Creative Garnishing

Exotic Paper Parasols

Dating back to the 11th century, umbrellas have been used in the Orient for various reasons. Initially, they were not used as protection from the rain, but to shield against the sun’s rays and to ward off evil spirits. In cocktails they provide shade keeping the ice cubes chilled. Maybe it’s time to re-think this playful garnish and embrace decorative parasols as exquisite additions to your cocktail.

FUN FACT

It was Jonas Hanway (1712-1786), English traveler and philanthropist, who popularized the use of the umbrella in his cocktails to prevent droplets from his wife’s perfume atomizer from falling into his gin.

The Unusual Umbrella Emporium helped the cocktail umbrella reclaim its rightful place among a great bartender’s supplies. The Emporium showcased an array of delightfully peculiar umbrellas alongside a selection of cocktails and cocktail umbrellas designed by the top bartenders in the UK. All umbrellas were constructed by Rick Bosman, of Bosman productions. Hendrick’s Gin Brand Ambassador, Duncan Mc Rae invited London bartenders to create most unusual cocktail umbrella designs and cocktails for showcasing in the Emporium.

THE HENDRICKS GIN CUCUMBRELLA CUP COMPETITION

The winner was Aaron Jones & Pierre Dos Santos with The Balloon Umbrella

Marian Beke created The Bartool Umbrella

Created by Alex Kratena, The Artesian Umbrella