Yes, World Cocktail day is a thing, really.
And what's better - it's today (May 13).
The date was created to mark the publication date of the first definition of a cocktail, way back on May 13, 1806.
So to celebrate, treat yourself to one of these classic cocktails - no fancy equipment required!
The White Russian
Nothing says luxury in a glass like a White Russian, and the best part? It’s easy to recreate at home. In less than five minutes, you too could be sipping on this moreish concoction.
What you need:
Two measures vodka (about 70ml)
One measure Kahlua or Tia Maria (35ml)
A splash of double cream (it’s decadence we are after here so skip the thin watery stuff).
Simply pour the vodka and the coffee liqueur of your choice into a tumbler filler with ice. Add the cream, stir and enjoy.
The Tom Collins
A classic long cocktail, perfect for summer sipping. It’s basically a hard lemonade, without the sugary feel.
What you need:
1 ½ measures gin (about 55ml)
Juice of half a lemon
3 teaspoon of simple syrup (or two of plain caster sugar)
Soda water to top up
In a tall glass, combine lemon juice, sugar syrup (or sugar), and gin. Stir well to combine. Add ice and top with soda water. Garnish with a slice of lemon.
The Moscow Mule
Another summery drink, even better when served in the classic ice cold copper mule mug, but a glass will work perfectly too.
What you need:
1 ½ measures vodka (approx. 55ml)
Juice of half a lime
Ginger ale to top up
In copper jug (or tall glass) mix vodka with lime juice, add ice and top with cold ginger ale.
The Whiskey Sour
A classic whiskey cocktail, brightened with lemon juice with a foamy top.
What you need:
1 ½ measures Irish whiskey (approx. 55ml)
30ml lemon juice
3 teaspoons sugar syrup
½ an egg white
Add all ingredients to a shaker (or a jam jar), shake until combined and foamy. Strain into a glass and garnish with a slice of orange or an orange peel. Sip, enjoy.
The Pina Colada
If anything screams summer, it’s the Pina Colada. Creamy, sweet and laced with rum, it’s the perfect summer drink.
What you need:
120ml pineapple juice
A handful of pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen - optional)
1 ½ measures (around 55ml) white or dark rum or (try 50/50)
60ml coconut milk or coconut cream
Squeeze of lime juice
Ice
Pineapple wedge to garnish
Add all ingredients to blender and blitz until smooth. Pour into a long glass and garnish with pineapple wedge.
