Toast to the New Year: 3 Exquisite Seafood-Friendly Cocktails

As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, what better way to celebrate than with a lineup of sophisticated cocktails that not only elevate your festive spirit but also complement the delicate flavors of seafood? In this blog post, we'll explore three delightful concoctions, each featuring a unique combination of gin, champagne, and white wine. Let's raise our glasses and usher in the New Year with style and flavour!

1. Sea Breeze: Gin and Tonic with a Citrus Twist

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 4 oz tonic water
• 1 oz grapefruit juice
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint for garnish

Method:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour the gin and tonic water over the ice.
3. Add the grapefruit juice and gently stir.
4. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Pairing:

This refreshing Sea Breeze is a perfect match for light seafood dishes like prawn cocktails or oysters. The citrusy notes enhance the brininess of the seafood, creating a harmonious balance of flavours.

2. Cucumber Basil Fizz: Champagne Delight

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz elderflower liqueur
• 3 cucumber slices
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves
• Champagne or sparkling wine
• Ice cubes

Method:

1. Muddle the cucumber slices and basil leaves in a shaker.
2. Add gin and elderflower liqueur to the shaker with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass.
4. Top with Champagne or sparkling wine.

Pairing:

The Cucumber Basil Fizz pairs excellently with grilled fish or seafood ceviche. The effervescence of the champagne enhances the herbal and crisp flavours, creating a delightful contrast with the seafood's textures.

Peach and Thyme Spritz : White Wine Wonder

Ingredients:

• 4 oz white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1 oz peach nectar or juice
• 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 ratio of honey and hot water, cooled)
• Fresh thyme sprigs
• Peach slices for garnish
• Ice cubes

Method:

1. In a wine glass, combine white wine, peach nectar, and honey syrup over ice.
2. Stir gently.
3. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme and peach slices.

Pairing:

The Peach and Thyme Spritz complements the richness of seafood pasta or buttery lobster dishes. The peach and honey add a touch of sweetness, while the thyme provides an aromatic element, enhancing the overall dining experience.