photos by Janis Jean Photography –
The hot, lazy days of August are the perfect time to relax outside with a refreshing cocktail. We all have our go-to’s, but this month, 10 Acres Bartender Alex Lavallee and 10 Acres Sommelier Adriano Cartuliares share their favourites with Seaside readers. They hope that this summer you’ll try their offerings and experiment with something new – join us for our Seaside Magazine Cocktail Shake Off!
Roseberry Julep or Princess Peach? Which will you try? Whatever way your tastes lie, we know Alex’s and Adriano’s takes on a gin cocktail will be a tasty addition to your summer days!
Alex Lavallee: The Roseberry Julep is a blend of a classic cocktail with a modern twist. It’s made with the best ingredients the Island has to offer, including locally-sourced strawberries and mint from 10 Acres’ very own farm. The tongue will start with the taste of the iced tea, taste the strawberries through the middle and finish with the mint. This is a refreshing summer cocktail for patio season!
Roseberry Julep
1 oz Empress Elderflower Rose Gin
1 oz elderflower liqueur
0.5 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
0.25 oz simple syrup (make your own with a 1:1 ratio of sugar dissolved in water)
pinch of mint – 4 or 5 leaves depending on size
1 tbsp pre-cut strawberries (or to taste)
4oz cold brew orange pekoe tea
Add iced tea, lemon juice, strawberries and simple syrup to cocktail shaker. Then add elderflower liquer, gin and mint. Shake with ice and then pour the contents into a glass.
Adriano Cartuliares: I love to make balanced cocktails with great acidity. This is a twist on a classic sparkling cocktail like the French 75. The floral and spicy aromas of the gin and fruity flavours of peach liqueur balance perfectly with the acidity of lemon juice. All of that combined with the nice texture of the sparkling rosé and a touch of “love” results in a perfect beverage.
The Princess Peach was inspired by a walk along the Sidney Waterfront followed by the Super Mario movie at Star Cinema with my baby boy.
Princess Peach
1 oz Empress Elderflower Rose Gin
1 oz peach liqueur
0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
2 oz Nichol Brut Rosé
Combine empress gin, peach liqueur and lemon juice. Shake on ice just to chill the liquid but not too much so you don’t dilute it. Strain into a flute and add the sparkling wine. Garnish with lemon peel.