The Fresh Taste of Spring

Once the snow clears and subzero temperatures subside, good times on the patio are just around the corner. And so is the thirst for lighter drinks that leave you refreshed. To help you celebrate the changing of the season, I’ve picked a fantastic array of bright and lively spring drinks that you can enjoy on the deck as the sun takes the chill away.

The days are getting longer and brighter. So, sit back, take a sip and enjoy the taste of spring.

Darnley’s View Gin ($38.99; MLCC) is made with six carefully selected berries, seeds, peels, roots and flowers known collectively as the botanicals. The principal botanicals of juniper, lemon peel and elderflower creates a well rounded and smooth gin with a wonderfully warm finish. Darnley’s View never bites making it a great choice of gin for the spring and summer.

Eric Louis Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc ($23.04, France; MLCC) is pale golden in colour, with an open, fruity and concentrated nose of citrus and tropical fruits. This Loire Valley wine displays fine and expressive aromas in the mouth with the balance of the taste appearing when chilled. Very pleasant as an aperitif, it is also the perfect companion for seafood and fish. It will marry nicely with berry salads, asparagus dishes and goat cheese.

White Rabbit ($12.49, Germany; MLCC) is a cool climate Riesling that is well balanced, light and fruit driven that truly reflects the taste of the Rhine region. Just a touch of sweetness and fresh acidity make this white a wonderful and easy wine to drink. Match the White Rabbit Riesling with appetizers or with white meats, rice and pasta, sushi, shellfish, salads, fish and cheese.

Gin Mojito
8 mint leaves
1 teaspoon sugar
1 ounce fresh lime juice
2 ounces Darnley’s View Gin
2 ounces tonic
Ice

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves with the sugar. Add the lime juice, Darnley’s View gin and ice and shake well. Strain into an ice-filled glass, top with tonic and garnish with a mint sprig.