We present a home-style interpretation of a drink featured on a new drinks list. It's a large-volume prepared mix that's loaded full of essence of a Christmas time, rendering it ideal for hosting a celebration. Reserve the remaining syrup for brunch beverages, desserts, or to make more rounds of the drink.
The Bikini Cocktail
Yields 10 people
For the Citrus Syrup (produces 750ml)
300ml recently pressed clementine juice
200ml fresh lemon juice
500g caster sugar
For the Premix (produces 850ml, serving 10)
400ml premium vodka
100ml classic gin
150ml peach liqueur
200ml clementine cordial (as made above)
Whole cranberries, for garnish
Mandarin essential oil, to finish
Method
To prepare the Citrus Syrup: Combine every ingredients into a pan, heat until it reaches a light boil, agitating so the sugar melts. Then, turn off the heat and leave to cool down fully. Transfer into a sealable bottle, cap it and refrigerate it in the fridge, it will last for around four weeks.
For the Premix: Combine the specified liquid ingredients into a sizeable container, allow it to infuse for an hour, then strain , ideally through cheesecloth, making it completely strained.
When ready to serve: Add 85ml from the batch mix to a mixing glass containing ice, and agitate gently for one minute to cool it down. Pour into an frosted cocktail glass or equivalent, garnish with the cranberries adding the final touch using a brief mist with the mandarin essence above the glass.