Seasonal Sips: 5 Cocktails Perfect for the Indian Monsoon

The monsoon season in India brings with it a unique charm – the petrichor in the air, the lush greenery, and the cozy feeling of watching the rain fall. It's a time for reflection, comfort, and perhaps, a perfectly crafted drink in hand. Forget the summery mojitos; the monsoon calls for something different – something warming, subtly spiced, or perhaps a refreshing twist to cut through the humidity.

At The Bar Shop, we believe every season deserves its signature sips. So, pull out your finest whiskey glasses and cocktail shakers, because we've curated 5 delightful cocktails that are absolutely perfect for enjoying the magic of the Indian monsoon.

1. The Spiced Monsoon Gin & Tonic

Forget the usual G&T; the monsoon version adds a layer of comforting spice that perfectly complements the cool, damp weather.

Why it works for Monsoon: The botanical notes of gin pair beautifully with warm spices, making it more robust than a typical summer G&T.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml Gin (an Indian craft gin works wonderfully!)

• 15 ml Fresh Lime Juice

• 10 ml Spiced Simple Syrup (see Pro Tip below!)

• Top with Premium Tonic Water

• Garnish: A star anise pod and a lime wheel.

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.

2. Add gin, lime juice, and spiced simple syrup.

3. Stir gently to combine.

4. Top with tonic water.

5. Garnish with a star anise pod and a lime wheel.

Pro Tip: Spiced Simple Syrup: Combine equal parts water and sugar with a few cardamom pods, a cinnamon stick, and a couple of cloves. Simmer until sugar dissolves, then let it cool and steep for at least an hour before straining. Store in an airtight bottle.

2. The Hot Toddy with an Indian Twist

Nothing says cozy like a warm Hot Toddy. We’re giving this classic a local spin with a touch of ginger and honey for those chilly, rainy evenings.

Why it works for Monsoon: It's naturally warming, soothing, and perfect for warding off the monsoon chill.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml Indian Whisky or Dark Rum

• 15 ml Fresh Lemon Juice

• 15 ml Honey

• 1-2 thin slices of fresh Ginger

• 120 ml Hot Water

• Garnish: A cinnamon stick or a lemon wedge studded with cloves.

Instructions:

1. In a heat-resistant mug or Irish coffee glass, combine whisky/rum, lemon juice, honey, and ginger slices.

2. Pour in hot water and stir until the honey is fully dissolved.

3. Taste and adjust honey or lemon as per preference.

4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or clove-studded lemon.

. The Cardamom Old Fashioned

A timeless classic gets a fragrant Indian makeover. The subtle warmth of cardamom elevates the rich notes of whisky, making it a perfect fireside (or window-side) companion.

Why it works for Monsoon: The depth of whisky combined with aromatic cardamom provides a sophisticated warmth ideal for cooler evenings.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml Indian Whisky or Bourbon

• 1 Sugar Cube (or 5 ml simple syrup)

• 3-4 Dashes Angostura Bitters

• 2-3 Green Cardamom Pods, lightly crushed

• A splash of water or soda

• Garnish: An orange peel and a single cardamom pod.

Instructions:

1. Place the sugar cube (or simple syrup) and crushed cardamom pods in an old fashioned glass.

2. Add the Angostura bitters and a splash of water or soda.

3. Muddle gently until the sugar dissolves and the cardamom releases its aroma.

4. Add a large ice cube or several smaller ones.

5. Pour in the whisky.

6. Stir gently for about 30 seconds until well-chilled.

7. Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in. Garnish with a cardamom pod.