In case you’ve never given it a second thought, every day, somewhere it’s 5 o’clock. Sure, we know you’d rather be enjoying Happy Hour relaxing poolside with a cocktail in hand. Or maybe at a rooftop bar in New York City with friends. Sadly, we know that’s not possible yet. But there’s nothing stopping you from recreating fabulous cocktails at home. And when you do, invite your friends to your “Virtual” Happy Hour. The experience may be simulated, but the drinks will be real. Cheers to that!
The TravelSquire’s own Virtual Happy Hour Series nods to an assortment of select hotel bars around the world. We’ve rounded-up of some the finest wanderlust inducing cocktails from these luxury properties to transport your taste buds to their far flung destinations – the fragrant gardens of a Parisian Palace, the glamorous 1920s in the Scottish Highlands, and the powder-soft sands of Mexico’s Caribbean coast.
With Virtual Happy Hour on apps such as FaceTime, Zoom and House Party trending more than ever, our suggested cocktails aim to keep friends entertained virtually while in self-isolation.
So, grab your shaker, pound some ice and get ready to have a little fun creating … then sipping!
THE DESTINATION: Casares, Spain
The mystique and allure of Andalusia’s Costa del Sol was a potent magnet for the international jet set long before Barcelona and Madrid took over the market. Heck, the sheer number of beaches, picturesque white villages inland, and the never-ending sunshine means that when Happy Hour strikes, everyone lets loose. After a celebratory tipple, nibble on tapas and knock back Sangrias to the beat of flamenco into the wee hours. If there is one thing I learned during my time in Spain … it’s that the Spaniards hate to go to sleep!
THE HOTEL: FINCA CORTESIN
Finca Cortesin is Southern Spain’s best-kept secret; a spectacular, independently owned hotel, golf and spa resort set in the rolling hills between Marbella and Sotogrande, flanked by the Casares Mountains and with sweeping views of the Mediterranean coastline. The hotel’s Blue Bar serves classic cocktails alongside more innovative creations al fresco on a beautiful patio lounge. The photogenic bar features bespoke de Gournay wallpaper and contrasting pale red sofas with the same symmetrical décor that flows throughout the property.
Cocktail enthusiasts will want to recreate the hotel’s acclaimed, intricate interior design – and not just the bestselling Basilicus – at home. Created by Finca Cortesin’s inventive Head Bartender and Beverage Manager, Daniele Maroni, the key ingredient is an Andalusian craft gin, which is balanced by the aromatic, citrusy botanical taste of Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto.
The Cocktail: The Basilicus
A flavorful tonic evoking memories of Spain’s seductive southern coast
THE RECIPE:
- 50ml Gin Mare Mediterranean Gin
- 20ml Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto liqueur
- 30ml Fresh Lemon Juice
- 15ml Simple Syrup
- 8 – 10 Fresh Basil Leaves
THE PREPARATION:
- Pour all ingredients, excluding one basil leaf, into a cocktail shaker with ice
- Shake well and double strain into a Martini glass
- Garnish with a single basil leaf
HOW: fincacortesin.com/restaurants/the-blue-bar
*When virtual happy hours are a thing of the past, consider a stay at Finca Cortesin.
And for Venturing Afar…
Wander through art galleries in nearby Malaga where Picasso lived for many years and check out the budding arts district, Soho. Abundant museums bring even more opportunities for new discoveries.
Home to the oldest bullring in Spain, the village of Ronda makes for a fascinating day trip. If it looks vaguely familiar, perhaps you’ll recall Madonna’s Take a Bow video which was partially filmed there. Stroll across the famous 18th-century bridge, Puente Neuvo, which spans the El Tajo Canyon and connects the two sides of the village.
With its exceptional climate, the Costa del Sol provides outdoor enthusiasts with innumerable options. Sailing, fishing, windsurfing, horseback riding and trekking are among the bounty of selections.
No matter how you choose to spend your day, no doubt you’ll want to end it with a nightcap at Finca Cortesin’s Blue Bar. Salud!