How to make classic cocktails at home, with tips from an expert mixologist

“The first cocktail I ever made was a mojito,” recalls Maikal Gurung. “It’s a fun one to make - you just need mint, lime, and sugar. Mix them, add white rum and ice, then top up with soda water. It’s a build-up-in-a-glass drink.”   

It’s late afternoon and The Daily Tot , the Cuban-inspired bar by Singular Concepts where Gurung has served as co-manager for almost three years, is still quiet. In a few hours, though, this popular haunt on Hong Kong’s Hollywood Road will be buzzing with the after-work crowd. Gurung is already eager to welcome them. 

“For us, it’s about more than just the cocktails; it’s about the atmosphere, and interacting with guests,” he explains. 

Still, he adds, experimenting with cocktail recipes at home can be a great way to develop your tastes - not to mention it’s a lot of fun.

So where should DIY mixologists begin? 

For Gurung, preparation is key. “In a bar, we always think about mise en place - making sure everything is ready before we begin,” he says. That means studying a recipe, gathering the ingredients and getting the right tools. You can find an extensive range of spirits from renowned brands at Cathay Shop .

“Start by adhering to your recipe; once you’ve gained some confidence, you can experiment and be creative,” Gurung recommends. “To help with precision in the beginning, it’s a good idea to have a measuring cup, called a jigger, plus a tumbler and stirrer for mixing.”

“Most importantly, you need to keep it fun,” he grins. “Otherwise what’s the point?”

Of course, when you find yourself craving the full night-time experience with an expertly prepared drink in moody and stylish surroundings, Gurung has the perfect drink recommendation. “As part of our signature cocktail range, we have a cocktail called the Spicy Colada. It’s a twist on a classic pina colada, with flavours inspired by tom yum soup. We use lemongrass, kaffir lime and clarified coconut milk. It’s very tempting!”

Cocktail recipes to try at home

Sweet Manhattan

“To make a sweet Manhattan, you can either use bourbon or rye whiskey - the latter will give you more spice,” says Gurung. “Then you’ll need sweet vermouth and bitters.” 

How to make it: Pour 50ml of bourbon or rye whiskey into a tumbler. Add 25ml of sweet vermouth, 5ml of syrup and two dashes of bitter. Give it a stir, then pour the mixture over ice and garnish with a twist of lemon peel. 

“Of course, there are different versions of the Manhattan,” notes Gurung. For an alternate take, try swapping out the sweet vermouth and syrup for amaro or herbal liqueur and maraschino cherries, then garnish with orange peel. 

Daiquiri 

“I love making daiquiris,” says Gurung. “They’re easy to prepare at home, as you only need three ingredients: rum - any rum you like - lime juice and a simple syrup. If I could, I’d always make these for people.”

How to make it: Add 50ml of white rum, 25ml of lime juice, 10ml of sugar syrup and a handful of ice into a cocktail shaker. Shake well, then strain into a cocktail glass. 

This cocktail comes in many variations, from adding strawberries to grapefruit peel. “It’s completely up to you. If you’re a fan of berries, you can infuse them,” says Gurung. “At our bar, when creating drinks we try to go with whatever fruit is in season, for the freshest taste.”

Gimlet 

“There are a few classic gin cocktails. One drink on our menu is inspired by the Gimlet, which is made with gin , citrus and syrup.” 

How to make it: Mix 50ml of gin, 50ml of lime syrup or cordial and a handful of ice in a tumbler. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a slice of lime.

“Another great gin-based cocktail is the Last Word,” adds Gurung. “It really depends on your preference, whether you like sweet or sour.”

Bloody Mary 

“If you’re having an afternoon get-together, you can make a good Bloody Mary,” recommends Gurung. “It’s mostly vodka , tomato juice and citrus - all those ingredients are easy to find.” And yes, good company is crucial. “You have to let other people try your creations to get feedback!”

How to make it: Pour 100ml of vodka, 500ml of tomato juice and a tablespoon of lemon juice into a tumbler filled with ice. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce and tabasco, and pinch of black pepper. Strain into a drinking glass with fresh ice, then add a celery stick and a slice of lemon to garnish. 

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