For whatever reason, it seems as if almost all the world's favourite cocktails come from Venice. Perhaps, it is because the city has always seemed to magnetically draw artists and writers to it and, as we all know, many a creative type has been known to be fond of a drink. Or, maybe, it is because the city has ever been one of the most glamourous destinations in the world where the rich and famous go to enjoy the surroundings and the good life; particularly, the fine dining and the drinks that inevitably are paired along with the food. Either way, it seems that the clientèle of bars in Venice have always been a discerning lot and, due to this, it has kept the city's bartenders on their toes. Certainly, it just adds to the long list of reasons to visit the city so why not find a holiday rental in Venice and try out one of their legendary bars such as Harry's Bar? If it was good enough for Hemingway then you'll surely enjoy it!
This environment seems to have encouraged great creativity and Venice, in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, was the birthplace of many drinks which went on to become standards in bars around the globe. One cocktail from the city that you are likely to be unfamiliar with, however, is the Sgroppino which is basically a boozy smoothie – sounds good, right? Made with lemon and smooth and icy cold, it's often seen as the perfect Summer cocktail. However, it is also a brilliant palate cleanser which can be used to help enhance a delicious meal. Its origins are uncertain but it is said to have once been used as a digestif by Venetian nobility – intrigued? Here's how to make it for yourself.
This environment seems to have encouraged great creativity and Venice, in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, was the birthplace of many drinks which went on to become standards in bars around the globe. One cocktail from the city that you are likely to be unfamiliar with, however, is the Sgroppino which is basically a boozy smoothie – sounds good, right? Made with lemon and smooth and icy cold, it's often seen as the perfect Summer cocktail. However, it is also a brilliant palate cleanser which can be used to help enhance a delicious meal. Its origins are uncertain but it is said to have once been used as a digestif by Venetian nobility – intrigued? Here's how to make it for yourself.
Ingredients
Serves 4
500ml lemon sorbet
500ml Prosecco
Method
There are variations on this recipe. Some make it with more sorbet so that it is exceptionally smoothie-like while others don't mix the ingredients and serve it almost like an ice-cream float. This recipe is designed to create a more balanced version but you can adjust it to personal preference.
1. Remove sorbet from freezer about 10 minutes before assembling the cocktail to let it soften.
2. The consistency here is key. It needs to be light and frothy. Place sorbet in a bowl and whisk by hand until creamy and soft (like the texture of frosting). Some will use electric mixers but purists argue that this will make the sorbet melt too quickly and ruin the cocktail.
3. Add the prosecco a little at a time, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. The Sgroppino is then traditionally served in a champagne flute.
Of course, the best way to serve or enjoy this drink is while in Venice itself!
Serves 4
500ml lemon sorbet
500ml Prosecco
Method
There are variations on this recipe. Some make it with more sorbet so that it is exceptionally smoothie-like while others don't mix the ingredients and serve it almost like an ice-cream float. This recipe is designed to create a more balanced version but you can adjust it to personal preference.
1. Remove sorbet from freezer about 10 minutes before assembling the cocktail to let it soften.
2. The consistency here is key. It needs to be light and frothy. Place sorbet in a bowl and whisk by hand until creamy and soft (like the texture of frosting). Some will use electric mixers but purists argue that this will make the sorbet melt too quickly and ruin the cocktail.
3. Add the prosecco a little at a time, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. The Sgroppino is then traditionally served in a champagne flute.
Of course, the best way to serve or enjoy this drink is while in Venice itself!