When the work day is finished and there is still sun in the sky, or indeed the Barbeque is on and the friends are coming round., our thoughts turn to having a drink or two. Now we can always chill a bottle of Rosé, or break out the G&T, but what about a cocktail or two or something even more adventurous? Let the PG team help you decide on your Summer Time Tipple.
Pimms
The famous British cocktail that dates from the Victorian times. James Pimm’s invention of the No.1 Cup is frequently found in hands of people attending Wimbledon and the Chelsea Flower Show. It is a Gin based spirit and infused with spices and citrus.
It is best made in jugs as one is generally never enough.
Mix One (1) Part Pimms to Three (3) parts Pimms over ice, to this add Mint Leaves, thin slices of Cucumber, Apple, Orange, Lemon and finally Strawberries. Stir and serve.
The PG says – The Classic Gentleman’s Choice
Mojito
The classic Mojito, which translates as “something a little wet”, comes from the island of delights that is Cuba. The exact origins are unknown and disputed, but our favourite is that it was discovered by Sir Francis Drake on a trip to the island in the 16th Century. Whatever the origin, it is now a staple of any cocktail bar around the world.
Take a Highball Glass and add lime juice (about ½ lime), most people add a wedge as well , sugar (2 teaspoons) and mint leaves (about 10) and these are ‘muddled’ together. Which means gently mashed. Add the rum (about 2 fingers or to taste) and then gently stir. Add Ice and top with Sparkling Water or Club Soda. Garnish with Mint & Lime.
The PG says – The Stylish Gentleman’s Choice
Dark & Stormy
Hailing from the beautiful Island of Bermuda, this classic cocktail also has its origins with the British Navy, but was adopted as the national cocktail of Bermuda thanks to the island’s very delicious Gosling Rum. It is an exceptionally simple drink yet a very sophisticated taste.
Take a Highball glass, fill the glass with ice, pour in 2 to 3 fingers of Dark Rum, preferably Gosling’s Black Seal, top with Ginger Beer and garnish with Lime. No true Bermudan would add Lime Juice, but it is frequently done.
It is a strong but refreshing drink.
The PG says – The Sophisticated Gentleman’s Choice
Sangria
The legendary drink of Spain and Portugal, this wine punch can date its origins back to Roman times as it was safer than drinking water. It’s name derives from Blood, as you would imagine from its colour. It has literally hundreds of variations and ingredients that can be used as the base or additions. We at the PG have gone for a Classic version, with a small twist.
Once again, it is best made in a large jug as it is moreish.
Take a bottle of good but not expensive Spanish Red Wine, pour this into the jug. Add in Sliced Fruit, which can be seasonal but always include a whole sliced Orange. Add in a large shot of Brandy and a Large Shot of Madeira or Marsala wine. Cover and let this rest in a fridge for at least an hour. When you are ready to serve, take it out of the fridge, add ice. Our final twist: rather than clear lemonade, fill it with San Pellegrino Aranciata, it really makes it zing.
The PG says – The Traditional Gentleman’s Choice
Blueberry Fizz
One of our own little concoctions here at the PGHQ Bar, we were dabbling with various ingredients and Uncle Henry, who is always a dab hand at the bar, whisked up this little beauty.
Take a Highball Glass, take a handful of Blueberries, the juice of 1 lime, a few mint leaves and muddle in the glass. Pour in 2 or 3 fingers of gin (Sloe Gin also works a treat), add ice, then top up with a mix of Blueberry Juice and Soda Water.
Uncle Henry described it as summer in a glass.
The PG says – The Adventurous Gentleman’s Choice
We hope that we have given some food for thought or should we say drink for thought. Drink sensibly and enjoy!
