Thirst Quenching Summer Bevvies

By Laura Hadland

As we greet longer days with (occasional) warm sunshine on our faces, our thoughts turn to entertaining friends and family. I think that serving cool drinks in the garden is one of the great joys in life. I’m always keen to make sure that everyone feels included, so here are my top picks of vibrant Spring and Summer drinks that are free of alcohol but laden with flavour.

Blurred Vines - Sharp

For many years I have been cynical about alcohol free wine, so this vibrant wine alternative from the experts at Three Spirit came as a pleasant surprise. Light, but intense in flavour it has been created by winemakers and plant scientists. This complex and lightly carbonated drink is great to serve with food or enjoyed on its own.

It has a fruity, floral taste. Notes of gooseberry, honeydew melon and crisp green apple are punctuated by a complex botanical bouquet. The addition of adaptogenic plants like California poppy and clary sage make this drink a true livener. I noticed a subtle tingle on my lips as I drank, and later spied the culprit - jalapeño makes an appearance on the formidably long ingredient list!

9/10

Cocktail Recipe - Sailor’s Blush

I have to recommend Fever-Tree’s latest selection of fruity tonics and sodas for truly seasonal flavours. They are fantastic on their own or as the base for a tasty cocktail. Mix up my bright Sailor’s Blush by the glass or in a pitcher to share. It is great simply stirred with ice and fresh raspberries.

Serves 4

200ml ANON Drinks Spiced Cane Spirit

500ml bottle of Fever-Tree Rhubarb & Raspberry Tonic Water

A squeeze of fresh lime juice to taste

William Bros. Brewing Co - Alien Form

AF IPA 0.5% ABV

William Bros. are one of the established breweries leading the way in the use of thiolised yeast to add an extra fruity punch to their alcohol-free beers. Alien Form is full of citrus, peach and tropical fruit flavours, and has a great pineedged bitterness. A delightful ale for easy sipping alongside zesty dressed salads or with spiced dishes like Thai green curry or koftas.

10/10

Vilarnau - Zero Alcohol Sparkling

Made by an established cava producer using traditional wine-making methods, these delightful bubbles will add a note of elegance to any gathering. Vilarnau’s cool, crisp and refreshing sparkling wine has good acidity and flavours of lemon, green apple and a subtle floral aroma. The small, fast-moving bubbles add vibrancy to the flavour. Serve straight from the fridge as an aperitif and enjoy!

8/10