WThis is a home-style version of a drink from the seasonal cocktail list. It's a large-volume prepared mix which is packed full of flavours of the festive period, making it ideal for hosting a celebration. Reserve the remaining syrup for brunch beverages, puddings, or for another batch of bikinis.
The Bikini Cocktail
Yields 10 servings
Ingredients for the Clementine Cordial (produces 750ml)
300ml recently pressed clementine juice
200ml newly squeezed lemon juice
500g fine sugar
For the Drink (makes 850ml, to serve 10)
400ml decent vodka
100ml London dry gin
150ml peach-flavored liqueur
200ml citrus syrup (from the recipe above)
Whole cranberries, to garnish
Mandarin essential oil, as a final touch
Instructions
Making the Citrus Syrup: Place all the components inside a pot, bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve. Next, turn off the stove allowing it to cool down fully. Decant into a sterilised bottle, seal and refrigerate it in the fridge, where it will keep for up to four weeks.
For the Premix: Mix every liquid ingredients into one sizeable container, let it rest for an hour, then strain best through a fine cloth, to ensure it's perfectly clear.
When ready to serve: Add 85ml of the batch mix into a cocktail shaker packed with ice, and stir gently for about 60 seconds to chill. Strain into a chilled martini glass or a similar vessel, garnish with some cranberries and complete it using a quick spritz with the mandarin essence above the glass.
