A get-together with friends is a precious moment to enjoy, laugh and create memories together. Whether you want to create a relaxed atmosphere or do something special for a specific occasion. In this blog post, we delve into the world of drinks and discover the best options for your next gathering. Whether you are looking for refreshing alcoholic drinks or tasty non-alcoholic alternatives, we offer you insights and inspiration to organize the perfect get-together. Let's discover the ideal drink for your friends' get-together together!
The Classics: Beer and Wine
In this section, we explore two of the most popular beverage choices among the Dutch: beer and wine. Both beverages are not only a pleasure on their own, but can also be perfectly paired with various snacks. Let’s delve deeper into the different types and how they can go with food.
Types of Beer
Lower
Lager is one of the most common types of beer and is known for its light and refreshing taste. It is an excellent choice for a drink.
Sample brands:
- Heineken: A classic Dutch brand that is known worldwide.
- Amstel: Also a popular choice, with a slightly fuller flavour than Heineken.
IPA (India Pale Ale)
IPAs tend to be hoppier and stronger-flavored than lagers, and are perfect for the adventurous drinker looking for something unique.
Sample brands:
- Brewery 't IJ – Zatte: A strong, tasty IPA with a fruity aftertaste.
- Jopen – Hopping: Known for its intense hop aromas and bitterness.
Stout
Stouts are darker and often have coffee and chocolate flavours. They are ideal for the colder months and with sweet snacks.
Sample brands:
- Guinness: World famous and perfect to combine with a dessert.
- Brewery De Molen – Rasputin: A powerful stout with rich flavors.
Types of Wine
Red wine
Red wines are versatile and can range from fruity to robust. They pair well with savoury snacks.
Sample brands:
- Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon: A full-bodied red wine with a hint of blackcurrant.
- Château Lamothe-Vincent Merlot: A soft, accessible wine that goes well with meat dishes.
White wine
White wines are often lighter and refreshing, making them ideal for a summer drink.
Sample brands:
- Gavi of Gavi: A fresh Italian white wine with citrus aromas.
- Chardonnay: Available from various manufacturers, such as Robert Mondavi, with a creamy texture.
Rose
Rosé is a colorful and refreshing choice that goes well with both light and savory snacks.
Sample brands:
- Whispering Angel: A popular French rosé that is perfect for summer.
- The Old Farm Rosé: An affordable yet tasteful option.
Combining Drinks with Snacks
Pairing the right drink with snacks can significantly enhance the taste experience. Here are some tips:
Beer and Snacks
- Lower: Pairs well with salty snacks like chips or pretzels.
- IPA: Pairs perfectly with spicy snacks like jalapeño nachos.
- Stout: Ideal with chocolate or desserts, such as brownies.
Wine and Snacks
- Red wine: Goes very well with a cheese board, especially with hard cheeses such as Manchego or Parmesan.
- White wine: Pairs well with seafood or salads, such as a fresh shrimp salad.
- Rose: Perfect with grilled vegetables or a caprese salad.
Practical Tips for the Perfect Drinks
- Variety: Provide a mix of beer and wine so there is something for everyone.
- Temperature: Serve white wines chilled and red wines at room temperature.
- Glasses: Use the right glass for the drink; a wide glass for red wine and a slimmer glass for white wine and rosé.
- Presentation: Use beautiful platters and plates for serving snacks, which will enhance the overall experience.
By following these guidelines, you are assured of a successful party with a perfect combination of beer, wine and snacks. Enjoy responsibly!
Cocktails for a festive atmosphere
Cocktails are a great way to create a festive atmosphere, whether it’s a birthday, a wedding or a casual get-together with friends. In this section, we explore some classic and trendy cocktails, provide easy recipes and offer tips for making cocktails at home.
Classic Cocktails
Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing cocktail that is perfect for hot days. With its combination of mint, lime, sugar, soda and rum, this cocktail brings a tropical feeling to any party.
Recipe:
- 50 ml white rum (for example Bacardi Superior)
- 30 ml fresh lime juice
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- soda water
- Ice cubes
Preparation:
- Muddle the mint leaves and sugar in a glass.
- Add the lime juice and rum.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes and top up with soda water.
- Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of mint.
Margarita
The Margarita is an iconic cocktail often associated with parties and Mexican cuisine. The combination of tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur creates a delicious balance of sweet and sour.
Recipe:
- 50 ml tequila (for example Olmeca Altos Blanco)
- 25 ml orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
- 25 ml fresh lime juice
- Salt (for the rim of the glass)
- Ice cubes
Preparation:
- Moisten the rim of a cocktail glass with a lime and dip it in salt.
- Add tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice to a shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into the prepared glass.
Trendy Cocktails
Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is the perfect combination of coffee and alcohol. It is a trendy choice for coffee lovers who want to try something unique.
Recipe:
- 40 ml vodka (e.g. Grey Goose)
- 20 ml Kahlua
- 30 ml freshly brewed espresso
- 10 ml sugar syrup
- Ice cubes
Preparation:
- Place all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously and strain into a martini glass.
- Garnish with three coffee beans.
Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a popular cocktail that has gained popularity in recent years. It is a light and refreshing choice that is perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Recipe:
- 90 ml prosecco (for example La Marca Prosecco)
- 60 ml Aperol
- 30 ml soda water
- Ice cubes
- A slice of orange for garnish
Preparation:
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
- Add prosecco, Aperol and soda water.
- Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
Tips for Making Cocktails at Home
- High quality ingredients: Opt for premium brands like Hendrick's for gin or Patrón for tequila to enhance the flavor of your cocktails.
- Freshness is key: Always use fresh ingredients, such as lime and lemon juice. Avoid pre-made mixes where possible.
- Invest in good bar tools: A good shaker, jigger, and muddler are essential for making cocktails.
- Experiment with garnishes: Make your cocktails visually appealing with fresh herbs, fruits or even edible flowers.
Examples of Bartools
| Product | Why choose? |
|---|---|
| Cocktail shaker | For mixing ingredients. |
| Jigger | For accurate measurements. |
| Muddler | For crushing herbs and fruit. |
| Sieve | For a smooth drinking experience. |
By applying these cocktails and tips, you can easily create a festive atmosphere that your guests will definitely appreciate. Cheers!
The rise of non-alcoholic beverages
There has been a noticeable shift in drinking culture in recent years, with non-alcoholic options becoming increasingly popular. This is not only due to a growing number of consumers avoiding alcohol for health reasons, but also a wider acceptance of inclusivity in social situations. This trend has led to a plethora of creative and flavourful non-alcoholic drinks, from mocktails to innovative soft drinks.
Mocktails: the tasty alternatives
Mocktails are non-alcoholic cocktails that offer the same attention to taste, presentation and creativity as their alcoholic counterparts. They are an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a celebratory drink without the effects of alcohol.
Examples of popular mocktails:
- Virgin Mojito: A refreshing mix of mint, lime, sugar and sparkling water. Perfect for a summer day.
- Shirley Temple: A combination of ginger beer, grenadine and a slice of lime, often served with a cherry on top.
- Virgin Piña Colada: A tropical mix of coconut milk, pineapple juice and crushed ice.
Tips for making attractive mocktails:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and citrus fruits enhance the flavor and make the drink visually appealing.
- Play with textures: Add sparkling water or tonic for a sparkling effect.
- Serve in beautiful glasses: Presentation is important. Use stylish glasses and garnish with fruit or herbs.
Soft drinks: more than just sugar water
Soft drinks are often the first choice for non-alcoholic beverages, but the market has much more to offer than just the traditional options. Brands like Fentimans and Schweppes offer a range of craft soft drinks with unique flavours, such as rose lemonade and tonic with botanical extracts.
Characteristics of modern soft drinks:
- Naturally sweet: Brands such as AHA Sparkling Water and Spindrift use real fruit juices for flavor and are often low in calories.
- Herbs and spices: Experimenting with flavors like ginger, turmeric, or lavender can add an interesting twist to traditional sodas.
- Non-alcoholic beers: Brands such as Heineken 0.0 and Clausthaler offer the taste of beer without the alcohol and are an excellent choice for beer lovers.
Other refreshing options
Besides mocktails and soft drinks, there are many other refreshing non-alcoholic drinks available that are perfect for any time of the day.
Examples of alternative drinks:
- Kombucha: Fermented tea that contains probiotics and has a refreshing, slightly sparkling taste. Brands such as GT's Kombucha offer a variety of flavors, from ginger to berries.
- Iced tea: Brands such as Pure Leaf and Snapple offer delicious, unsweetened iced tea varieties that are perfect for warm days.
- Smoothies: Homemade smoothies with a mix of fruits, vegetables and plant-based milk are a nutritious and refreshing option.
Tips for serving non-alcoholic beverages
Good presentation and attractive serving can greatly enhance the experience of drinking non-alcoholic beverages. Here are some tips to make your beverages attractive:
- Use colorful ingredients: Add different types of fruits for a colorful effect.
- Experiment with garnishes: Fresh herbs, edible flowers or colorful straws can enhance the presentation.
- Serve in a decorative carafe: This gives a luxurious look and makes serving easier, especially for larger groups.
Summary Benefits of Non-Alcoholic Options
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Inclusivity | Suitable for everyone, regardless of their drinking preferences. |
| Health | Often lower in calories and sugar, and promotes hydration. |
| Creativity | Encouragement to explore new flavors and combinations. |
| Social involvement | Everyone can participate in the social experience without alcohol. |
In an era where health and wellbeing are paramount, non-alcoholic beverages offer a wide range of options for everyone to enjoy, without the drawbacks of alcohol. Choosing these refreshing options allows for inclusive and enjoyable social experiences.
The perfect choice for a cozy evening
In conclusion, a successful get-together with friends requires a diverse selection of drinks. By offering a combination of classic drinks, trendy cocktails and refreshing non-alcoholic options, you ensure that everyone can enjoy themselves. Don't forget to take into account the preferences of your guests, so that you create an unforgettable experience. Cheers!
