Basic HTML Version
TIPPLES
At The London Kitchen we are consistently
being asked about what sort of drinks should
be served at wedding receptions. The list is
endless but I thought it would be a great idea
to list our top ten to give you some ideas.
1
Let’s start our list with an obvious favourite –
champagne or sparkling wine. Everyone loves a glass of
fizz; it has the sense of occasion and puts everyone in a
celebratory mood. If not champagne then some of the
English sparkling wines are becoming more and more
popular. Our favourites are Chapel Down or Nyetimber.
2
How about a classic bellini? Developed in Venice, it is a
perfect summer cocktail flavoured with white peach. You
could also add a twist to it by substituting tangerine to suit
a winter reception.
3
Is it Pimms o’clock? Nothing says ‘English country
wedding’ better than a glass of Pimms with all of the
traditional accompaniments – cucumber, strawberry and
orange and finished with fresh mint leaves and borage
flower – delish!
4
How about offering theme cocktails to suit your
venue? For instance, if your reception is going to be aboard
a boat why not consider trying a Thames Sparkler which is
Bombay Sapphire gin, cassis, fresh lemon, sugar and
pomegranate juice topped with prosecco. Sublime!
5
Seasonal cocktails should always be considered. If you
are planning a winter event think about trying The
Snowball – raspberry vodka and white crème de cacoa
served shaken in a chilled glass or for summer you could
consider the Elderflower Frost, which is Gordon’s gin with
elderflower cordial, apple juice, crushed ice and mint.
6
Don’t forget that not everyone will want to drink
alcohol, and Coke or orange juice can be somewhat dull so
think about one of these alternatives – try fiery ginger beer,
lime and angostura bitters garnished with mint or
sparkling Moroccan rosewater cordial with fresh
raspberries.
7
Have you considered what you have locally? What
about asking the local brewery to supply you with some
local ales or ciders. It could be something that most people
may not have tried.
8
Let’s focus for a minute on winter weddings. Offer a
warming glass of mulled wine or spiced cider to put your
guests in the festive mood and add to the crisp elegance of
a winter celebration.
9
Seaside events lend themselves perfectly to a sparkling
rosé – it’s so pink and flirty! Or a Sea Breeze (vodka with
cranberry and orange) is a good fit for parties on the sand.
10
Finally imagine the garden tea party wedding
reception with a Rose Bud – vanilla vodka, pineapple juice
and cranberry juice served shaken over ice in a martini glass
decorated with rose petals. Perfect!
With so many decisions to be made at wedding time,
I hope that these suggestions help a little along the way!
Damian Clarkson is managing director of
The London Kitchen, premium event caterers,
www.thelondonkitchen.com
TOPTEN
‘Have you considered what
you have locally? What
about asking the local
brewery to supply you with
some local ales or ciders?’
pink weddings magazine 81
The London KiTchen
What drinks should you serve at your reception?
In his first regular column,
Damian Clarkson
gives his top ten suggestions