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Cold brew has grown popular in the past decade as people look for smoother and more refreshing coffee variants that are easy on the palate and suitable for the hot weather. Unlike traditional hot coffee, cold brew is made by steeping ground beans in cold water for a longer amount of time, usually between 12 and 18. The result is a concentrated liquid that tastes less acidic and more rounded. This smoothness makes it an excellent base for cocktails. Bartenders and home enthusiasts alike have experimented with combining cold brew with spirits to create balanced drinks. The coffee lends depth, while the alcohol gives energy to the occasion. In India, where temperatures remain high for much of the year, these cocktails feel especially welcome. They can be served at dinner parties, casual gatherings, or simply enjoyed as a treat after a long week.
Understanding Cold Brew As A Cocktail Base
Cold brew differs from regular coffee because the method extracts flavours slowly without heat. The resulting concentrate is less bitter, making it suitable for pairing with spirits like vodka, rum, whisky, and liqueurs such as Kahlúa or Baileys. When used in cocktails, cold brew does not overpower other ingredients but instead blends smoothly. Its natural strength means it can hold its place in both light and strong cocktails.
In India, many cafés and restaurants now serve cold brew in various forms, which makes it easier for home mixers to try their hand at cocktails. Supermarkets in cities like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai stock bottled cold brew, and some roasters deliver concentrates to homes. For those who prefer making their own, the process requires only coarsely ground coffee beans, cold water, and patience. Once prepared, the concentrate can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, giving ample time for experiments with drinks.
Classic Cold Brew Martini
One of the most popular cold brew cocktails is the martini. This drink usually blends cold brew concentrate, vodka, and coffee liqueur. It is shaken with ice to create a frothy top and served in a chilled martini glass. The cold brew gives it a fuller coffee flavour compared with versions that rely on espresso. The vodka keeps the drink crisp, while the liqueur adds sweetness.
In India, this drink has become a regular feature at modern bars and lounges. It appeals to younger audiences who are already comfortable with café-style drinks but also want a touch of glamour in their cocktails. At home, it can be made easily with a shaker or even a tightly sealed jar. The garnish of three coffee beans on top is often said to symbolise health, wealth, and happiness, making it a festive drink for parties and celebrations.
Cold Brew with Rum And Spices
Rum has a strong connection with India, as brands like Old Monk have been household names for decades. When paired with cold brew, the result is a drink that feels both familiar and novel. A simple recipe includes cold brew concentrate, dark rum, a dash of cinnamon, and a touch of sugar syrup. This cocktail carries the warmth of spice while remaining chilled and refreshing.
The pairing works because the caramel notes in rum complement the roasted profile of coffee. Indian kitchens already stock spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, so it is easy to experiment with small additions. For a festive evening, adding a stick of cinnamon as a stirrer not only enhances flavour but also creates a presentable look without much effort.
Cold Brew Tonic For A Lighter Option
For those who prefer lighter drinks, cold brew can be mixed with tonic water and a small measure of gin. The bitterness of tonic balances the smooth coffee, and the gin adds a botanical note that keeps the drink refreshing. This cocktail is served in a tall glass with ice and usually garnished with a slice of citrus fruit.
The appeal of this option lies in its simplicity. It requires only three ingredients, and the result is fizzy and energising. In the Indian climate, where humidity can make heavier cocktails feel overwhelming, this drink provides relief. It is also low in sugar if prepared without syrup, which may interest health-conscious drinkers. Many bars in cities like Mumbai and Goa are starting to feature variations of this drink as part of their summer menus.
Dessert-Inspired Cold Brew Drinks
Cold brew cocktails can also lean towards dessert flavours. A popular choice involves mixing cold brew concentrate with Baileys Irish Cream and a splash of milk or cream. This produces a creamy, indulgent drink that doubles as a dessert for adults. Adding a few cubes of chocolate or a drizzle of caramel syrup can enhance the effect.
For an Indian twist, some bartenders experiment with flavours like coconut milk or even a pinch of cardamom. These additions nod to local tastes while keeping the drink playful. Such cocktails work best at the end of a meal when guests are ready for something sweet but still enjoy the kick of coffee. Hosting with these drinks often leaves a lasting impression, as they feel like a departure from typical desserts or after-dinner coffees.
Cold Brew And Whisky Highball
Whisky pairs well with cold brew because both drinks carry strong flavours that balance each other. A whisky highball made with cold brew, soda water, and ice is straightforward but very effective. The soda lightens the drink while allowing the richness of the coffee and whisky to shine through. Served in a tall glass, it has the strength of a proper cocktail without feeling too heavy.
This combination works nicely for evening gatherings where guests want something smooth yet lively. Indian whisky brands such as Amrut or Paul John can be used for a local connection, and adding a slice of orange peel as garnish gives a refreshing aroma. It is a drink that appeals to those who enjoy whisky but want to try it in a fresh way with the growing cold brew trend.
