A Pearl For June: 5 Elegant Birthstone-Based Drinks To Try
To many, birthdays are more than just a yearly opportunity for a party and presents, it's a chance to delve into the cosmic connections that shape your life. If you believe in astrology, then Zodiac signs are a wonderful way to explore your personality, and each month has its own special gemstone to make you feel treasured too. But who says that the only way to honour your birthstone is by wearing it? From fiery ruby reds to serene aquamarine blues, you can explore your spiritual connections through the world of colourful mixology with some unique, birthstone-inspired cocktails.
History Of Pearl And Its Birthstone Meaning
One of the most ancient natural wonders in the gemstone family, pearls are grown from nacre, the substance lining the shell of the mollusk parent. Historically, pearls were predominantly white or cream-coloured, the shades most commonly linked with these gems but they can come in a variety of colours which are linked to the species of mollusk in which they grow.
Pearls are often linked to the moon and lunar energy because of their shape and colour and were thought to embody qualities such as purity, humility, and innocence, embodying the essence of "sweet simplicity" in the meaning attributed to the June birthstone. Traditionally, pearls have been bestowed as wedding gifts, and they were believed to possess positive properties.
The astrological sign that pearls are predominantly linked to is Cancer who are thought to have traits of compassion, nurturing and sensitivity.
For those born in June, there are many ways to evoke the power of your birthstone in your drinks, here are 5 wonderful ways to bring a touch of the Pearl’s magic to your bar.
-
White Lady Cocktail
Simple and citrus-forward this refreshing cocktail has a bright white colour and a pure finish that embodies the nature of the precious pearl.
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Gordon’s London dry gin
- 20 ml orange liqueur
- 20 ml fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- 1 egg white (optional)
- Lemon twist (for garnish)
Method: In a shaker add the gin, liqueur and lemon juice along with ice, and shake till well-blended. If desired, you can also add egg whites for a frothy finish. Strain into a glass and serve with a twist.
-
Coconut Margarita
A tropical twist on the classic, this take on the margarita has a beautiful pearlescent glow and the subtle creaminess of coconut to transport you to a beach far far away.
Ingredients:
- 60 ml Don Julio Blanco Tequila
- 30 ml Coconut water
- 30 ml Fresh Lime Juice
- 15 ml Simple Syrup
- Ice Cubes
- Lime wedge and shredded coconut (for garnish)
Method: Shake the tequila, coconut water, lime juice and syrup together until incorporated. Rim a glass with coconut flakes and then strain in your cocktail and enjoy.
-
Eggnog
Traditionally a Christmas cocktail, but one whose smooth, sweet flavours can be enjoyed any time of the year. With spiced notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s like a hug in a glass.
Ingredients:
- 500 ml whole milk
- 250 ml heavy cream
- 100 ml sugar
- 60 ml Captain Morgan rum
- 4 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
Method: Gently heat the milk and cream over low heat. Combine the eggs and sugar and whisk together then add a little at a time to the cream mixture, stirring continuously. When the eggs are incorporated, add the nutmeg, vanilla, rum and salt and simmer for 5 minutes. Serve warm.
-
French 75
Classic, elegant and delicate, the French 75 combines the floral, botanical nature of gin and the bubbly finish of champagne for a delightful sip.
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Tanqueray No Ten gin
- 20 ml fresh lemon juice
- 10 ml simple syrup
- 60 ml chilled champagne
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Method: Shake together the gin, lemon juice and syrup until combined. Strain into a fluted glass and top with champagne, garnish with a lemon rind twist.
-
Pearl Beauty
Simple and smooth, this mocktail has all the delicate flavours of coconut offset by the acidic tang of pineapple.
Ingredients:
- 150 ml Coconut Cream
- 100 ml Pineapple Juice
- 50 ml Coconut Water
- 20 ml Simple Syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice Cubes
- Pineapple slices for garnish
Method: Combine all the ingredients in a large glass and stir them together. Strain into a tall glass and garnish with a pineapple wedge.
