With the good weather set to stick around and a long weekend ahead, it’s the perfect time to try DIY cocktails at home or experiment with a new drink
A rare and wonderful thing is happening in Ireland right now. We’re having a mini heatwave (temperatures are set to soar as high as 27 degrees across Ireland on Thursday, and the sunshine is staying put for the next few days), and the June bank holiday weekend is here. Timing like this only comes around every few years, and while bars remain closed due to Covid-19 restrictions, there’s no reason we can’t enjoy some tasty drinks and cocktails at home this long weekend. Why not use it as an opportunity to try a new tipple? Here are some ideas for drinks and cocktails to try at home:
Refreshing Lillet Spritz
Lillet, pronounced lee-lay, is an award-winning aperitif from Bordeaux that has a subtle blend of wine and fruit infusions. At only 17% ABV, it’s a lovely option for those looking for a low alcohol drink with lots of flavour. To create a spritz, simply pour Lillet Rosé into a large wine glass full of ice cubes. Add tonic water and stir gently, garnishing with lime and strawberry. It’s available nationwide, and at the moment O’Brien’s has a special offer of Lillet Rosé and Fevertree Tonic for €25.
Stillgarden Raspberry Soiree
Stillgarden Distillery is a new independent distillery at the heart of the community in Inchicore, Dublin. With the aim to involve local people, the distillery has created a community garden on their site in Goldenbridge Estate. An area of wasteland has been cleared of litter and planted with botanicals, thanks to help from a dedicated team of local gardeners.
The gin is available to buy here (€29, 500ml), with delivery nationwide, and we love the sound of Stillgarden’s take on the classic Raspberry Collins. Topped with soda water or Prosecco, this refreshing summer spritz sounds ideal. Check them out on social media for updates and recipes (above).
Treat yourself to world-renowned rosé
Rosé has seen a big increase in demand in Ireland in recent years. It’s especially enjoyed in the warm weather, making it a perfect bank holiday tipple. Perhaps one of the most well-known rosés available is Whispering Angel – the brand that apparently launched the “Rosé Renaissance”. An enormously renowned rosé, thanks to its refreshing and crisp acidity, Whispering Angel 2019 is available from selected Dunnes Stores, Avoca and off licenses nationwide (€25, 750ml).
Ginger & Lemongrass Whiskey Sour
This cocktail by Bottlegreen has an exotic flavour, using the ginger and lemongrass flavour of the cordial (available in supermarkets, €3.49). It is especially unique as it is created using aquafaba (the water from a tin of chickpeas or beans) instead of egg white for the frothy texture. Place all the ingredients (below) in a shaker and shake hard. Do not add any ice to ensure you can create a foamy texture. Once you have achieved a foamy consistency, add ice, and shake further until the drink is chilled. Strain into an ice filled tumbler and garnish with a slice of lemon or piece of ginger for a little more fire.
- 50ml bourbon (Wild Turkey 101 or Bulleit Bourbon works well)
- 25ml lemon juice
- 20ml Bottlegreen Ginger & Lemongrass Cordial
- 5ml sugar syrup
- 25ml aquafaba
- Slice of lemon or ginger to garnish
Enjoy a whiskey tasting at home
For those who might like to try something new, The Irish Whiskey Museum is hosting weekly premium whiskey tastings every Friday night from 8-9pm, starting on May 29. The Whiskey Lock-In includes four carefully curated miniature whiskeys and a souvenir glass delivered to guests’ doors in time for kick-off. Hosted by a trained whiskey expert, the tasting costs €40 and is currently only available to participants who live in Dublin due to delivery restrictions. More information here.
Always drink responsibly, see drinkaware.ie.
