menu, is not just a drink; it's a curated experience, a symphony of flavours and aromas that dance on the palate. While it may be the most expensive libation in London, its uniqueness and the impeccable service delivered from the Negroni trolley make it an extraordinary indulgence.
At Bar 45, the Negroni isn't just a cocktail; it's a testament to the timeless artistry of mixology and an invitation to savour the heights of liquid luxury.
8. Alain Depoivre Champagne & White Heron British Cassis - Raspberry Royale: Effervescent Elegance
In a sparkling union of elegance and innovation, we present the Champagne Raspberry Royale—an exquisite blend marrying the distinguished Alain Depoivre Champagne with the captivating White Heron British Cassis.
Originating from the Vindey region of Champagne, Epernay, France, Alain Depoivre represents the third generation of the esteemed Depoivre Champagne dynasty. Renowned for their commitment to quality, the family engages in small-batch production to preserve the distinct crisp flavours of their grapes. Offering a premium range, including a Rosé Champagne, Blanc de Noirs, Prestige Champagne, and Grand Reserve, alongside larger quantities of their Brut tradition, your taste buds are in for a sensorial journey through the finest expressions of the grape.
Adding to this opulence is White Heron's British Cassis—a transformative player in the market. Crafted with blackcurrants cultivated in the fields of Herefordshire, this full-bodied liqueur from the Green family, stewards of the estate since 1876 under the leadership of Jo, captivates with its delicious intensity. Echoing the Depoivre dynasty's dedication, the Green family also prioritise quality over mass production, yielding flavours that are truly unparalleled.
When these two exceptional brands combine, they create a symphony of flavours that is nothing short of irresistible. The crisp bubbles of Alain Depoivre Champagne dance in harmony with the vibrant, fruity notes of White Heron Cassis, resulting in a cocktail that exudes elegance, playfulness, and vivacious charm.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz (30 ml) British Cassis by White Heron (black raspberry liqueur)
- Fresh raspberries
- Alain Depoivre Champagne
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Begin by adding a fresh raspberry or two to the bottom of a chilled champagne flute.
2. Pour in the Cassis, allowing it to settle at the bottom of the glass.
3. Carefully top off the glass with Alain Depoivre Champagne, allowing the effervescence to mix the Cassis as it's poured.
4. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an added touch of colour and aroma.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful blend of flavours and the effervescence of both dynasties in this exquisite cocktail.
9. Neurita Picante Tequila - Spicy Citrus Margarita: A Bold Adventure
Prepare to set your taste buds ablaze with the introduction of our Spicy Citrus Margarita using Neurita Picante Tequila. Crafted by the visionary entrepreneur Lucy Smith, the maestro behind Neurita, this cocktail promises to be a game-changer in your spirits repertoire.
Just in time for the ever romantic Valentine's Day, Founder Lucy Smith is unveiling her latest masterpiece—Neurita Tequila Blanco Picante, an addition that sparks the flames of a cocktail revolution. This sleek tequila cocktail, designed for those seeking an adventurous libation, beckons you to savour every moment.
This Spicy Citrus Margarita, is a symphony of flavours with jalapeño, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar converge making this a sensual and electrifying concoction.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Neurita Picante Tequila
- 1 oz Triple sec
- 1 oz Fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz Agave nectar
- Sliced jalapeño
- Chili powder and salt for rimming
- Lime wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with a mixture of chilli flakes or salt.
2. In a shaker, muddle a few slices of jalapeño. Add Neurita Picante Tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave nectar.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
4. Strain the cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel or a jalapeño for an extra kick and presentation.
10. Alain Dupoivre Prestige Champagne: Savouring the Luxurious Moment
We now revisit our friends from earlier, Alain Dupoivre, but this time introducing their Prestige Champagne, best sipped chilled and slowly for an indulgent experience. Each effervescent sip carries a legacy of craftsmanship and refinement of their 3rd generation champagne, where the full flavours of the pinot noir, chardonnay and distinct earthy flavour make it a palatable and pleasurable champagne . Taking the time to savour this exceptional champagne will encourage mindfulness, and a sensory journey that captivates the senses, elevating the ordinary into the extraordinary.
11. Hoxton Pink Gin and Rose Lemonade Spritz: Floral Elegance
Next, we dive into the world of Hoxton Spirits, a brand that we feel encapsulates the vivacity and eccentricities of its birthplace, London. Born amidst the lively streets and spirited atmosphere of the city, Hoxton Spirits embodies the essence of London's dynamic and ever-evolving cocktail culture.
This refreshing cocktail will cement you as a friend favourite as it is palatable and refreshing for all. Mixing Hoxton Pink Gin and Elderflower Liqueur, this pink floral spritz will level up your pink gin game, stepping away from the ordinary, this cocktail is flirty, fresh and a delightful fusion of vibrant and floral notes. This cocktail is a celebration of the free-spirited, eclectic charm that characterises the heart of London and Londoner’s alike
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Hoxton Pink Gin
- 0.5 oz Elderflower liqueur (St-Germain)
- 2-3 oz Rose lemonade (Fentimans)
- 1/2 oz Fresh lemon juice
- Sparkling Water
- Flowers or berries for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. In a shaker, combine Hoxton Pink Gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lemon juice. Shake well.
3. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
4. Top with rose lemonade and a splash of sparkling water.
5. Gently stir to combine.
6. Garnish with edible flowers or fresh berries for a beautiful and fragrant presentation.
7. Serve and savour this elegant and floral Hoxton Pink Gin and Rose Lemonade Spritz.
12. Marley's Melodic Fusion: A Hoxton Harmony
In honour of the release of the much anticipated film, Bob Marley: One Love, hitting screens this February 2024, we created a Caribbean fusion with the island's most staple ingredient - rum. “Marley's Melodic Fusion: A Hoxton Harmony '' is a unique fusion blending the tropical sweetness of Hoxton Banana Rum with the botanical symphony of the brand’s Dry Gin.
A favourite at HQ, you and your friends will embark on a harmonious island vibe journey. Why? Well Marley himself rose to fame following success in the UK, he was so fond of the country, he recorded albums Kaya and Exodus (which stayed on the British album charts for 56 consecutive weeks) there. This cocktail is an ode to the island he was born on and the island where his music was much loved. The combination of these flavours transport you to the sun-kissed beaches and rhythmic beats of Jamaica with a nod to the UK. So raise your glass throughout 2024 to the legendary Bob Marley and the flavourful fusion of this cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Hoxton Dry Gin
- 1 oz Hoxton Banana Rum
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
- 1 Egg White (optional for frothiness)
- 2 oz Pineapple Juice
- Ice Cubes
- Banana slice or fresh Pineapple for garnish
Instructions:
1. Shake or 'stir' it Up:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine Hoxton Dry Gin, Hoxton Banana Rum, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and optionally, add the egg white for a frothy texture.
2. Dry Shake:
- Dry shake the mixture (without ice) vigorously for about 10 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create a velvety texture.
3. Add Ice:
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 10-15 seconds to chill the mixture.
4. Strain into a Glass:
- Strain the vibrant concoction into a glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Top with Pineapple Bliss:
- Pour the pineapple juice over the mixture, allowing the tropical flavours to mingle with the gin and banana rum.
6. Garnish with a Tropical Touch:
- Garnish with a banana slice or pineapple slice on the rim for a burst of freshness.
7. Sip and Savour:
- Take a sip, close your eyes, and imagine yourself on a sun-soaked beach with the refreshing taste of this cocktail.
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
