In line with the upcoming Lunar New Year festivities, we’ve matched cocktails from some of our favourite Hong Kong haunts with each Chinese zodiac. Check out our list and get ready to find a new favourite based on your birth sign.
Rooster
Known to be straightforward and full of confidence, Rooster babies need to try the Commissary’s Firecracker cocktail. It’s definitely something to spice up the beginning of the year, with a mixture of mezcal, Ancho Reyes, mandarin, lime and spices that match the soul of those born in this auspicious year.
Dog
Those who are born in the Year of the Dog are known to be sweet, loyal and faithful. The Old Man’s Little Wax Puppy beverage (made with beeswax-infused Michter’s small-batch bourbon with eucalyptus honey and bitters) is our top pick to match this zodiac sign – the name of the cocktail is a bonus too.
Pig
Intelligent, curious, and just plain old nice: just some of the traits for folks born in the Year of the Pig. Gaucho’s Apple Fujian mocktail is a mix of apple juice, elderflower cordial, cucumber and Chinese Jasmine Tea, all ingredients that are made to be enjoyed by this zodiac. Case in point, the apple has always been a symbol for knowledge – and it’s a mocktail, for those trying to play nice.
Rat
The Year of the Rat represents exploration and unexpected surprises; that’s exactly what the Old Man has concocted with the Snows of Kilimanjaro drink. This intense liquid libation is made with marshmallow gin, lacto-fermented raspberry and gruyere, and is definitely a unique blend that matches this out-of-the-ordinary star sign to a tee.
Ox
This Chinese Zodiac is all about hard work, with people born in this Year often seen to be strong and authoritative. Morton’s State Street Manhattan is a cocktail that mixes the savoury with the sweet, thanks to Woodford Reserve bourbon and Carpano Antica vermouth, which is infused with Luxardo cherries and orange peel. To top it off, you’ll get a slice of New York steak as a garnish. Just like the Ox zodiac, this one is straight-up strong and to the point.
Tiger
Those born in the Year of the Tiger know how to get what they want. This Year represents passion and fire, and VEA Restaurant & Lounge’s Red Remedy – which includes Bols genever, tomato cordial, watermelon and pickled cucumber juice, basil, and soda water –may just be the perfect drink to ignite the fiery spirit of Tiger folk.
Rabbit
Year of the Rabbit babies are said to be popular, compassionate and sincere. Aberdeen Street Social’s Jardine’s Garden cocktail is made out of complex Tanqueray gin, Metté asparagus eau de vie, cucumber, lime juice and basil syrup. It’s a G&T with an edge; something that everyone is set to like and the ultimate drinks equivalent to the Rabbit zodiac.
Dragon
As powerful as this sign is, the energy and warm-hearted characteristics of people born in the Year of the Dragon will always give them a life full of colour and spice. Ho Lee Fook’s Sichuan Spiced Sour lives up to its name by blending Kavalan and Talisker whisky with lemon and honey, and a strong taste of Sichuan pepper. Dragons, drink up.
Snake
Said to be utterly unpredictable, those born in the Year of the Snake are bound to enjoy Lily & Bloom’s Pandan Grasshopper creation, with ketel one vodka, branca menta, creme de cacao, pandan and coconut. It’s a brilliant blend of ingredients that’s thoroughly unexpected.
Horse
If you’re born in the Year of the Horse, chances are you love to be social and roam free – especially outside. Rhoda’s Lucky Shrub cocktail is a combination of London dry gin, beetroot, red wine vinegar, and honey, and is made to give a taste of the great outdoors. If you’re a Horse zodiac, we think you’ll love it.
Sheep
Born in the Year of the Sheep? We’re guessing you sometimes enjoy being alone with your thoughts. Lily & Bloom’s English Milk Punch definitely leaves a whole lot of room for your mind to wander, thanks to the intoxicating addition of pernod absinthe, Hennessey V.S.O.P. cognac and plantation original dark & overproof rum.
Monkey
Always thriving for fun, those who are born in the Year of the Monkey won’t be able to resist Jinjuu’s White Negroni. It’s made with Hwayo 41, gentian root liqueur, Cocchi Americano, mandarin bitters and orange zest ice ball, and is guaranteed to get you ready for a night of serious adventures.
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