White vermouth provides a good baseline for spritz drinks, enlivening with botanical lift and gentle sweetness. This one works a treat in a wine glass splashed with prosecco and a dash of citrus shrub.
Industry experts predict the next trends in the drinks world
With the help of some of Australia’s best drinks experts, Mike Bennie looks into his crystal ball of trends and likes what he sees.
Harriet Leigh, Archie Rose Distillery, Sydney: Rinquinquin A La Peche, $45
An unusual peach liqueur, which Leigh says is best with a touch of gin, some lemon juice and a few fingers of soda water. The gentle sour-sweetness marries brilliantly with summery days. Track some down and get spritzing.
Olivia Evans, Paper Daisy, Cabarita, NSW: Brookie's Slow Gin, $65
Evans explains that this ‘slow’ gin uses Davidson plum instead of sloe berries, honouring local ingredients. It’s tart but gently sweet, and is ideal with a slice of orange and some mint, though drinking it on ice is a charm, too.
Matt Bax, Bar Americano, Melbourne: Amaro Americano, $55
Matt Bax is a drinks legend of huge creativity. These ‘Hometender’ cocktails are his vision splendid, offering take-home versions of his classic drinks. This Americano is killer.
Keryn Mae, Liberte, Albany, WA: Sunlight, Liquor Gums & Roses Sparkling Mead, $4
I predict a revival of the honey-based beverage. Sunlight Liquor has done a stellar job creating something fresh and virtuous in its glugability. Best served while partying in wading pools.
Mike Bennie, Sydney: Bruxo No.1 Espadin Joven Mescal, $63
So this might defy the whole ‘light, fresh, lower alcohol’ motif of modern drinking, but an excellent smoky, herbal mescal, on the rocks, sipped with consideration is a truly wonderful thing. Bruxo is doing great things.