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Summer may be coming in drips and drabs (here in Cape Town, at least), but listen, it’s definitely about to become a scorcher.

When the heat is too much to bear, you’re going to need to stay hydrated and possibly, a little elevated, to deal. And that’s without mentioning the possibly awkward, possibly unbearable seat around the festive family table.

That’s where these fantastically simple and delicious Fitch & Leedes-inspired cocktails come in to save the day.

There is something for everyone in this curated summer sipping collection; from an easy breezy blue number to a zesty Paloma, to a classic Tom Collins and even something non-alcoholic and nature-focused for the more mindful among us.

We’re not here to sweet talk too much – although, you must know that the Fitch & Leedes portfolio of premium mixers delivers a bespoke selection of flavours that complement a variety of spirits. On that note, let’s dive right into the drinks recipes of the season.

First up is the very easy-to-make Blue Breeze, made possible with the Fitch & Leedes Blue Tonic.

 

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In case you didn’t catch that, you’re going to need:

1. 50ml of premium vodka over ice in a tall glass
2. add 50ml of good-quality pineapple juice
3. lastly, pour in a can of Fitch & Leedes Blue Tonic before stirring it all together

See, easy-breezy, pineapple squeezy!

Next is the feisty Paloma cocktail using Fitch & Leedes Grapefruit Tonic.

 

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To make the Paloma, add:

1. 2 shots of supreme tequila over a glass of ice
2. 1 teaspoon of pure honey
3. a squeeze of lime juice
4. topped with Fitch & Leedes Grapefruit Tonic
5. garnish with a wedge or a wheel of fresh grapefruit

Just stunning.

Then we have the classic Tom Collins using the Fitch & Leedes Soda Water.

 

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To make this elegant, citrus-forward Tom Collins, add:

1. 2 shot of that good gin
2. a whole squeeze of lemon juice
3. 1 shot of simple sugar syrup, which you can make with one part sugar and one part water mixed before cooling
4. then just pour in the Fitch & Leedes Soda Water to stir

Now that is refreshing!

Next is the bold and beautiful Dark & Stormy, blending a rich rum with Fitch & Leedes’ zesty ginger ale.

 

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To make this Dark&Stormy, add:

1. 2 shots of any rum – be it white or brown – but just make sure it’s rich!
2. 6 decent dashes of Angostura Bitters
3. a squeeze of lime to balance out the sweetness
4. and then the fine Fitch & Leedes ginger ale before stirring it all together

This drink is one of the most versatile out there!

Last but not least, for the teetotallers and/or animal lovers in the house, the Fitch & Leedes’ new tantalising Pineapple Lemonade has got to be the most NB drink of the summer – and it’s alcohol-free. Well, you can add your spirit of choice if you’re feeling more naughty than nice.

 

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That’s right, the bespoke mixers company, in collaboration with The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), is championing a cause that is close to the hearts of many Saffas: the conservation of the endangered African Penguin.

In a world where environmental challenges are ever-present, community engagement and education are pivotal forces for driving change. That’s why Fitch & Leedes has put its brand behind this meaningful cause, with the launch of its tantalising Pineapple Lemonade.

Every can you buy supports vital conservation efforts for African Penguins.

Take part in preserving the future of these adorable little wobblers through adoption, donations, or simply raising a glass.

Let’s protect these unique creatures before it’s too late—learn more over here.

Right on, summer is now officially loaded and ready.