Spring has sprung! The days are longer, the sun is warmer, and it’s the perfect time to shed the heavy cocktails of winter and embrace lighter, brighter drinks. Whether you’re looking for a classic gin option or a unique twist on a familiar favourite, these two spring cocktails are sure to set the mood for the season.
First up, we have the Spring Gin Rickey. This twist on the timeless Gin Rickey adds a touch of spring with its use of floral or citrusy gin. The result is a refreshingly light and bubbly drink that’s perfect for an afternoon brunch or a relaxing evening on the patio. The beauty of the Spring Gin Rickey lies in its simplicity. With just four key ingredients – gin, grapefruit juice, tonic water, and club soda – it’s a breeze to whip up for yourself or a group of friends. The key is to choose a gin that complements the spring theme. Opt for a gin that boasts strong floral or citrus notes, which will perfectly balance the tartness of the lime juice and the gentle bitterness of the tonic water.
The second delightful twist on a classic takes advantage of Pimm’s No. 1 a fruity gin-based liqueur, to create a refreshingly light drink. Balanced by the sweetness of elderflower liqueur and the tartness of lime juice, this cocktail is perfect for a spring brunch or a relaxing evening under the stars.
For those who prefer a touch of sweetness, a bar spoon of simple syrup can be added. While the recipe suggests a rosemary sprig for a lovely herbal touch, feel free to experiment with other options like a lime wedge or a cucumber slice for a bit of visual flair and an extra burst of flavour.
SPRINGTIME
~Ingredients
- 2 OZ PIMM’S NO. 1
- 3/4 OZ FRESH LEMON JUICE
- 1/2 OZ ELDERFLOWER LIQUEUR (LIKE ST-GERMAIN)
- TOP WITH SODA WATER
- GARNISH WITH A MINT SPRIG, CUCUMBER SLICE, AND EDIBLE FLOWER
Instructions
- In a shaker filled with ice, combine Pimm’s, lemon juice, and elderflower liqueur.
- Shake well and strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
- Top with soda water and garnish with a mint sprig, cucumber slice, and an edible flower for an extra spring touch.
SPRING GIN RICKEY
~Ingredients
- 2 OZ GIN
- ½ OZ FRESH GRAPEFRUIT JUICE
- ¾ OZ TONIC WATER (ADJUST TO YOUR DESIRED BITTERNESS)
- CLUB SODA TO TOP ROSEMARY SPRIG FOR GARNISH
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add gin and grapefruit juice to the glass.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Top with ¾ oz tonic water and then club soda to fill the glass.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig.
