As the season shifts, renowned mixologist Max Venning, director of Three Sheets bars in London, has unveiled six creative twists on classic cocktails, perfect for spring sipping. From alcohol-free options to bold, spicy concoctions, these recipes offer a fresh take on timeless favourites, captured in a stunning photograph by Phoebe Pearson for The Guardian.
From Nolo to Blotto: A Spring Cocktail Journey
Venning's selection ranges from a light, alcohol-free kir royal to robust, punchy pours, ensuring there's something for every palate this spring. Each recipe builds on traditional foundations with innovative ingredients and techniques, promising to elevate your home bartending skills.
Kir Royal: A Non-Alcoholic Fizz
Start with a refreshing alcohol-free option by pouring 15ml of blackcurrant cordial into a flute. Slowly top it with 125ml of Real drinks' sparkling sec, and garnish with a twist of orange zest for a bright, effervescent drink.
Coastal Americano: A Bitter-Sweet Refreshment
In a highball glass, add ice and pour over 20ml of FGTTN English bitter aperitif and 20ml of Vault coastal vermouth. Stir to chill and dilute, then top with blood orange soda and garnish with a slice of lemon for a coastal-inspired twist.
Paloma: A Spicy Citrus Kick
Combine 40ml of tequila, 10ml of lime juice, and two drops of hot sauce in a highball, stirring well. Add ice to the brim, stir for 10 seconds, then slowly top with grapefruit soda water. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of grapefruit for a zesty, spicy finish.
Dirty, Spicy Margarita: A Bold Twist
Garnish a rocks glass with salt or a salt and spice mix. In a shaker, mix 50ml of tequila, 25ml of lime juice, 15ml of agave syrup, and 10ml of Perello Picante olive brine, adding as much ice as fits. Shake hard for 30 seconds, then add ice to the garnished glass and strain the liquid over it. Garnish with an olive skewered onto an orange slice for a dirty, spicy take on the classic margarita.
Pickled Passion Fruit Iced Tea: An Infused Delight
Infuse 5g of earl grey tea with 350ml of vodka for 10 minutes, then strain and store. To serve, pour 35ml of the infused vodka, 10ml of passion fruit liqueur, and ½ tsp of cider vinegar into a highball over ice, stirring well. Top with cold soda water and garnish with a lemon slice for a unique, tangy iced tea.
Old Fashioned: A Buttery Honey Infusion
Melt 50g of salted butter in a small pan, then add 50g of honey and ½ tsp of Angostura bitters, stirring to dissolve. Pour 300ml of bourbon into a freezer-proof container, stir in the butter-honey mix, and freeze overnight. Crack a corner, pour the liquid through a fine sieve, add 100ml of mineral water, and store in the fridge. Serve over ice, garnished with orange zest, for a rich, smooth old fashioned.
These six cocktails showcase Venning's expertise in blending tradition with innovation, offering a versatile range for spring entertaining. Whether you're opting for a light, alcohol-free sip or a hearty, spirit-forward drink, these recipes are designed to impress and refresh.
