NFL
By: Sofia Wan
Summer, Summer, Summertime…Where the Cocktailing is Easy!
Ah, Summertime. Backyard barbecues, birthday parties and trips to the beach are on your calendar. Whether you are hosting these gatherings or attending with something to share, you want to offer the perfect cocktail to ensure the right mood is set and that everyone will enjoy what you have created.
When thinking about a cocktail to share with your friends and family, I like to keep it simple. While you should have a variety of options to serve your guests, having one cocktail ready to go in a large batch will save you time and perhaps help all those indecisive friends that never know what they want to drink.
Being from the south, I have always been a fan of sweet iced tea. This mixer goes with a few spirits that can be created in a large batch-punch style. Simply add 1.5-2 ounces of vodka or whiskey for every 8-12 ounces of sweet iced tea and garnish with a lemon wedge or twist (if you’re feeling fancy). You can always adjust the amount of spirit or mixer per you and your guest’s tastes.
If you want to impress and have the time to make cocktails by hand (or hire someone), I would recommend using fresh watermelon in a handcrafted concoction. This juicy mixer is best used when it is fully ripened, can add natural sugars to balance out the cocktail and be found any time during summer. I know what you’re thinking, “It’s gonna be pink”; but, this is the drink that will let your guests reminisce over this quintessential summer ingredient.
- Muddle 2-3 watermelon cubes
- Add 1.5 oz Gin
- Add 1 oz elderflower liqueur
- Add a splash of lemon juice
- Add ice and shake
- Double strain over fresh ice in a rocks/old fashioned glass
- Garnish with a small piece of watermelon
Whichever cocktail you choose to share with your friends and family, they will appreciate the time and effort you put into your product. As long as you use fresh ingredients and make them with love, you can’t go wrong. Until next month, keep the cocktails fresh and drink responsibly. You can always contact me via email with questions and comments at sofia@nutsandbolts.com or @sofresha on Instagram.
