3 Cocktails You Should Learn To Make For Summer 2024

When most people see the name Brewdog they naturally think of beer. After all, they were well ahead of the craft beer curve and rose rapidly to become the UK’s largest independent brewery after being founded in 2007. But almost a decade later, Scotland’s first carbon negative distillery was built next to their brewery in the Highland town of Ellon, just a few miles north of Aberdeen.

The aim was simple: to make charismatic spirits from scratch and bring people a true grain-to-glass experience. Gin and vodka were first to be launched in 2017, followed by rum shortly afterwards. Whisky will be launching soon, including one of the first rye whiskies to be produced by a Scottish distillery in the modern era. This remains tucked away in a Highland warehouse, maturing slowly and awaiting its release.

Brewdog’s range offers diversity and versatility. Each of the categories bottled to date – gin, spiced rum and vodka – have classic and flavour variants alike to cater for a spectrum of tastes. So, whether it is the refreshingly quirky Cactus & Lime Gin, the rich and comforting Cherry & Dark Chocolate Rum or the crisp and tangy Rhubarb & Lemon Vodka there really is something for everyone.

It is this diversity that makes Brewdog’s spirits perfect for any occasion. This is especially true for the forthcoming warmer weather and longer evenings of late-spring and summer. Having a Platinum Jubilee gathering? A garden party or barbecue with family and friends? Or need a bottle to pop in your picnic basket for a trip to the beach? Brewdog Spirits have it covered.

For any of these scenarios you need just two things: minimal and easy-to-find ingredients, and simple refreshing cocktail recipes. Time is of the essence, especially if you are catering for lots of people. Here we have three fabulous drinks that will fill your party with summer vibes and impress those attending your gathering.

The Gin Mule

This take on the classic vodka cocktail offers more complexity thanks to the botanical characteristics coming from the gin. One that will be a real crowd-pleaser.

Pour two measures of Brewdog Lone Wolf Original Gin (made using Tuscan juniper and Scots pine, amongst other botanicals) and half a measure of fresh lime juice into a tall highball glass. Add ice cubes and then top up with ginger beer. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

For extra wow-factor add some bruised mint leaves (tip: just rub them strongly in your hands) and some runny honey to the glass before adding the gin and lime. Stir well before adding the ice and ginger beer for a mojito-style drink. Delicious and refreshing.

The Spiced Rum Watermelon Cooler

The depth of flavour coming from the spiced rum is complemented superbly by the juicy sweet watermelon. Spiced rum is the hot spirit for summer 2022.

For this you will need 1.5 measures of Brewdog 500 Cuts Spiced Rum and two measures of watermelon juice (tip: simply whizz up some fresh watermelon in a blender and strain off the juice so there is no pulp). Fill a tumbler with crushed ice and pour in the rum and melon juice. Top up with lime seltzer. Garnish with mint leaves and a small watermelon wedge.

Alternatively make up one large batch. Multiply each ingredient by the number of servings that you require and store in the fridge until ready. Pour out as people arrive for some added theatre. Bright, fresh and a perfect summer sipper.

The Pineapple Vodka Sunrise

A show-stopping twist on the two-tone classic tequila sunrise that is perfect for those long, warm summer evenings. This will quickly transport you to a beach somewhere.

Pour 1.5 measures of Brewdog Seven Day Passionfruit & Vanilla Vodka into a tumbler. Fill the glass halfway with pineapple juice. Tilt the glass and pour in some grenadine (if you do not have this, then cranberry cordial makes a cracking substitute) from the edge. The grenadine/cordial should sit on the bottom of the glass when set down. Add ice cubes and garnish with a slice of pineapple. Instant tropical delight.

Shop now at brewdog.com/uk/shop/spirits >

—

A paid partnership with Brewdog – words and opinion are Ape’s own