In many ways, ginger beer feels like an old-fashioned, beverage with limited application as a mixer, due to its strident flavour. But it does have the ability to add a powerful kick to any cocktail. Naturally, the style of ginger beer will have a big impact on the finish of your cocktail – some will be sweeter and some spicier, while there can also be a noticeable difference in effervescence – so it’s worth trying a few different brands before you begin experimenting.
Moscow Mule
This vodka-ginger-beer-lime concoction feels like a cocktail for the ages. Simple to assemble, it packs a flavoursome punch. Pour a generous shot of vodka over ice, top with ginger beer and finish with a squeeze of lime juice. Serve in a copper mug, if you can, engraved with a kicking mule to add a sense of occasion.
Dark ‘N’ Stormy
The taste of the Caribbean in a glass. The national drink of Bermuda – where it was reputedly the favourite choice among British sailors on shore leave – the Dark ‘N’ Stormy pairs dark rum (Gosling’s Black Seal is the traditional choice) with ginger beer and a squeeze of fresh lime, served over ice.
Strawberry Rum Cooler
The perfect party drink! Make a strawberry smoothie by simmering a punnet of hulled fruit with a little water, lime juice, sugar and ginger, before blending to a smooth liquid. Assemble the coolers by combining some of the smoothie with dark and light rum and a dash or two of bitters. Top with ice and ginger beer to taste.
Dirty Sanchez
Reputedly created by Philip Jeffrey at London’s GE Club, this moreish cocktail is a more elegant choice than the name suggests. Simply combine tequila with lime juice, Chambord black raspberry liqueur and ice, and shake till cool. Serve in a Collins glass over ice and top with ginger beer.
No-jito
Think virgin Mojito. This flavoursome drink muddles sugar syrup with fresh lime juice and mint leaves before topping with ice and ginger beer. You could turn this into a full-strength Ginger Mojito by pouring Edmunds ready-to-serve Mojito into an ice-filled glass and topping with ginger beer or ginger ale instead of soda water.
