Mix Up Your Mixology And Try London’s Most Unusual Cocktails

Cocktails have never had it so good. Even the most humble bars seem to boast a world-class mixologist, no party is complete without a bespoke concoction, and special-edition spirits seem to offer a different niche botanical flavour each month. And in October, London Cocktail Week – a celebration of the city’s unparalleled cocktail culture – is set to showcase just how far we’ve come from JDs and Coke.

But have we come far enough? Fancy a salmon-infused aperitivo, as devised by Kings Cross’ GNH bar? Or a Bloody Mary remade in vibrant yellow, from Italian fine dining restaurant Margot? How about The Blind Pig’s mauve coupe inspired by the caterpillar in Alice in Wonderland?

In an act of unparalleled selflessness, we sought out the weirdest and most wonderful cocktails the capital has to offer – and we dare you to try them at home.

GNH Bar’s Something Fishy

Method
1. If you fancy yourself a bit of a Heston Blumenthal and are brave enough to attempt making this at home, the first step is to infuse your vodka.
2. For every litre of vodka, use 20g of dill and 75g of smoked salmon.
3. Cook the vodka, salmon and dill in a sous vide (that’s a water bath, for those not in the know) for 50 minutes, then let chill in the fridge for 24 hours.
4. Use a cheese cloth to filter the fat, then filter again with a coffee filter, until the vodka is completely clear of fat.
5. Stir together all the ingredients for 20 seconds.
6. Double strain into a fish bowl glass.
7. Garnish with an edible viola flower.

Margot’s Bloody Mary

Method
1. Blend the yellow tomatoes together and double strain the mixture to ensure it is smooth.
2. Add the rest of ingredients, then shake with ice and pour over cubed ice into a highball glass.
3. Garnish with basil leaf.

The Blind Pig’s Languid Caterpillar

Method
Shake all ingredients vigorously together in a cocktail shaker and strain into a wine glass