Weekend brunch at independent casino sites is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an original cocktail. Each of the cocktails you see below is a reference to a classic that, for one reason or another, deserves its own place in the pantheon of outstanding cocktails.
Sparkling sangria
There is an infinite range of wines perfect for making sangria, but if you like bubbly, there is only one way: sparkling sangria. Choose your favourite bottle of sparkling wine at a reasonable price and decide on a fruity flavour profile. Depending on whether you opt for tropical fruit (such as mango, pineapple and kiwi), berries or whatever else you have in crispness, it doesn’t get any worse.
There’s no brighter way to accentuate the arrival of summer than with a pitcher of sangria on the terrace. Fresh fruit will keep you hydrated and give you something to snack on in the sweltering heat, while any juice or soda you add will tame the alcohol content of sparkling wine and spirits. Whether you opt for orange, apple or cranberry juice or double up on the bubbles with Sprite or ginger ale, you can’t go wrong. Tequila, rum, vodka and gin – you could try a different recipe every week of the summer and still not make the most of it.
Twentieth Century Cocktail
While the traditional dry martini and Tom Collins will always hold the crown when it comes to old-school era cocktails, there’s another drink that never gets the recognition it deserves: the ’20th century cocktail’. What at first glance seems like a reference to Corpse Reviver No. 2 is actually accentuated and complemented by deep flavours of cocoa cream, Lillet blanc and tart lemon juice, which somehow synergises and softens and balances all the flavours. If done right, this is a cocktail you can happily drink for the rest of your life.
Corpse Reviver Number 1
You may have heard of the Corpse Reviver (probably one of the coolest cocktail names of all time). The original Corpse Reviver #1 is a great cocktail that no one drinks, and honestly, it’s not clear why. A strong brandy base mixed with a little Calvados (apple brandy) and a little sweet vermouth, well shaken and strained into a standard cocktail glass, Corpse Reviver #1 is a simple, uncomplicated and damn good cocktail worthy of your attention.
Horse Neck
Known as the ‘Whisky cocktail for those who don’t like whisky’, it’s a refined and delicious blend of rye (or bourbon) ginger beer and a pinch of bitter, poured over ice in a highball glass. and garnished with a lime slice. It’s easy and simple, and it’s really just what you need for a hangover on a Sunday morning or a hot summer day. Heck, it’s even ‘spicy’ enough to feel good around a winter night fire. For this one, just make sure you don’t skimp on the ginger beer. How much you add will determine this light and invigorating cocktail.
French 75
The classic French 75 cocktail first appeared on the scene during the Prohibition era. Lemon juice and sugar (or simple syrup) are mixed with gin and ice, poured into a glass and poured over with champagne. Depending on who makes it, gin can be substituted for cognac (and of course any sparkling wine will do).
If you know a thing or two about guns, you’ll know the name of the cocktail, as it comes from the French 75mm light field gun that was widely used during World War II. According to Chilled Magazine, the gun symbol was an important emblem of optimism around the same time the drink became popular. And truth be told, after a couple of French 75 cocktails, you can definitely get a sense of optimism. Endless variations can be mixed to your liking, but whatever you choose, this heady, sour-sweet blend is sure to rock your summer events.
Lambrusco negroni
It’s easy to fall in love with a classic cocktail because it’s both familiar and original. Negroni is an interesting drink to experiment with (like a sbagliato), and the Lambrusco negroni is a great example of this. Campari is an acquired taste for many people, given its inherent bitterness. And when combined with gin and vermouth, it can be a lot, especially if you’re looking for a refreshing sip in your backyard.
That’s why Lambrusco negroni is perfect. It retains the vibrant colour of this drink while making it more delicate, fruity, potentially sweeter and with less alcohol. Make it easy by replacing Campari with your choice of Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine from Italy that comes in styles ranging from sweet to very dry. Complement the volume with gin and vermouth, add orange zest as a garnish and this lighter summer version is ready for the pool.