TIPS AND TRICKS FROM WORLD CLASS BARTENDERS

If gin is not your thing, there are many other options. When creating cocktails at home, there are a few important tips to remember to ensure your drinks look and taste World Class.

GARNISHING: Always buy fresh fruit on the day of your gathering. Citrus fruits like lemons and limes will dry up if kept in a fridge so store them at room temperature and only cut when needed. Use wedges of fruit and not slices as more of the oils from the skin of the fruit will infuse into your drink and add more flavour.

EQUIPMENT: Look at what kitchen utensils you have at home and use these to create World Class drinks. 1) Jam jar vs cocktail shaker 2) Wooden spoon vs cocktail mixing spoon 3) Egg cup vs spirit measure 4) Kitchen sieve vs hawthorn strainer 5) Potato peeler vs zester

GLASSWARE: Select the right glass for your serve. Tip: If you decide to serve a martini style drink and have martini glasses to hand, chill the glasses by putting them in your freezer for 10 minutes before serving your drink.

MEASURE: Always use the correct amount of alcohol – too much will overpower your drink. In a long-mixed drink such as a gin and tonic, you should use a standard serve, 35ml of gin, which is 1 unit. In a cocktail, you should never use more than 50ml of alcohol in total.

Always serve some festive water with each cocktail you serve. Get creative and garnish with winter berries or fresh herbs to add flavour and complement your serves. For more inspiration, follow Ketel One and Roe and Co on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.