Summer is still in full force and there is no better accompaniment than a cool, crafted cocktail. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, staying surfside, exploring cities or just hanging out in your own backyard, a delicious cocktail has the power to enhance nearly any experience. We’ve gathered our favorites from across the Meritage Collection for you to recreate at home. So grab your freshest ingredients and a friend or two. Mix up these treats, then raise your glass high and toast to all that is right in your world. Cheers!
COCONUT MOJITO
Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort / Kauai, HI
Frosty, creamy, smooth and tropical, a modern Hawaiian twist on this Cuban classic makes this drink too tasty to keep to yourself. Make a big batch, call over your friends and let the flavors transport you straight to the beautiful beaches and aloha vibe of Kauai.
- 1 Shot of Light Rum
- 1 Shot of Malibu Rum
- 2 oz. of Pineapple Juice
- 1 Scoop of Coconut Ice Cream or Gelato
- 2 Mint Leafs (garnish)
- Lime (garnish)
Put all of the ingredients (except the garnish) into blender or food processor and whirl until smooth. Immediately pour into a hurricane glass and garnish with fresh lime and mint. Clink glasses and enjoy.
BIG PIMMIN’
Paséa Hotel & Spa | Huntington Beach, CA
A simple stunner that screams summer. The herbaceous, botanical flavors of the Pimm’s No 1, the punch of the gin, the brightness of citrus and the sweetness of simple syrup are amplified by a generous and unexpected garnish. Paséa Hotel & Spa’s beverage manager Pim Berkeley kindly shares this delicious eponymous creation with us.
- 1 oz. Pimm’s No. 1
- 1 oz. Tanqueray Gin
- 0.5 oz. Lemon Juice
- 0.5 oz. Simple Syrup
Add the ingredients into a shaker and gently shake. Fill a collins glass with ice and pour over. Garnish this drink heavily with the shaved cucumber, mint and strawberry to accentuate its luxurious, abundant feel.
FARM-TO-TABLE
The Meritage Resort & Spa / Napa, CA
The ultimate refresher. This cocktail blends delicate botanicals – juniper berry and elderflower – with bright citrus and sparkling, zingy hop water, and tops it with a fresh cucumber from the Meritage Resort’s Chef’s Garden.
- 1.5 oz Junipero Gin,
- 0.5 oz St. Germain
- 0.5 oz Lime Juice
- 2 oz Lagunitas Hop Water
- Cucumber from Chef’s Garden
Fill your best mixing glass with ice and add the Junipero, St. Germain and fresh lime juice. Shake and strain into a pint glass. Add ice, slices of fresh cucumber and top off with the Lagunitas hop water. Sit back, relax and let the cool, crisp flavors wash over you.
