SKINNY BEACH
Minimalism in a Glass
When you’re craving a cocktail that’s simple, refreshing, and light, Vodka Soda Lime (Skinny Beach) is the perfect choice. It’s popular among those who live a healthy lifestyle due to its very low calorie count.
Skinny Beach doesn’t have a complex history like some classic cocktails. It gained popularity during the 80s and 90s in Miami. People who lead a healthy lifestyle and are into fitness are the biggest fans of this cocktail. It’s a blend of summer refreshment and beach vibes, and in Miami, it’s more of a lifestyle than just a drink.
Ingredients:
- 50 ml vodka
- 120-150 ml soda water
- Freshly squeezed lime juice (from about a quarter of a lime)
- Ice
It’s recommended to serve it in a Collins glass, or a tall glass that’s not too wide or thin. Squeeze the lime quarter as much as possible over the glass, ensuring both the juice and the essential oils from the lime peel are released into the glass. Then, add ice and fill the glass with vodka and soda water. Stir gently with a bar spoon or any spoon you have on hand, moving from the bottom to the top of the glass a few times. Your cocktail is now ready. You can use a straw, but many regular drinkers prefer it without one, saying the flavors are more pronounced that way.
DIY Variations:
This cocktail offers plenty of opportunities for customization or small changes.
- Berry Beach: Add a couple of strawberries and raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Herbal Twist: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a subtle herbal aroma.
- Citrus Blast: Use a mix of freshly squeezed lime, lemon, and orange juice for a deeper citrus flavor.
Skinny Beach is proof that less is often more. Its simplicity, refreshing taste, and low-calorie profile make it a go-to choice for anyone looking to enjoy a cocktail without guilt. Give it a try—you might just love it! Cheers!
MOJITO
Refreshing Mint and Lime Delight
There isn’t a cocktail bar in the world that hasn’t heard of the Mojito. It’s one of the most popular cocktails, especially in tropical destinations and bars. This Cuban heritage drink traces its roots back to the 16th century. Mojito gained global fame thanks to author Ernest Hemingway, who frequently ordered it at the famous Havana bar “La Bodeguita del Medio.” Interestingly, it was a favorite drink of American tourists in Cuba during Prohibition. The cocktail became so significant that July 11th is celebrated as National Mojito Day in the U.S.
Ingredients
A traditional Mojito includes:
- White Rum – Provides the cocktail with a subtle alcohol aroma.
- Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice – Adds acidity and a refreshing flavor.
- Fresh Mint – A key element for its fragrance and flavor.
- Sugar – Use either brown sugar or simple syrup for sweetness.
- Soda Water – Essential for its light carbonation and refreshing effect.
- Crushed Ice or Ice Cubes – Serving with ice is a must.
Preparation
- Rum: 45 ml
- Fresh Lime Juice: 15 ml
- Simple Syrup: 10 ml
- Fresh Mint Leaves: 6-7 leaves
- Soda Water: Splash or top-up
- In a glass, squeeze the fresh lime juice or muddle half a lime cut into pieces.
- Add mint leaves and gently muddle them to release their oils and aroma—avoid over-muddling.
- Pour in the rum and simple syrup.
- Fill the glass halfway with ice and add soda water up to the same level.
- Stir gently using a bar spoon or similar utensil.
- Top the glass with more ice and finish with a splash of soda water.
- Garnish with fresh mint sprigs. To enhance the aroma, clap the mint between your hands before placing it on the drink.
- Serve with a straw.
DIY Variations
For those who enjoy experimenting, here are some ideas for twists on the classic Mojito:
- Strawberry Mojito – Fresh strawberries add a unique story to the drink.
- Mango Mojito – Use fresh mango or mango purée for a tropical twist.
- Passion Fruit Mojito – Combine passion fruit with mango for a vibrant flavor profile.
- Pineapple Mojito – Add fresh pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy kick.
For these variations, follow the basic recipe but substitute fruit purée for simple syrup or muddle fresh fruit with the lime and mint. For example:
- Half a passion fruit
- One pineapple chunk
- Three diced strawberries
Pairing Suggestions
Mojito suits all occasions, from business gatherings to private celebrations, summer parties, and romantic evenings. It pairs well with light meals like tacos and guacamole or desserts like lemon tarts and lime sorbets.
Mojito symbolizes relaxation, a leisurely pace of life, and the joy of small pleasures.
Find your Mojito and savor the moment! Cheers!
DARK AND STORMY
The Story of a Stormy Cocktail
The origins of the Dark ‘n’ Stormy cocktail trace back to Bermuda and are closely tied to a specific company. This cocktail dates to the early 20th century when sailors in Bermuda experimented with rum and homemade ginger beer crafted by British settlers.
As legend has it, the name “Dark and Stormy” was coined by a sailor who, watching the dark rum float atop the light ginger beer, remarked that it resembled “a cloud under which no sane man would sail.”
Dark and Stormy is one of the few cocktails with a registered trademark. Only Gosling’s Black Seal Rum can be used for the drink to officially bear its name. Any other rum is technically not a “true” Dark ‘n’ Stormy.
Beloved by sailors, the combination of ginger beer and lime was said to help combat seasickness. The cocktail also makes appearances in films, often ordered by characters who embody “bold explorers.”
Ingredients
- 60 ml Gosling’s Black Seal Rum (or another dark rum if unavailable)
- 90-120 ml ginger beer
- 15 ml freshly squeezed lime juice
- Ice
Preparation
- Use a highball or Collins glass. Pour the fresh lime juice into the glass.
- Add ice to fill the glass.
- Carefully pour the ginger beer into the glass, leaving some room at the top.
- Slowly float the rum over the ginger beer, allowing it to sit on the surface.
- Add a straw and garnish with a lime wedge, lime wheel, or a sprig of fresh mint.
Some prefer to enjoy the cocktail without mixing, first savoring the ginger beer and lime, then tasting the rum on top. Others prefer to stir and blend all the flavors. The choice is yours.
DIY Variations
- Spicy Stormy – Add spices to bring a warm kick to the drink.
- Tropical Stormy – Include a splash of pineapple juice and coconut water for a tropical twist.
- Stormy Mocktail – Replace the rum with a dark juice like blueberry, plum, or blackcurrant juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Dark ‘n’ Stormy carries a hint of adventurous spirit. Try it and embark on your own little adventure. Cheers!
GREEN TEA MULE
A Classic with a Refreshing Green Twist
This version of the Mule cocktail combines the spicy taste of ginger with the mild and earthy notes of green tea, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Green tea brings antioxidants and boosts metabolism, while ginger refreshes, improves circulation, aids digestion, reduces nausea, and increases energy.
Ingredients:
- 50 ml green tea (cooled)
- 50 ml vodka
- 15 ml freshly squeezed lime juice
- 100 ml ginger beer
- Ice
First, brew the green tea. Be careful to follow the brewing instructions closely; for example, do not exceed the recommended steeping time, and avoid boiling the water as this can burn the tea’s delicate aromas. The ideal water temperature is around 70°C. If the tea is steeped for too long, it may release tannins, which can create an unpleasant sensation on the tongue and result in bitterness and astringency.
It’s best to use a copper mug, the traditional vessel for a Mule cocktail. The copper helps keep the drink cold and adds authenticity. If you don’t have one, any regular glass will do. Fill the glass with ice, then add the freshly squeezed lime juice and vodka. Stir gently a few times. After mixing, pour in the ginger beer, filling the glass carefully to avoid overflowing due to the carbonation. Stir gently again and garnish with fresh mint sprigs.
Perfect for any day and easy to prepare, see if it’s the right drink for your day. Cheers!
HUGO SPRITZ
A Summer Charm in a Glass
The Hugo Spritz is a symbol of summer, relaxation, and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s such a simple yet sophisticated combination of ingredients. It balances freshness and sweetness, making it an ideal choice for warm days.
The origin of the Hugo Spritz is rather modest compared to other cocktails. Unlike many classic drinks, it is relatively new. It was created in 2005 in South Tyrol, a region in northern Italy that extends into Austria. It was designed as a lighter alternative to the Aperol Spritz. The original recipe included lime, Prosecco, and elderflower liqueur, giving the Hugo its simple and fruity character.
Ingredients:
- 60 ml Prosecco
- 30 ml elderflower liqueur
- 20 ml soda water
- 6-7 fresh mint leaves
- 2-3 lime wedges
- Ice
It is best served in a wine glass. Start by placing the mint leaves at the bottom of the glass and gently press them with a spoon to release their aromas. Next, add ice and pour in the Prosecco. Be careful when pouring, as the bubbles might cause foam to spill over. Afterward, add the elderflower liqueur, soda water, and a couple of lime wedges. Stir gently, and a straw is recommended. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and a lime wedge.
One of the key ingredients in this drink is elderflower liqueur. If you don’t have the liqueur, you can use elderflower syrup, but be careful not to overdo it to avoid making the cocktail too sweet. Elderflower has a strong historical presence in this region of Europe, where the cocktail originated. Elderflower blossoms were used in traditional medicine and to make refreshing drinks.
DIY Variations:
You can tweak the recipe and create your own version of Hugo Spritz, such as:
- Pink Hugo: Substitute half of the elderflower liqueur with raspberry syrup (based on the total amount for the cocktail).
- Strawberry Hugo: Follow the original recipe but replace the lime with 2-3 quartered strawberries, and you’ll notice a distinct change in flavor.
The Hugo Spritz quickly wins hearts—it’s more than just a drink. It’s a moment of enjoyment, a return to nature, and a little break from the busy everyday life. The next time you decide to take a pause, make yourself a Hugo or order one if you’re passing by. Sit in the sun and enjoy! Cheers!
EL DIABLO
An Exotic Cocktail with a Special Charm
El Diablo is a unique cocktail that blends spicy charm with refreshing notes. It was first introduced in Trader Vic’s Book of Food and Drink in 1946 by Victor J. Berger, known as Trader Vic. The cocktail was originally called “Mexican El Diablo,” highlighting the use of tequila, which was a rarer ingredient in American cocktails during the mid-20th century.
The combination of tequila, crème de cassis liqueur, and ginger beer was innovative, as crème de cassis is traditionally a French liqueur and rarely associated with Mexican spirits.
The name “El Diablo” (The Devil) is inspired by the spiciness of ginger and the mystique surrounding tequila. In modern times, El Diablo remains lesser-known compared to classics like the Margarita or Paloma, but its layered flavors make it a hidden gem!
Ingredients:
- 45 ml tequila
- 15 ml crème de cassis liqueur
- 15 ml freshly squeezed lime juice
- Ginger beer
- Ice
It’s best served in a Collins glass, or if you don’t have one, a tall, narrow glass will work. Pour all the ingredients directly into the glass. First, fill the glass with ice, then add the tequila, crème de cassis, and lime juice. Afterward, top it off with ginger beer, being careful not to overflow the glass as you pour. Stir gently with a bar spoon or any spoon you have on hand. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and a lime wedge.
DIY Variations:
You can experiment with different liqueurs in place of crème de cassis. Just be cautious not to choose one with too much sugar—stick to liqueurs and avoid syrups. A few extra milliliters can make the cocktail too sweet. You can try liqueurs like elderflower, pineapple, or passion fruit.
This cocktail has a surprise factor, so get creative and surprise your guests! Cheers!
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