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…as chosen by four of Europe’s top mixologists
Cocktails go in and out of fashion like the 1980s so it’s difficult to keep up with the drinks of the moment. UltraVilla hears from four barmen at four of Europes’s top drinking establishments about their bestselling cocktails this summer…
MAREK MARUSINEC
Head Barman at Apero Restaurant and Bar, London
“Our top cocktail right now is the gin-based Light of Asia made with Sipsmith Gin, Brioett apple liquor, lime juice, cucumber sugar and topped with cucumber soda,” says Marek.
“Shaken and served in a long glass with a cucumber and mint garnish, it is one of the most refreshing options on the menu and is a great thirst quencher during the warm summer evenings.”
Apero Restaurant and Bar is nestled in the vaulted cellars of The Ampersand Hotel in London’s South Kensington, with a cocktail list inspired by the collection at the nearby V&A Museum. It’s the perfect spot for some late night drink sampling.
Number two is the tequila based Vintage Marmalade made from blood oranges, El Jimador Blanco tequila, Bold liquor and lime juice. Sounds lush.
And if you want to know what’s in a Winnie you’ll just have head down to the bar.
THE APERO SUMMER TOP THREE
- Light of Asia
- Vintage Marmalade
- Winnie
Where to stay in London: London Perfect has some of the finest properties available in the capital with a number in top London locale Kensington, so you’ll be able to walk home from the bar.
LUCA MENCACCI
Head Barman at Ocean Club Marbella, Spain
“Our top pick is the Strawberry Daiquiri shaken and served in a chilled cocktail glass with a lime garnish,” says Luca. “It’s an attractive summer drink and a real crowd pleaser. The sweetness of the strawberries combined with the sharpness of the lime makes it a winning combination and the best thing is, it’s simple to make so can easily be replicated at home”.
Located in the heart of Puerto Banús, Marbella, Ocean Club is a private beach side venue offering a seductive mix of modern style, verve and sophistication as well a programme of glamorous events
And it boasts one of the Med’s most elaborate cocktail menus, focusing on premium spirits and sustainably-grown fresh herbs and fruits with Luca heading the team. And this summer’s range of exquisite signature cocktails have been designed with world champion mixologist Mario Hofferer.
And if daiquiris aren’t your thing, the folks at the Ocean Club are going for the OC Breeze made with Belvedere vodka, Midori melon liqueur, fresh lime juice, elderflower syrup, fresh cranberries and Sprite. We’ll drink to that.
THE OC MARBELLA SUMMER TOP THREE
- Strawberry Daiquiri
- OC Breeze
- Mango Espuma Mojito
Where to stay in Southern Spain: Greatness provides some of the most gorgeous villas to be found in all of Spain, and they have the perfect Malaga property, close to Marbella, here.
ANDEAS PANAGIOTOKOPOULOS
Head Barman at Crystal Box, Crete, Greece
“Out top selling cocktail this summer and the one I’d recommend is the Melon Elderflower,” says head barman at Crystal Box in North-East Crete, Andeas. “It’s made with vodka, elderflower syrup, Midori liqueur, fresh lime juice, sugar syrup and Bergamot bitters, shaken over ice and served in a Collins glass.
“A dazzling cocktail ideal at a beach or pool as its fruit character blends perfectly with the floral essence leaving a summery aftertaste,” he adds. Don’t miss out on the Violet Punch either. Made from Tanqueray Ten gin, fresh violet syrup, fresh lemon juice, sour cherry juice and bergamot bitters it goes down a sweet and sour treat.
THE CRYSTAL BOX SUMMER TOP THREE
- Melon Elderflower
- Violet Punch
- The Cretan Bee
Where to stay in Crete: For some truly spectacular homes across Crete and the other Greek islands go here.
HÉCTOR DE LA ROSA
Head Barman at The Beach Club, Ibiza, Spain
“Our most popular cocktail right now is Chilli Mango Mojito,” says Héctor, who heads up the Beach Club bar at the Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza is located on Ibiza’s renowned Playa d’en Bossa known for its live DJs, spontaneous dance performances, a Mediterranean-inspired menu and a one-of-a-kind cocktail list.
“We make it from Brugal Rum, brown sugar, lime, spicy mango purée, mint and soda water, stirred and served over crushed ice in a long glass. The sweet nectar of the mango, combined with a hint of chilli and the aroma of the mint leaves creates a refreshing summer drink with an excellent kick, great for getting people in the mood to party!” says Hector.
“You could always try our Strawberry Ginger Daquiri too. Tequila Sauza, Domaine De Canton, lime juice, strawberry and sugar syrup it goes down a treat.”
THE BEACH CLUB SUMMER TOP THREE
- Chilli Mango Mojito
- Strawberry Ginger Daiquiri
- Mai Tai
Where to stay in Ibiza: For a stunning villa on a private landscaped estate in Es Cubells check out Unique Properties and Events
