Clay pots, Brass Vessels: Traditional Methods To Cool Your Cocktails For An Earthy Elevation

When it comes to crafting cocktails, the chilling technique you employ can be as crucial as the mix of ingredients itself. But instead of reaching for that trusty ice bucket or the freezer, why not take a leaf out of the Indian playbook and experiment with some traditional chilling methods? 

Whether it's using clay pots or brass vessels, these techniques do more than just cool your drinks—they infuse them with a subtle, earthy vibe that can elevate your cocktail game.

The Magic of Clay

Clay pots, or ‘matkas’ as they're known in the subcontinent, have been used for centuries to cool water. But have you ever thought of using them to chill your cocktails? Here’s the twist: the porous nature of clay allows water to seep through and evaporate, cooling the contents inside naturally. This method is perfect for those long, sultry afternoons when you crave a refreshingly cool drink without diluting it with ice.

Try this with a Smirnoff Green Apple Vodka spritzer. Mix 60 ml of vodka with sparkling water and a dash of lime, and let it sit in a small clay pot. As the pot sweats, your drink chills, picking up a subtle, earthy undertone that will complement the crispness of the apple vodka beautifully.

The Brilliance of Brass

Brass vessels aren’t just for grand Indian weddings. Their high thermal conductivity makes them excellent for chilling drinks quickly. A brass mug or bowl filled with crushed ice can chill a cocktail in minutes, adding a regal touch to your drink setup.

For a twist, whip up a Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve whisky sour. Combine 60 ml of whisky, fresh lemon juice, and a teaspoon of sugar in a brass cocktail shaker. Shake well and pour into a brass cup filled with ice. The rapid chilling in brass will add a smooth, metallic finish that heightens the silky texture of the whisky.

Granite Grit

Granite stones are another lesser-known chilling agent. Often used in India to grind spices, granite stones can be chilled in the freezer and added to cocktails to cool them without watering down the taste. This method is ideal for preserving the robust flavours of spirits.

Enhance a Tanqueray No.10 gin and tonic by placing chilled granite stones in a glass. Pour 60 ml of gin and top it off with some tonic water. The stones maintain the purity and botanical notes of the gin, providing a crisp, undiluted taste.

Terracotta Touch

Terracotta, like clay, offers a natural cooling effect with an additional rustic charm. Use small terracotta bowls to serve chilled cocktail shots. The porous walls cool the liquid and add a hint of earthiness that pairs well with spicy or herbal drinks.

Serve up shots of Ciroc Vodka infused with jalapeño and coriander in these terracotta cups. The subtle earthiness of the terracotta complements the spice of the jalapeño and the freshness of the coriander, making for a memorable shot.

These traditional Indian chilling techniques not only keep your drinks cold but also add an unexpected twist to the flavour profile, marrying the old world with the new in your cocktail glass. So next time you’re stirring up drinks, consider ditching the ice for something a bit more inventive. Your taste buds (and guests) will thank you!