The Easiest and Most Sophisticated Cocktails to Make for Your Dinner Party This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to host a dinner party, and nothing sets the tone quite like a well-crafted cocktail. At Parson’s Nose, we believe that a great cocktail can elevate any gathering, adding a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavour to your evening. Here are some of the easiest and most sophisticated cocktails to impress your guests at your summer dinner party.

1. Classic Pimm's Cup

No British summer is complete without a Pimm's Cup. This refreshing cocktail is a crowd-pleaser and incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 50ml Pimm's No.1.
• Lemonade.
• Fresh mint leaves.
• Sliced cucumber, orange, and strawberries.

Method:

1. Fill a glass with ice and add the Pimm's.
2. Top with lemonade.
3. Garnish with mint leaves, cucumber, orange, and strawberries.
4. Stir gently and serve immediately.

2. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a sophisticated Italian cocktail that’s perfect for a summer evening. Its bright orange hue and bitter-sweet taste make it a stylish choice.

Ingredients:

• 50ml Aperol.
• 75ml Prosecco.
• 25ml soda water.
• Orange slice.

Method:

1. Fill a large wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Aperol, followed by the Prosecco.
3. Add a splash of soda water.
4. Garnish with an orange slice and stir gently.

3. Elderflower Gin Fizz

For a floral twist on a classic gin cocktail, the Elderflower Gin Fizz is both elegant and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 50ml gin.
• 25ml elderflower cordial.
• 25ml fresh lemon juice.
• Soda water.
• Lemon twist.

Method:

1. In a shaker, combine the gin, elderflower cordial, and lemon juice with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
3. Top with soda water.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

4. Mojito

The Mojito, a Cuban classic, is known for its vibrant, refreshing flavour, making it a perfect summer cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 50ml white rum.
• 1 tbsp sugar.
• 2 limes (cut into wedges).
• Fresh mint leaves.
• Soda water.

Method:

1. Muddle the lime wedges, sugar, and mint leaves in a glass.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Pour in the white rum and top with soda water.
4. Stir gently and garnish with additional mint leaves.

5. Rosé Sangria

For a fruity and sophisticated option, try a Rosé Sangria. This delightful cocktail is easy to make in large batches, ideal for a dinner party.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of rosé wine.
• 50ml brandy.
• 200ml soda water.
• Fresh strawberries, raspberries, and peaches.
• Fresh mint leaves.

Method:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the rosé wine and brandy.
2. Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, and peaches.
3. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, add the soda water and mint leaves.
5. Serve over ice in large wine glasses.

Tips for Perfect Cocktails

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh fruits, herbs, and juices make a significant difference in the flavour and presentation of your cocktails.
2. Quality Spirits: Using high-quality spirits ensures a better-tasting cocktail.
3. Presentation Matters: Garnishing your cocktails with fresh herbs, citrus slices, or edible flowers adds a touch of elegance.
4. Chill Your Glassware: Serving cocktails in chilled glasses keeps them cooler for longer and enhances the drinking experience.

Creating sophisticated cocktails for your summer dinner party doesn't have to be complicated. With these easy-to-make recipes, you'll be able to impress your guests with delightful drinks that capture the essence of summer. At Parson’s Nose, we believe that great food and drinks are at the heart of every memorable gathering. Explore our range of premium meats via our online shop to complement your cocktails and make your dinner party truly unforgettable.

Cheers to a fabulous summer from all of us at Parson’s Nose!