From fresh takes on the classics to wild new creations you must taste to believe, the cocktail world is buzzing with bold ideas.
Whether you’re hosting a spring soirée, mixing up something special for date night or just love being ahead of the trend curve, now’s the perfect time to shake, stir and sip your way into the hottest cocktail styles of the season.
Spice it up!
Bartenders are adding a fiery twist to old favourites with ingredients like chilli, ginger and jalapeño for cocktails that pack a punch.
Spicy Paloma
Ingredients: 50ml tequila; 60ml grapefruit juice; 10ml lime juice; Dash of agave syrup; Pinch of chilli flakes or a slice of jalapeño; Soda water; Salt for the rim (optional)
Method: Rim a glass with salt, if desired. Shake tequila, grapefruit juice, lime, agave and chilli with ice. Pour over fresh ice and top with soda water. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and chilli slice.
Herbaceous and fresh
Say goodbye to overly sweet mixers and hello to garden-fresh flavour. Cocktails infused with herbs like basil, rosemary and thyme are turning heads – and tantalising taste buds.
Basil & Cucumber Gin Smash
Ingredients: 50ml gin; Fresh cucumber slices; 6 to 8 fresh basil leaves; 20ml simple syrup; 15ml fresh lime juice; Ice
Method: Muddle the cucumber and basil with lime juice and syrup in a shaker. Add gin and ice, shake well, and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon and a basil sprig.
Dessert-inspired cocktails
Sweet tooth? You’ll love this. Dessert-style cocktails are having a moment – think boozy milkshakes, espresso martinis and creamy after-dinner sips.
Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
Ingredients: 30ml vodka; 30ml fresh espresso; 20ml Kahlúa or coffee liqueur; 10ml salted caramel syrup; Ice; Coffee beans or a caramel drizzle to garnish
Method: Shake all ingredients with ice until frothy. Strain into a martini glass and garnish. Perfect after dinner (or instead of dessert!).
