Vintage Cellars

Stash Your Passport: These Cocktails Are Worth Staying Home For

Winter is setting in, which means it’s almost time for the annual exodus to sun-soaked Northern Hemisphere locales. 


But if a big trip isn’t on your radar this year, your taste buds can still do some travelling with the help of a delicious cocktail. Here, we round up three clever cocktails bound to induce wanderlust and fend off travel envy. Our only advice? Stay off Instagram.

The Matcha Highball

Sipping on a Matcha Highball feels like a quick trip to Tokyo. Smooth Japanese whisky delivers a buzz – like the one you get walking Ginza’s backstreets – while the matcha adds a touch of tea ceremony charm. Teleport to Tokyo with every sip, and soak up the capital of cool’s culture and energy.

Ingredients (serves 1):
60mL Suntory Toki Blended Japanese Whisky
15mL freshly squeezed lemon juice
15mL honey syrup
1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
120mL chilled soda water
1 lemon wheel, for garnish

Method:
1. Mix matcha powder with whisky & lemon juice.

2. Add ice, matcha mix and honey syrup into a cocktail shaker. Shake well.

3. Pour into an ice-filled glass and top with soda water.

4. Garnish with lemon and enjoy!

Mezcalita Verde With Tajín Rim

Escape to the tranquil shores of Bacalar (it’s Tulum’s cooler and quieter little sister) with this coriander-infused cocktail. The cocktail’s smoky, woody mezcal and vibrant green hue conjure images of lush rainforest, palm-fringed beaches and sparkling lagoons, while the spicy kick echoes the lively spirit of the town. 

Ingredients (serves 1):
60mL Montelobos Espadin Mezcal 
30mL freshly squeezed lime juice
60mL Crawley’s Agave Syrup Bottle
Handful of fresh coriander, plus extra for garnish
2 jalapeños, sliced
Tajín seasoning for rim
Ice 

Method:
1. Swipe a lime wedge around the rim of a glass before rolling the outer edge of the glass gently in the Tajín seasoning.

2. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the coriander and jalapeño slices before adding in the mezcal, lime juice, and agave syrup to the shaker.

3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 30 seconds.

4. Strain the cocktail into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with fresh coriander, jalapeños and lime. Enjoy!

Pistachio Praline Affogato

Savouring an Affogato infused with sweet, hazelnutty Frangelico is like a sensory journey to one of Florence’s timeless piazzas. The harmonious blend of espresso and hazelnut liqueur encapsulates the essence of Italian indulgence. With each velvety sip, you’re whisked away to the Renaissance City, immersed in its rich art, culture, and culinary delights.

Ingredients (serves 1):
30mL espresso coffee
15mL Frangelico Hazelnut Liqueur
1 scoop of Pistachio Praline Gelato

Method:
1. Brew a shot of espresso coffee using your preferred method and allow it to cool slightly.

2. Place a scoop of Pistachio Praline gelato into a serving glass or cup and pour the Frangelico over the gelato, followed by the warm espresso.

3. Garnish with shaved chocolate. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination.