A taste of Colombo Breeze and more

Introducing CE LA VI in Colombo last month, Din Hassan, head Mixologist had developed an array of modern tropical cocktails that were carefully curated to match the local palate. Adventurous by nature, Din conceptualizes cocktails that engage the senses both visually and texturally, with the focus primarily on a seamless harmony of flavours.

The bartenders of the Kings Bar and Lounge in Kingsbury, watched in amusement as Din manned his station with ease and a skill set that could only come after years of practice behind the counter.

“It’s never about how much of ingredients you put in, rather it’s about what ingredients you put inside,” he said adding that less is more.

To Din, an important aspect of a cocktail is its appearance. “We want that first impression or experience to have a wow factor,” he says. This theory is in fact proven by his next cocktail, the ‘Celavi Cosmopolitan.’

‘Colombo Breeze’ is what Din dreamed up just two days prior to the launch. He combines Cloudy Sake with Monin Elderflower syrup, lemongrass, star fruit, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and egg white. The result is a creamy texture perfect for a gloomy day.

During his stay in Colombo Din also took the chance to explore spicy food which inspired him to create the ‘Spiced Cup’, which true to its name delivers a beautiful combination of alcohol and spice.