World Cocktail Day is being celebrated today. Cocktails can be enjoyed any time of the year, even in Winter. It’s been reported that the first time the word “cocktail” was defined in print was back in 1806 by a New York tabloid. Today, more than 200 years later, cocktails are still being enjoyed around the world.
“For me, there’s something about a winter evening that feels especially comforting,” says Julius.
World Cocktail Day is celebrated today
With the spotlight on cocktails, the food and beverage creative, Aston Julius at the Radisson Red V&A Waterfront, has shared a new take on a classic spritz that’s designed for easy sipping and cold-weather comfort. He says cocktails are about special moments.
Julius added, “The air turns crisp, the light softens, and time seems to pause just long enough to savour what’s in your glass.”
The quiet hour before sunset. A gathering with friends. A small ritual to mark the end of a long day. Julius added that that’s exactly what makes the Golden Garden Spritz (winter edition) so appealing.
The spotlight on cocktails
According to him. World Cocktail Day marks the anniversary of the first published definition of the word “cocktail” in a New York tabloid back in 1806. He says it was described as “a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water and bitters,” as well as a combination that has since evolved into an entire culture of creative mixology.
He says, “That’s what inspired this cocktail. It’s not extravagant, it’s a gentle way to bring joy to the colder season.”
To mark the day, Aston Julius, food and beverage creative at Radisson Red Waterfront, has shared his cosy winter edition of the perfect cocktail to toast the occasion.
The ideal excuse to pause, pour and play with the season’s flavours
The Golden Garden Spritz keeps things simple. No shaking, no bar kit required. Just fresh ingredients, a tall glass and a little time to enjoy the moment.
Golden Garden Spritz (winter edition) recipe:
Ingredients:
- 60 ml vodka or gin
- 30 ml fresh lemon juice (lime juice also works)
- 15 ml honey syrup (see recipe below)
- 2 to 3 slices of fresh strawberries
- A few torn mint leaves
- Your choice of:
- Soda water (light and classic)
- Tonic water (bittersweet, great with gin)
- Ginger beer (warming and spicy)
- Lemonade or Sprite (extra citrusy)
- Honey Syrup. Mix equal parts honey and hot water. Stir until fully combined. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Method
- In a tall glass, add the strawberries and mint.
- Gently muddle with a spoon to release the flavour.
- Add your spirit of choice, lemon juice and honey syrup.
- Stir with ice.
- Top with your preferred fizzy mixer.
- Garnish with mint or an extra slice of strawberry if you like.
Flexible and flavourful
Julius says this cocktail is designed to be as flexible as it is flavourful. if you want it fruitier, add extra berries or a splash of juice. What about more tart, then increase the citrus. At the same time, if you like a drink sweeter, you can add more syrup or try maple suryp for richness. But he says the Golden Garden Spritz is a starting point and the rest is up to you.
Julius concluded, “World Cocktail Day reminds us of the long tradition behind our favourite drinks. But this year, enjoy the moment in a more relaxed way. No fancy tools, no fuss. Just the right flavours for the season, made your way.”
He added, there’s no perfect way to enjoy the drink. You can take it outdoors for a patio sunset, sip it fireside, or pour a round at your next dinner with friends.
