AT HOME WITH CHRISTIAN WILKINS

The model and Grey Goose ambassador shares his tips for the perfect night in

Q: Do you prefer a night in or a night out with friends?

Night in for sure! I love hosting at home, cooking for loved ones is always special to me. It’s so fun to make delicious cocktails and end the night watching old Kylie Minogue concerts while dancing around the living room. One of my favourite beverages to enjoy on a night in is an espresso martini – so simple to make and a great way to nish the evening when entertaining friends.

Q: What are some of your top tips for creating an unforgettable night with friends?

A solid playlist is a must! It sounds obvious, but the number of parties I’ve been to recently where after each song there’s a scramble for the next is simply too high. Curate a playlist that takes your guests on a journey. Whether you’re enjoying cocktail hour as guests arrive or getting ready to boogie on the dance oor, a carefully curated playlist is essential to set the mood.

I also think pairing cocktails with the food you are serving adds a special touch when entertaining. For instance, Grey Goose’s Le Grand Fizz is a refreshing arrival cocktail that is the perfect accompaniment to a charcuterie platter. Simply mix 35ml vodka, 15ml fresh lime juice and 25ml of St Germain in a large wine glass over ice, top with 60ml of soda water and garnish with a fresh lime wedge for a beverage that’s sure to impress.

Q: Do you have any tips for freeing yourself from behind the bar so you can enjoy the night, too?

To be honest, I love working the bar, so no! There are so many positives. You get to have conversations with all your guests, create delicious drinks for everyone and be the party’s favourite person to get the night going.

Q: What’s your favourite cocktail to serve friends on a night in?

If we’re elevating, I’m all about the cosmo right now – who doesn’t love a Sex and the City reference? But if it’s a casual moment, I love to just freeze some watermelon, throw it in the blender with some basil or mint and Grey Goose – and Bob’s your uncle!

Q: What are your top three favourite tracks (or playlists) to get people in the mood to party?

I’m loving everything ’00s/’10s right now. Black Eyed Peas are featuring predominantly, and anything with a great dance beat will do the trick! Q: If your guests don’t know each other, do you have a failsafe icebreaker to put people at ease?

Honestly, the show The White Lotus. Everyone has watched it and loved it, or heard about it and has something to say.