When you think of blue cocktails, you may initially associate them with dodgy holiday bars and Only Fools and Horses! To many, they conjure up memories of potent liquids served in highball glasses with decorative (if not slightly tacky) umbrellas, and even a sparkler if you’re lucky.
But, maybe it’s time to rethink the blue cocktail.
With a trickle of chic new blue liquids introduced into the market, such as Monin blue curacao syrup and Belvoir blueberry and blackberry cordial, perhaps it’s time we took a fresh look at our favourite blue tipples.
Blue Curacao
First things first, you may be wondering what ingredient is responsible for the blue colour in these cocktails, and the answer is Curacao. This is one of the leading drinks that bartenders turn to for this vibrant pop of blue colour. Despite its colour, this drink is traditionally made with bitter orange peels, originating from the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. It dates back to the late 1500s when Bols introduced this drink to the market, later adding its trademark blue streak to add an air of mystery to it.
Available in different colours other than their trademark blue, this line was introduced to offer a variety of eye-catching colours to liven up any drink, as well as a sweet kick. Volumes can vary from 15-40%.
So why the colour blue? Well, rumour has it that the vibrant colour seeks to emulate the ocean-blue waters of the Caribbean island, to add a ‘tropical flavour’ reminiscent of holidays.
Blue cocktails don’t have to be synonymous with a lack of sophistication, here’s just a few new and established blue inspired cocktails to prove it.
Frozen Blue Lagoon
The trend of frozen cocktails hit bars and pubs in 2018, leading to Vimto-out-of-home’s FRŸST range popular with the rookie because of how easy it is to use, the Blue Lagoon frozen mix can be mixed with a base spirit and immediately ready to serve. Although this is great for the ‘newbie’ preparing quick homemade recipes, it is not as popular amongst bartenders that like to use the freshest ingredients in their drinks.
In a recent interview, Ed Jones, Senior Customer Marketing Manager for Vimto Out of Home, said: “A massive 78% of bars now serve cocktails, this sector is booming and shows no sign of slowing.’’
The Blue Hawaii
When the King of pop Elvis released his film ‘Blue Hawaii’ back in the 60s, it kicked off a trend for blue cocktails that had never been seen before. The ‘Blue Hawaii’ was born – a fruity, ocean blue long drink bursting with flavour, perfect for a lazy summer afternoon.
To create this timeless tipple, mix 50ml of Bacardi Carta Blanca (or any white rum) with 50ml of blue curacao and 100ml of pineapple juice, and a teaspoon of coconut cream to give it a cloudy look. Shake intensely in a cocktail shaker filled with ice, then strain into a tall glass for serving.
Sapphire Alpine
A flavourful blue martini that appeals to a stylish audience, the Sapphire Alpine is a classy cocktail you would be proud to serve to guests. Unlike most gin based martinis, this isn’t a dry drink, since its gentle botanic and citrus undertones give it a unique edge.
With just three key ingredients, this is an incredibly simple drink to create. Mix 1 ounce of Bombay Sapphire Gin with 1 ounce of blue curacao liqueur and 1 ounce of peach schnapps. Serve in a chilled martini glass and garnish.
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