WHere is a simplified take on a beverage from the seasonal drinks list. This is a large-volume premix which is loaded with the essence associated with Christmas time, rendering it excellent for a celebration. Save the extra syrup you can use for breakfast cocktails, desserts, or to mix additional servings of the drink.
The Bikini Cocktail
Yields 10 guests
For the Citrus Syrup (produces 750ml)
300ml fresh clementine juice
200ml fresh lemon juice
500g fine sugar
Ingredients for the Cocktail (yields 850ml, to serve 10)
400ml premium vodka
100ml classic gin
150ml peach schnapps
200ml clementine cordial (as made above)
A few cranberries, for garnish
Mandarin essential oil, as a final touch
Directions
Making the Syrup: Combine all the components in a pan, bring to a simmer, mixing so the sugar melts. Next, remove from the stove allowing it to cool fully. Decant into a clean bottle, close it and store chilled, it will last for up to a month.
Preparing the Premix: Pour all the spirits and syrup into one large bottle, allow it to infuse for one hour, then pass it through best through muslin, so it's completely strained.
To serve: Measure 85ml from the batch mix to a mixing glass filled with ice, and agitate carefully for a minute until cold. Strain into a chilled martini glass or equivalent, decorate with a few cranberries and finish with a quick spritz of the essential oil above the glass.
