MAKE-BELIEVE YOU’RE AWAY ON HOLIDAY THROUGH THE POWER OF A CAREFULLY SELECTED BEVERAGE

VERMOUTH AND SODA

This year’s Aperol Spritz or

Porto Tónico, ie low alcohol, easy-drinking, refreshing and difficult to mess up. This fortified wine is enjoying a comeback so

hop on the bandwagon early, boosting a dry white varietal with soda and a slice of citrus over ice. Our recommended Chazalettes ceased production in the Seventies, but is back with a bang in time for spring. Chazalettes & Co Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry

(18% ABV), £23/75cl; masterofmalt.com

RAKI

A similar flavour to ouzo, but less sweet and bracing, especially as this Turkish spirit is enjoyed with water (in a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio). Dilution brings out the aniseed flavour and turns the clear liquid cloudy — nothing like a party trick to slip guests into holiday mode.

Yeni Raki Ala (47% ABV), £35/70cl; masterofmalt.com

ORANGINA

From a glass bottle. Over ice. Done. (0% ABV), £10/dozen 25cl; thomasridley.co.uk

KIR ROYALE

Why have plain fizz when you could create a grown-up Ribena, as enjoyed in France with a sweetening Crème de Cassis spike to your pre-prandial? Top one part blackcurrant liqueur with three parts sparkling wine (use bubbly of the moment Crémant; made by the same

method as Champagne but costing far less). Berry Bros & Rudd Crémant de Limoux by Antech (12% ABV), £10/75cl; bbr.com. Gabriel Boudier Crème

de Cassis de Dijon (20% ABV), £10/50cl;

sainsburys.co.uk