Happy hour Mixologists share their winter cocktail faves

There might be a chill in the air, but cocktail season isn’t over says Jeanne Calitz, who scored some top winter-warmer recommendations from three SA mix masters

“OH THE

WEATHER OUTSIDE

IS FRIGHTFUL,

but the fire (in the glass) is so delightful…” We might be done with tropical fruit, spritzers and daiquiris for the moment, but there’s real pleasure in experimenting with the zest of citrus fruit, the zing of spice, the honeyed, oak notes of brandy and rum, and the juniper tones of a good gin.

The options are endless – so where do you start? We asked the experts.

James Meredith, manager, The Gin Bar, Cape Town

James is a fan of the negroni (pictured here), occasionally served with a slight twist. “People like a bit of spice when it gets colder, which is why we sometimes serve a spiced negroni as a special. Simply infuse vermouth with spices (cinnamon, cloves, star anise) overnight or for up to three days, then pour your negroni as usual.” theginbar.co.za

Kylan Pather, owner, The Lucky Shaker, Durban

Although the temperature doesn’t drop as drastically in Durban, Kylan recommends a rum-based drink for cooler days. “I love the warm flavours of a dark rum – chocolate or vanilla notes, with a hint of spice, are great.” He recommends the “dark and stormy” cocktail: dark rum with ginger syrup, fresh lime juice, a dash of bitters and soda water, garnished with fresh ginger. Arrrr, me hearties.

luckyshaker.com

Matt Suttner, owner and founder, Peachy Dine Bar, Johannesburg

Matt says the Ginger Snap, new on the menu, is the perfect cold-weather pick-me-up. “It brings a citrusy, spicy zing to the palate that’s absolutely delicious.” A little work is involved, but the result is worth it. Combine a shot of fresh ginger juice with fresh lime, good-quality gin, maple syrup and a drop of vanilla. Shake and pour over ice with soda water or ginger beer. And the kicker? Garnish with a whole fresh chilli. peachy.co.za