Raise the bar: Cocktails for your ice only

Frozen cubes of your favourite bitters, alcohol, or simply garnish such as rose or thyme can be popped out anytime to add to liquors or mixers.

Forget fancy bitters, imported liquors, and flavoured spirits for your next sundowner. If you are looking to step up your cocktail and mocktail game at home this summer, infused ice cubes can really elevate the experience. Frozen cubes of your favourite bitters, alcohol, or simply garnish such as rose or thyme can be popped out anytime to add to liquors or mixers. The ice will not only help with temperature but also lift the flavour and texture.

Frozen cubes of your favourite bitters, alcohol, or simply garnish such as rose or thyme can be popped out anytime to add to liquors or mixers.

“With negronis, instead of simply putting the orange peel on the side of the rim, serve it frozen inside an ice cube for added texture and a more refined experience of the drink. Similarly, the Indian sour with fresh figs is often served with the figs frozen up. The ice slowly melts into the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup mixture,” says mixologist Ajay Tomar.

Flowers can be paired with floral or scented drinks. “Hibiscus and other floral agents can be preserved dry or fresh in the form of infused ice cubes to add aromatic elements that linger on while you sip away,” shares Tomar. He adds that those looking to work with fruits and herbs can freeze berries, oranges, pears, and peels (orange, lemon, lime). “For herbs and edible botanicals, freeze up roses, lavender, and jasmine.”