Cucumber, mint and basil gin and tonic.invizbk/iStockPhoto / Getty Images
When the sun is beaming down, my attention turns to mixed drinks that are refreshing and contribute to a relaxing mood. I’m thinking about the bitter bite of a gin and tonic, the sweet and sour character of a caipirinha and other drinks that require minimal time and minimal ingredients. Here are three new and current releases spirits that have stood out in recent tastings that are tailor-made for innovative and classic summer cocktails.
Bombay SunsetSupplied
Bombay Sunset (United Kingdom), $35.95
This special edition London dry gin features Bombay’s signature zesty orange and juniper notes with warm and spicy accents from the cardamom, turmeric and grains of paradise (an aromatic spice from West Africa) included in the mix of botanicals. The balanced and flavourful character works nicely mixed with tonic or in a French 75. Available at the above price in Ontario, $33.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta, $31.49 in Manitoba, $40.49 in New Brunswick, $34.99 in Nova Scotia.
Leblon CachacaSupplied
Leblon Cachaca (Brazil), $39.80
Cachaca is a distilled spirit made in Brazil from sugar cane juice that has risen to global prominence thanks to the success of the caipirinha cocktail. Its style varies depending on its production and aging methods, from unaged versions to ones matured in different types of oak. Leblon Cachaca is aged in French oak casks for six months, which adds richness to the mix of tropical fruit, brown sugar and grassy flavours. Available at the above price in Ontario, various prices in Alberta, $38.99 in Saskatchewan, $39.99 in Manitoba, $39.25 in Quebec, $49.98 in Nova Scotia, $45.99 in Prince Edward Island.
Nemiroff VodkaSupplied
Nemiroff Vodka (Ukraine), $31.95
Ukrainian vodka brand Nemiroff is a recent addition to liquor store shelves across the country. The brand’s website explains this grain-based vodka undergoes 11 stages of filtration to achieve its crisp, neutral character. There’s peppery, lemon zest and some flinty notes that are fitting for a vodka martini, Moscow Mule or a Vodka Gimlet. Available at the above price in Ontario, $31.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta, $29.99 in Manitoba.