It's World Cocktail Day, and that's all the excuse you need to pause, pour and play with some seasonal flavours. In celebration, Radisson Red V&A Waterfront’s food and beverage creative, Aston Julius, is sharing a cosy new take on a classic spritz that is designed for easy sipping and cold weather comfort.
World Cocktail Day marks the anniversary of the first published definition of the word “cocktail” in a New York tabloid back in 1806. It was described as “a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water and bitters,” and a combination that has since evolved into an entire culture of creative mixology.
Today, cocktails are about special moments — that quiet hour before sunset, a gathering with friends, or a small ritual to mark the end of a long day. For Julius, that’s exactly what makes the Golden Garden Spritz (winter edition) so appealing.
“For me, there’s something about a winter evening that feels especially comforting,” says Julius. “The air turns crisp, the light softens, and time seems to pause just long enough to savour what’s in your glass. That’s what inspired this cocktail. It’s not extravagant, it’s a gentle way to bring joy to the colder season.”
The Golden Garden Spritz keeps things simple. No shaking, no bar kit required. Just fresh ingredients, a tall glass and a little time to enjoy the moment.
Golden Garden Spritz (winter edition) recipe:
Ingredients
- 60 ml vodka or gin
- 30 ml fresh lemon juice (lime juice also works)
- 15 ml honey syrup (see recipe below)
- 2 to 3 slices of fresh strawberries
- A few torn mint leaves
- Your choice of:
- Soda water (light and classic)
- Tonic water (bittersweet, great with gin)
- Ginger beer (warming and spicy)
- Lemonade or Sprite (extra citrusy)
- Honey Syrup. Mix equal parts honey and hot water. Stir until fully combined. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Method
- In a tall glass, add the strawberries and mint.
- Gently muddle with a spoon to release the flavour.
- Add your spirit of choice, lemon juice and honey syrup.
- Stir with ice.
- Top with your preferred fizzy mixer.
- Garnish with mint or an extra slice of strawberry if you like.
This cocktail is designed to be as flexible as it is flavourful. Want it fruitier? Add extra berries or a splash of juice. More tart? Up the citrus. Prefer it sweeter? Add more syrup or try maple for richness. The Golden Garden Spritz is a starting point. The rest is up to you.
There’s no perfect way to enjoy it. Take it outdoors for a patio sunset, sip it fireside, or pour a round at your next dinner with friends.
World Cocktail Day reminds us of the long tradition behind our favourite drinks. But this year, enjoy the moment in a more relaxed way. No fancy tools, no fuss. Just the right flavours for the season, made your way.
