Bottoms Up!

Join me in raising a glass to the launch of the new, updated version of Miniature Feasts – Available to download now.

Not sure what you fancy to drink? No problem – the 2014 version includes a whole new chapter on drinks. Some with alcohol and some without so you really have no excuse.

After a period of dedicated cocktail testing ( It’s important to be thorough in these matters I find) I eventually narrowed down my favourites to a more concise list with something to suit all tastes.

Here’s a sneak preview of what you can expect  –

French 75

 This cocktail was created in 1915 at Harry New York Bar in Paris. There are various stories surrounding the name but my favourite is that it packs such a punch the barman; Harry McElhone claimed it was like being felled by French 75mm field gun!

It’s not quite that strong but you do only need one to get the party started.

5oz Fresh lemon juice

5oz Simple syrup

1oz Dry London gin

3oz Champagne

Put the lemon juice, simple syrup and gin and plenty of ice into a cocktail shaker and shake well.

Pour into a Champagne flute and top up with chilled Champagne

Chai Blossom (Makes enough for 4 glasses)

This is a delicious cocktail that manages to remain alcohol free but not taste like a children’s drink (Although some kids love it).

2 Chai teabags

½ Cup sugar

½ Cup fresh lime juice

12oz / 350 ml Club soda

4 whole star anise pods

4 lemon twists

Combine 1 cup of boiling water with the teabags and sugar and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Strain into a bowl and allow to chill completely.

Fill a glass jug 1/3 full of ice and add the chai syrup and lime juice. Stir well. To serve put some ice, a lemon twist and a star anise pod into four glasses and pour over the Chai Blossom.