Drinks that stand out will be the order of the day this summer, says Scott Morrison of Douglas Laing. Here he shares some hints on creating a stand-out summer drinks list, as well as a signature serve for lowland malt, The Epicurean.
Embrace seasonal flavours
Incorporate fresh, vibrant fruits into your cocktails to capture the essence of summer. Think zesty citrus, crisp apples and sweet peaches. Experiment with seasonal ingredients to create refreshing and Instagram-worthy drinks.
Creative ice cubes and garnishes
Elevate the visual appeal of your cocktails by using creative ice cubes and garnishes. Freeze edible flowers, fruit slices, or herbs into ice cubes for an aesthetically pleasing presentation. Experiment with unique garnishes like cucumber ribbons, citrus twists, or even edible glitter to make your cocktails stand out.
Signature summer cocktails
Develop a selection of signature cocktails that showcase your bar’s creativity and style. Consider incorporating local or seasonal ingredients to add a unique twist. Promote these cocktails through social media or chalkboard specials to generate customer excitement.
Interactive and DIY elements
Engage customers by offering interactive elements such as build-your-own cocktail stations or DIY garnish bars. Allow customers to customise their drinks with a variety of syrups, bitters, and garnishes to suit their taste. This not only enhances the customer experience but also encourages repeat visits as they explore different combinations.
Whisky Apple Fizz
Ingredients
• Cubed ice
• 3 dashes of bitters
• Apple slice
• 50ml The Epicurean Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky
• 150ml sparkling apple juice
Method
1. Fill a highball glass with cubed ice and add 3 dashes of bitters
2. Combine 50ml The Epicurean with 150ml sparkling apple juice
3. Garnish with apple slice
4. Stir and serve!
