What will you have in your glass this summer? If you’re like many, your drinking habits may be shifting a bit. A number of trends are emerging that show a change in consumer attitudes and appetites. Here, we take a look at these trends, see what’s sipping well this season at Canada Bay Club, and even share some refreshing summer drinks recipes you can make at home.
Latest Drinking Trends
Health and wellness are understandably front of mind for many, with more mindful drinking and the ‘sober curious’ movement on the rise. So you may have noticed a recent explosion of no-alcohol and low-alcohol (NOLO) beverages on the market, including alcohol-removed wines, non-alcoholic spirits, and low-sugar alcohol alternatives. It’s a trend gaining traction, with many looking to add these options to their drinking repertoire. Look out for some of the new additions, such as Lyres London Dry, Lyres London American Malt , Carlton Zero and Great Northern Zero.
Supporting local producers is another growing trend, with our customers seeking some of their favourite brews and wines to show their appreciation for local makers. Craft breweries have popped up all over the country, and we’re seeing more and more in the Inner West. Local distilleries are now making world-class spirits, with names such as Four Pillars and Archie Rose gaining recognition for their quality on the global stage. And now, hard seltzer makers, such as Fellr and Sips, are also making their mark in Australia.
Finally, the popularity of spirits – especially ready-to-drink (RTD) offerings – is undeniable. In fact, a recent report shows a marked increase in the number of Australians drinking spirits, and if this trend continues, more Australians will be drinking spirits than beer in 12 months’ time. Hard to believe, right?
Canada Bay Club: The Balcony Bar
No matter what your beverage of choice, nothing says summer like alfresco drinks on sunny summer days. That’s why we’re so excited to welcome you to The Balcony Bar at Canada Bay Club. We’ve stocked the bar with spirits and mixers for all your favourite cocktails, including our Mojito, Aperol Spritz, Cosmopolitan and Espresso Martini. And what could be better than a beautiful Tequila Sunrise during a beautiful sunset overlooking Hen and Chicken Bay and the Barnwell Park Golf Club?
With the ongoing gin eruption, we’ve got your old stalwarts at the ready for your G&Ts, such as Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s and Tanqueray as well as some newer Australian favourites, including Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin and couple of the colourful Ink gins.
You’ll also find an array of wines by the glass (two sizes!) or bottle, including sparkling, white and red options – many from some of Australia’s most renowned wine regions. Don’t forget the official wine of summer: sunny-day rosé! (Be sure to try our Artea French Rosé from Provence and the Marlborough, NZ, Baby Doll Rosé – both popular choices.)
For beers on tap, we’ve got your golden oldies, including VB, Carlton and Tooheys New; craft beers, such as Canada Bay XPA and Hopsmith IPA craft beers from Five Dock’s own Akasha Brewing Co and Pacific Ale from Byron Bay’s Stone & Wood; and more.
The balcony is available from 5:30 pm to 9 pm Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
How to Make Summer Drinks at Home
Can’t make it down to the Club? You can be your own bartender at home and create these popular concoctions from The Balcony Bar menu and beyond. All you need are your favourite spirits, a few kitchen staples, a handful of fresh ingredients and lots of ice! Then you can shake up your summer with these easy and delicious cocktail recipes.
Here’s a few of our most popular cocktails to enjoy from the comfort of home.
MOJITO
Ingredients
30ml freshly squeezed lime juice
1 tsp sugar
3 or 4 fresh mint leaves
45ml white rum
Club soda
Instructions
1. Muddle the lime juice, sugar and mint leaves in a tall, narrow glass.
2. Add ice and rum.
3. Top with club soda, stir and serve.
MOSCOW MULE
Ingredients
15ml freshly squeezed lime juice
60ml vodka
Cold ginger beer
Fresh mint sprig, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Add lime juice, ice cubes (just a few) and vodka to a tall, narrow glass or copper Moscow Mule mug and stir.
2. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with mint (if using).
APEROL SPRITZ
Ingredients
2 parts Aperol
2 parts Prosecco
1 part club soda
Orange wedge, for garnish
Instructions
1. Combine Aperol, Prosecco and club soda in a wine glass or tumbler.
2. Garnish with orange wedge.
Visit our What’s On page to find out what’s happening at Canada Bay Club this summer, from special events, promotions and raffles to sports, fitness, games and leisure. We hope to see you at the Balcony Bar for a summer cocktail soon!
