Top London Bartender’s Favorite Cocktails: Recipes and Tips

Vonbon Hill

2 min read

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23-11-2024

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London. The city that never sleeps, a global hub of culture, finance, and, of course, exquisite cocktails. We sat down with renowned London bartender, Alex Ramsey (name changed for privacy), to uncover his favourite concoctions and the secrets to crafting them perfectly. With years of experience behind the stick in some of the city's most prestigious establishments, Alex's insights are invaluable for both seasoned mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Alex's Top Three: A Masterclass in Mixology

Alex shared three of his signature cocktails, emphasizing the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients and precise technique.

1. The Rosemary Grapefruit Gimlet

This refreshing twist on a classic is perfect for a warm summer evening. The rosemary adds an unexpected herbal note that beautifully complements the tart grapefruit.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Gin (Alex recommends a London Dry style)
• 1 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• ¾ oz Lime Juice
• ½ oz Simple Syrup
• 2 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary

Instructions:

1. Muddle one rosemary sprig gently in a shaker.
2. Add gin, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with the remaining rosemary sprig.

Alex's Tip: "Don't over-muddle the rosemary; you want to release the aroma, not bruise the leaves."

2. The Spiced Pear Old Fashioned

A sophisticated and warming cocktail perfect for colder months. The spiced pear syrup adds depth and complexity to the classic Old Fashioned.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Bourbon (Alex's choice is a high-rye bourbon)
• ¾ oz Spiced Pear Syrup (recipe below)
• 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
• Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In an old-fashioned glass, muddle the spiced pear syrup with the bitters.
2. Add bourbon and a large ice cube.
3. Stir gently for 30 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink and drop it in.

Spiced Pear Syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 star anise
• 4 cloves

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer until pears are soft and the syrup has thickened slightly (approximately 15 minutes). Strain and cool completely.

Alex's Tip: "The quality of your bourbon greatly impacts the final flavour. Choose a bottle you truly enjoy."

3. The Cucumber Mint Cooler

A light and revitalizing cocktail ideal for any occasion. The cucumber and mint create a beautifully refreshing combination.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ oz Vodka
• ¾ oz Fresh Lime Juice
• ½ oz Simple Syrup
• 4 Cucumber slices
• 6 Mint leaves
• Soda water, to top

Instructions:

1. Muddle cucumber and mint gently in a shaker.
2. Add vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Fill shaker with ice and shake well.
4. Double strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water.
6. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon.

Alex's Tip: "Use high-quality vodka and fresh, crisp cucumber for the best results."

Beyond the Recipe: Mastering the Craft

Alex emphasized the importance of practicing consistently, experimenting with different ingredients, and paying close attention to detail. He encourages aspiring bartenders to not be afraid to try new things and to find their own unique style. “The best cocktails are made with passion and precision,” he concluded. And with these recipes and tips, you can start your journey to creating your own London-worthy masterpieces.