Patrick (Paddy) Moore A Bright, Botanical Toast to the Long Days of Summer
The Story
June arrives with a certain magic.
The days stretch long into the evening, patios awaken, gardens burst into bloom, and travellers begin dreaming of summer adventures. Whether you’re wandering a waterfront promenade, enjoying a backyard gathering with friends, or simply watching the sunset linger a little longer, June invites us to slow down and savour the moment.
This month’s Alternatini celebrates that spirit.
The Solstice Sparkler captures the essence of early summer with delicate elderflower, cooling cucumber, fresh mint, and sparkling water. Elegant enough for a special occasion yet simple enough for a Tuesday evening on the deck, it delivers all the ritual and refreshment of a great cocktail—without the alcohol.
Think of it as summer in a glass: light, fragrant, and full of possibility.
The Solstice Sparkler
Ingredients
- 2 oz elderflower cordial
- 3 thin cucumber slices
- 6 fresh mint leaves
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- Sparkling water or club soda
- Ice
Garnish
- Cucumber ribbon
- Fresh mint sprig
- Lemon wheel
Prepare
- Add cucumber slices and mint leaves to a shaker or mixing glass.
- Gently muddle to release their aromas.
- Add elderflower cordial, lemon juice, and ice.
- Shake lightly or stir well.
- Strain into a large wine glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Garnish with cucumber ribbon, mint sprig, and lemon wheel.
How to Make It
The secret is restraint. The cucumber and mint should whisper rather than shout, allowing the floral notes of elderflower to remain the star of the show.
Use good-quality sparkling water and plenty of fresh ice. A wine glass or large goblet gives the drink room to breathe and elevates the experience.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Crystal-clear with vibrant green accents.
Aroma: Fresh garden mint, citrus, and delicate floral notes.
Palate: Crisp, refreshing, subtly sweet, and beautifully balanced.
Finish: Clean, cooling, and thirst-quenching.
Traveltini Inspiration
The Solstice Sparkler feels right at home in places where summer evenings seem endless.
Imagine sipping one while strolling the waterfront in Stockholm, watching boats drift through the harbour in Copenhagen, cycling along the shoreline in Vancouver, or enjoying the flower-lined pathways of Victoria.
The destination matters less than the mindset: relaxed, curious, and fully present.
Traveltini Tip
Freeze mint leaves inside ice cubes a day ahead of serving. As the ice slowly melts, it releases subtle aromatics while creating a beautiful presentation worthy of any summer gathering.
“To sunshine, good company, and making memories that will last a lifetime.”
