Turn over a new leaf this autumn

Add a seasonal slant to serves to reap rewards, says Eden Mill

HOMEMADE cocktail attempts during lockdown are likely to have given consumers a renewed appreciation for professional mixology – meaning cocktails will remain high on consumers’ agendas in bars in the weeks ahead.

That’s the view of Chiara Kelly, head of marketing at Eden Mill, who said demand for cocktails in licensed premises is expected to remain high into autumn as many people will have gained a “brand new appreciation of the mix of ingredients and skill that goes into creating the perfect cocktail”.

“The COVID-19 shutdown may lead to customers being more open to trying new flavours and mixes when it comes to their cocktail choices within the on-trade environment,” said Kelly.

“With many people creating experimental ‘quarantinis’ during lockdown, customers may now be more aware of how many fun and unique flavour combinations you can make with different spirits.

“With some of the more intricate classic cocktails potentially being difficult to perfect from home, these may be more in-demand as these may have been lacking for some customers during lockdown.

As many have been ‘mixologing’ from home like never before, we believe customers may have a brand new appreciation for on-trade cocktails. Customers may have a brand new appreciation of the mix of ingredients and skill that goes into creating the perfect cocktail.”

Eden Mill is promoting a number of autumnal cocktails, including:

Oak Gin Negroni

Stir equal parts (recommended 30ml of each) Eden Mill Oak Gin, sweet vermouth and Campari in a mixing jug with ice. Strain this liquid into a short glass over ice and garnish with a twist of orange.

“One of Eden Mill’s favourite autumn serves is our twist on a classic Negroni recipe by using our Oak Gin,” said Kelly. “Eden Mill’s premium Oak Gin adds a rich oak spice to this classic gin cocktail.”

Spicy Espresso Martini

Add 25ml Eden Mill Chocolate and Chili Gin, 25ml Kahlua, 12.5ml sugar syrup and 50ml espresso into a shaker with ice and shake until cold and frothy. Strain into a chilled Martini glass and garnish with grated dark chocolate.

“Our limited edition Chocolate and Chilli Gin is a sweet chocolate pudding-like flavour with a fiery chilli kick,” said Kelly.

“The spicy, chocolatey taste notes from this gin works perfectly within an Espresso Martini to warm you up during those rainy autumn nights.”