There’s nothing like kick-starting your summer basking in the sun with a cocktail in one hand and a page-turner (or your partner’s hand) in the other. But if you’re a sucker for style and originality, you are perhaps fed up with your run-of-the-mill margaritas and Bloody Marys. Luckily, there’s no shortage of alternatives. Read on to discover some less conventional cocktails that won’t fail to surprise your guests!
Mint Julep: stylishly strong
Have you ever sipped a Mint Julep? This cocktail is legendary thanks to the Kentucky Derby, a world-famous horse race in Louisville, where the drink is consumed by the gallon. As its name suggests, mint plays the lead in this cocktail.
Here’s what you need
- Fresh mint
- 6 cl of Bourbon or Rye whiskey
- 4 cl of sugar water
How to make a perfect Mint Julep
- Grab a handful of fresh mint. Gently crush the leaves in a cocktail shaker and stir while pouring in 6 cl of Bourbon (or Rye whisky) and 4 cl of sugar water.
- Sugar water is very easy to make: simply mix two parts water and one part sugar to make your own syrupy substance.
- Pour the Mint Julep into a glass, fill it up with crushed ice and finish off with some mint leaves and a straw or two.
Tip: you get the best Mint Julep by infusing the bourbon with the fresh mint leaves a couple of hours before party time.
Frozé: no way, Jose? Think again!
Frozé, the latest cocktail hype in the US is a cheerful combination of rosé wine and crushed ice. In short, the best of both worlds: the perfect summer refreshment with a sparkling touch of rosé. What’s most fun is that there are endless variations to this cocktail! You can pimp your Frozé with syrup, for example, or add some Campari for that bitter twang.
Need more inspiration? Have a seat at our cocktail bar! One of Brussels’ hotspots, the Cinna-bar is the go-to place to enjoy those summer vibes.
