Introduction
The Hills Are Alive is a cocktail that captures the essence of a sunlit meadow with every sip. This effervescent mix of gin, fino sherry, and elderflower is brightened by a splash of sparkling wine, creating a drink that's as refreshing as it is sophisticated. Its floral and citrus notes make it a perfect choice for spring and summer gatherings, or anytime you want to bring a bit of sunshine to your glass.
This cocktail draws inspiration from the vibrant landscapes of the Alps, reminiscent of the iconic scenes from *The Sound of Music*. Just like the movie's famous songs, The Hills Are Alive is a harmonious blend of flavors that sing together in perfect unison. Its use of elderflower liqueur adds a modern twist to the classic gin base, making it a contemporary favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Fun fact: elderflower, the star ingredient in this drink, has been used in European beverages for centuries. Its delicate floral aroma and subtle sweetness have made it a beloved addition to cocktails and cordials alike. In The Hills Are Alive, it pairs beautifully with the dry notes of fino sherry and the effervescence of sparkling wine, creating a drink that's both timeless and fresh.
Ingredients
To create The Hills Are Alive, you'll need a selection of quality ingredients that bring out the cocktail's vibrant character. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 oz Gin: Opt for a gin with botanical complexity to complement the elderflower and sherry.
- 1 oz Fino Sherry: Fino sherry adds a dry, nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- 0.5 oz St-Germain: St-Germain is a premium elderflower liqueur that brings floral elegance to the cocktail.
- 0.5 oz Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for a bright, zesty kick.
- 0.5 tsp Simple Syrup: A small amount of simple syrup rounds out the citrus and floral notes.
- 1 dash Orange Bitters: A dash of orange bitters enhances the complexity of flavors.
- 2 oz Sparkling Wine: Choose a dry sparkling wine to add effervescence and a crisp finish.
- 1 Lemon Verbena: Lemon verbena offers an aromatic garnish that complements the drink's floral notes.
- 1 Lemon Wheel: A lemon wheel adds visual appeal and a hint of citrus aroma.
Instructions
Crafting The Hills Are Alive is a straightforward process that lets the ingredients shine. Follow these steps to mix the perfect cocktail:
- Combine all ingredients except the sparkling wine in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Strain into a large wine glass over fresh ice.
- Top with sparkling wine and garnish with lemon verbena and a lemon wheel.
Tips
- Chill your wine glass in advance to keep the cocktail crisp and refreshing.
- Use a quality sparkling wine, such as a brut Champagne or Prosecco, to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Taste before you top with sparkling wine to adjust the balance of sweetness and acidity if needed.
- Gently stir after adding the sparkling wine to preserve the bubbles.
Conclusion
The Hills Are Alive is more than just a cocktail; it's an experience that transports you to a serene, sunlit hillside with every sip. Its harmonious blend of floral, citrus, and effervescent elements makes it a standout choice for any occasion.
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The Hills Are Alive recipe adapted from Be Your Own Bartender by Carey Jones, John McCarthy and J. Kenji López-Alt.
