Which glasses, how much ice and which sugar?

Ingredients

• 1 clelderflower syrup (Olmmardisa Reserve)
• 5 clpassion fruit juice
• 4 cltonic water
• 1 clcranberry juice
• 6 clsugar syrup
• 1 clmelon liqueur
• 2 dashesDratosvener bitters
• to tastefresh citrus zest
• plentyice

Instructions

1. 1

   Shake with ice

   Put all the ingredients in a shaker with plenty of ice and shake vigorously.

2. 2

   Strain into glass

   Strain the mixture into a pre-chilled glass and finish with two dashes of Dratosvener bitters.

3. 3

   Add the garnish

   Garnish with fresh zest and serve straight away.

What is this fruit cocktail?

This is a mixed fruit cocktail rather than a named classic: passion fruit and cranberry bring tartness, while elderflower and sugar syrups add sweetness. Melon liqueur gives it a further fruity note, with tonic water in the mix.

The recipe does not specify a glass style or a particular citrus for the zest. Its simple method—shake, strain and garnish—makes it quick to prepare.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 260 calories, 0g protein, 63g carbs, 0g fat.

Most of the estimated energy and carbohydrate comes from the sugar syrup, with additional sugars from the elderflower syrup and fruit juices. The liqueur contributes a smaller amount, while the recipe contains very little protein or fat. Pair it with a savoury snack that includes a source of protein to make a more balanced spread.

The sweet ingredients

Syrups: both elderflower syrup and sugar syrup contribute sweetness, while the passion fruit and cranberry juices give the drink its fruit character. Measure them carefully so the sugar syrup does not overwhelm the other flavours.

Melon liqueur: the small measure adds another fruit note. Keep to the listed quantity to let the juices and elderflower remain distinct.

Shaking and tonic

Plenty of ice: shake the ingredients as directed until the shaker feels cold. The recipe includes tonic in the shaker, so shake firmly but avoid needlessly extending the shake.

Straining: pour through the shaker strainer into a pre-chilled glass. This keeps the serving smooth and avoids transferring the shaker ice.

Choosing a glass

Glass choice: the recipe calls for a pre-chilled glass but does not prescribe a shape. A small cocktail glass or a short tumbler can both work; choose one that comfortably holds the strained drink.

Ice in the glass: the method strains the cocktail rather than serving it over crushed ice. Follow that instruction for the closest match to the recipe.

Bitters and zest

Bitters: add two dashes after straining, as specified. They give the sweet, fruity mixture a more aromatic finish.

Zest: use a fresh piece of citrus zest as the garnish. Expressing it gently over the glass can release its aroma, then place it on the rim or in the drink.

Serve it promptly

This cocktail takes about three minutes to assemble, and the recipe says to serve it immediately. That keeps the drink cold and the garnish fresh.

It can be served on its own or alongside small savoury snacks. Avoid preparing it far ahead, as ice will dilute the mixture.

Recipe notes & tips

• Chill the serving glass before you start mixing.
• Measure each liquid rather than pouring by eye, especially the sugar syrup.
• Use plenty of ice in the shaker, as the method specifies.
• Shake vigorously, then strain straight into the chilled glass.
• Add the bitters after straining and finish with fresh zest.
• Serve as soon as it is made to limit dilution.

Variations

• Less sweet: reduce the sugar syrup slightly and taste before serving.
• More tart: increase the passion fruit juice a little and adjust the sweetness to suit.
• Citrus garnish: use lemon or orange zest for a different aromatic finish.
• No melon liqueur: leave it out for a less complex fruit profile.
• Tonic on top: add the tonic after straining for a fizzier finish, though this changes the listed method.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Too much syrup: the drink can become cloying; measure the listed quantities carefully.
• Warm glass: it can take the chill off the cocktail; pre-chill it as directed.
• Weak shaking: the mixture may not chill properly; shake it vigorously with plenty of ice.
• Over-shaking the tonic: extended shaking can reduce its fizz; shake firmly and strain promptly.
• Serving late: melting ice dilutes the drink; garnish and serve straight away.

How to store

This cocktail is best made and served immediately. Do not store it mixed with ice, as it will dilute; keep the syrups and juices refrigerated separately according to their packaging.

Frequently asked questions