A Beginner’s Guide To Mixing The Perfect Spring Or Any-Season Drink
Let's dive into a special selection of spring cocktails, where the motto is ‘fresh is best,’ and the aim is to have a bit of fun behind the bar. Whether you're a mixology novice or just looking to expand your repertoire with some seasonal sips to serve this spring, we've got you covered.
The Essentials
Understanding your base spirit is key. With Don Julio Blanco, you're working with a crisp and clean tequila carrying a subtle agave sweetness—ideal for lighter, brighter cocktails. Singleton whisky, on the other hand, brings a smooth, malty depth to drinks, offering a different kind of complexity. And for those looking to skip the booze without skimping on flavour, the Johnnie Walker Refreshing Mixer is your go-to for crafting something special that everyone can enjoy.
Crafting the Perfect Serve
You've got a bottle of Don Julio Blanco and a thirst for something unique. Try mixing up a Tequila Honey Bee. It’s not your standard tequila fare, but it is a game-changer. Combine 45 ml Don Julio Blanco, 15 ml of honey syrup (honey and water simmered together, easy-peasy), a good squeeze of lemon juice, and a dash of bitters. Shake it up and strain it into a glass over ice. It’s smooth and sweet with a sting, and it's utterly moreish.
Whisky Wonders
Whisky in spring? Say no more. Singleton's versatile profile means it can easily be the star of a refreshing cocktail. Let’s make a Whisky Bramble. You'll need 45 ml Singleton, 15 ml of lemon juice, 10 ml of simple syrup, and 15 ml of blackberry liqueur. Shake the whisky, lemon, and syrup, pour over crushed ice, and then drizzle the liqueur over the top for a stunning layered effect. It’s a fruity, slightly tart concoction that'll have you rethinking whisky’s place in your spring cocktail lineup.
The Non-Alcoholic Potion: JW Refreshing Mixer
For a non-alcoholic treat that doesn't skimp on complexity, the JW Refreshing Mixer is your go-to. Mix it with ginger ale and a dash of elderflower cordial for some spring in your glass. Add a couple of lime wedges and fresh mint for garnish. It’s perfect for those afternoons when you want the social aspect of a drink without the spirits.
A couple of tips before you start:
Taste as you go. Too sweet? Add more lime. Too strong? A splash more mixer. This isn’t baking; precision isn’t the goal.
Use fresh ingredients as much as possible. Squeezing a lime is worth the effort, and your cocktails will taste infinitely better.
Ice is not just for chilling, it’s part of the drink. It dilutes the cocktail slightly, melding the flavours together beautifully. Don’t skimp on it.
