Introducing: The Best Gin for Summer Cocktails

If your weekend was full of outdoor gatherings, you likely noticed that you’re not alone. Sunbathers, picnickers and outdoor exercisers alike have flocked to local parks and green spaces to take advantage of better weather and the easing of restrictions that have held major cities in lockdown for the better part of the past few months.

Finally being able to meet up with friends old and new undeniably feels like a treat. What could be better?

Something about spring gatherings always feels slightly celebratory. In the build-up to summer, it’s hard not to want to raise a glass and cheers to longer days ahead. If you’ve had your fair share of prosecco, though, you may be on the hunt for a new drink to sustain the spring spirit. When rosé feels too predictable and beer just doesn’t cut it, why not try a gin?

I know what you’re thinking, “Gin isn’t refreshing enough to sip in the sun,” but hear me out. While you may typically associate gin with a complex, heavy flavour profile there are plenty of options out there that are perfectly reminiscent of summertime.

Citadelle Gin is one such example, striking the perfect balance of citrus and spice. One whiff of this gin, and you’ll be transported straight to the French Riviera. On the nose, a floral aroma and hints of citrus make the first introduction. The initial taste provides the instantly familiar bite of juniper, which mellows out to a deep liquorice flavour. While the juniper is reminiscent of the most classic London Dry gins, the unique complexity of Citadelle’s aromatic aftertaste puts it in a tier above the rest.

If you’re already a fan of gin, Citadelle surely won’t disappoint. It is arguably the best gin for summer cocktails. Australia’s gin boom over the past few years has given Australians a discerning taste for gin, and this is one that we think passes the test. It’s classic in all the right ways, while still bringing something new to the table. Whether you drink it with tonic, in a martini, or on the rocks, this is the perfect drop for summer.

A Citadelle Gin Cocktail to Whet Your Whistle

If you’re looking for a fun way to imbibe in Citadelle, our resident cocktail connoisseur has whipped up the perfect summer drink for you to try.

Naturally, the star ingredient of this fresh summer cocktail is Maison Ferrand’s Citadelle Gin. Cinzano Rosso, lemon juice and a dash of bitters take it to the next level, resulting in a sour-style cocktail perfect for enjoying on a balmy spring evening. Who said the at-home happy hour had to be boring?

Gin-zano Sour:

Ingredients

45 mL Citadelle Gin
15 mL Cinzano Rosso
30 mL Lemon juice
15 mL simple syrup
1 egg white
Angostura bitters
Lemon peel to garnish

Method

Add gin, Cinzano, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white, 2 dashes of bitters and 1 cube of ice into a cocktail shaker.
‘Dry Shake’ for around 15 seconds, or until the ice cube stops rattling
Open the cocktail shaker and fill with ice cubes and shake for another 15 seconds
Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice
Top with another dash of bitters and garnish with a twisted lemon peel