CREEPY CRAWLIES - IN YOUR COCKTAILS?
Now don't get us wrong, we're all for trying something new when it comes to cocktails and new drinks on the block, but when we stumbled across this new creation, we weren't too sure whether to ask someone to pass us a bucket, or take the plunge and give it a try!
Critter Bitters are handcrafted cocktail bitters made with toasted crickets. Cocktail bitters are usually considered the salt and pepper of cocktails, and are a bartender's best friend, adding depths of flavour to even the simplest of cocktails.
There are four flavors in the product line: vanilla cricket, cacao cricket, toasted almond cricket, and - for the even more adventurous - pure cricket. Each flavor has a unique taste profile, and can be readily mixed into cocktails or enjoyed with soda water.
But why bugs? Seriously?
The cocktail bitters have been created to get people over the "ick" factor of eating insects, and whats-more, according the UN FAO, eating insects is the first viable solution to the world's impending food shortage. Crickets are also a great source of fat, protein, vitamins, fiber and minerals - and they have minimal environmental impact. Seeing as two billion people across 80% of the world already eat over 1,000 different kinds of insects - why shouldn't we all get on board?
Would you splash a dash of cricket in your Cosmopolitan? Or a few drops in your espresso martini? We're still not sure, but Critter Bitters could definitely give us the liquid courage we need to spark our own insect-eating traditions.
If you're not too keen on adding bugs to your cocktails, we're here to help with some of the more classic beverages. From hiring our pop up bar, to cocktail making, get in touch with us today.
Alcohol Advent Calendars for 2018
Is it even the festive season if you're not trying to find any excuse to celebrate with a drink? With the office parties, work-do's, and catching up with all your favourite friends, being merry definitely goes hand in hand with Christmas time.
So, what better way to get into the festive spirit(s), than with a boozey advent calendar? We wouldn't recommend opening in the morning - so save until after work for the ultimate treat, because the kids shouldn't get all the fun!
Here are our favourites that'll definitely put the 'Merry' into 'Merry Christmas':
One for the gin lover is Sainsbury's first Christmas advent calendar, and it looks absolutely beautiful. Expect premium gin brands like Hendricks, Opihr and Tanqueray, as well as flavoured options such as Sipsmith in lemon drizzle flavour, (yes please!)
Sainsbury's, £60 – available in store now.
More on the pricey side - but definitely worth it - is this festive number from John Lewis. This boozey calendar contains 24 bottles of prosecco and cava to get through from a range of delicious brands. What's more – there's a 20cl Lanson Champagne to glugg on Christmas Eve, too. That's a winner in our books!
John Lewis, £125.
Christmas isn't all about mulled wine, so spare a thought for the beer lovers. For the hoppy fans, we've included this awesome beer advent calendar with a range of offerings from IPA to stout, alongside the big names in the craft beer Brewdog and Magic Rock. Cheers to that!
Laithwaite's, £49.99.
Finally, for those who really want to warm their cockles this Christmas, why not pick up the world's best-selling whisky Advent calendar? Enjoy a 30m; dram every day in the run-up with some of the world's most exciting distilleries, including Glenfarclas, Nikka, and Hudson.
Masters Of Malt, £149.94
Which one would you choose? Remember, for all your Christmas event needs, we're here to help. Contact us here for more information.
Cocktail of the Week: Espresso Martini
It’s rich, indulgent, creamy, and the shot of espresso will make sure you keep up with your work mates if you find yourself flagging at the office Christmas do. It could only be one classic, and most definitely one of our favourites; the Espresso Martini.
In 1984 a top model came into the famous late bartender Dick Bradsells bar with a rather special cocktail request. She asked for something sophisticated, edgy and strong - and so the famous Espresso Martini was born. The rest is history and today it is one of the most popular, and classy cocktails.
As a drink, it’s deliciously confusing – coffee and vodka just shouldn’t be allowed to taste this good together, but it does! The liqueur has a sweetness, the espresso gives it a rich depth, and the vodka delivers that essential kick to get your evening going. All topped off - of course - with the thick, luxurious, foam that sits at the top of the glass.
Want to know how to make your own at home? See below our simple - but delicious - recipe.
What you'll need:
A handful of ice
25ml vodka
35ml Kalhua, Tia Maria, or similar
35ml fresh espresso
Coffee beans, to garnish
How to make it:
Chill your martini glasses in the freezer for at least 20 minutes before serving. Put the ice in a cocktail shaker, followed by the vodka, liqueur and lastly the coffee. Taste and add a little more liqueur if you prefer it sweeter and then shake for 20 seconds. Lastly, strain into your chilled glasses, top with 3 coffee beans, serve immediately, and let your evening begin!
If - like us - you love a good cocktail, and are planning an event on the larger scale, email us at hello@wordpress-1172833-4103133.cloudwaysapps.com or give us a call on 02920 101 562 .
5 HOT cocktails worth trying this autumn!
Are you feeling autumnal (but not the cold that comes with it)? We are all guilty of complaining about the heat in summer and then complaining when it ends. Whether you embrace or dread the woolly jumpers and frosted mornings, these hot cocktails will welcome you into the colder months with warmth. They are the perfect mix between a well-earned beverage and a mug that warms not just your hands, but your soul too. These cocktails will impress your mates for a Friday night in or simply keep you company for a cosy evening on the sofa.
1. The go-to Hot Toddy
An absolute classic, with slightly unclear origins but likely as a product of British imperialism in India in the 19th century. The British took this hot cocktail on for the same purpose you’re reading this blog right now – to keep warm against the elements (while ensuring there’s still alcohol involved)!
Ingredients:
- 240ml hot water
- 1 tea bag
- 2 shots (60ml) of whiskey (bourbon, whiskey, or even rum work!)
- 1 tbsp. honey
- 1 tsp. lemon juice
- 1 lemon slice
- 1 cinnamon stick
Method:
- Pour hot water into mug and steep tea for two to three minutes.
- Remove tea bag and add honey, whiskey, and lemon juice.
- Stir.
- Garnish with lemon slice.
- Enjoy!
Source: Town and Country Mag
2. Hot Choc with a kick
This one will stop you feeling quite so CHILLI… enjoy a take on the age-old guilty pleasure, a childhood favourite now exclusive to the over 18s. This spiced red wine hot chocolate is a definite winter warmer.
Ingredients:
- 1 Cup Red Wine
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Marshmallows for topping
The method for this one is super easy, minimal effort required! Mix all the ingredients together in one big pot, heat it on the hob (don’t let it boil) until steam rises, then Bob’s your uncle, you’ve got yourself a tasty treat to warm your up on a frosty evening. One of our favourite hot cocktails!
Source: Afternoon Espresso
3. Pumpkin Pillow
Rest easy with the Pumpkin Pillow, this one's for Halloween! It’ll help to calm your nerves on this spooky night. With a recipe that’s easy to increase and make in batch, there is plenty to share. While an acquired taste, this hot cocktail will surprise your taste buds with its sweet and creamy finish.
Ingredients:
- 1 shot Drambuie
- 45 ml pumpkin puree
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- 120 ml steamed whole milk (or choice milk-base)
Method:
Steam milk, pumpkin puree and spices together until hot. Double-strain into cup. Stir in Drambuie. Top with additional milk foam and ground nutmeg.
4. The Doctor’s Orders
This one helps to sooth a sore throat and to fend off the symptoms of a cold, but also lets you indulge in an alcoholic drink. A proper comfort hot cocktail and just what the doctor ordered!
Ingredients:
- ¼ shot Bache-Gabrielsen American Oak cognac
- 1 large tsp honey
- 8ml simple syrup
- Juice of half a lemon
- Hot water
- Cloves (optional)
The method is rather simple, which is perfect if you are feeling slightly under the weather! Just mix all the ingredients together, add the hot water and the cloves if you fancy.
5. Be At One’s Shoreditch Sangria
Okay, admittedly this isn’t a hot cocktail BUT if you want to keep summer alive while embracing winter, we highly recommend Be At One’s Shoreditch Sangria. It combines the taste of fruity summer sangria with winter spices and is absolutely divine. The wacky mix of red wine and gin may sound unusual, yet it works a treat and is guaranteed to get your head spinning (in a very good way).
Ingredients:
- 4 shots of Plymouth Sloe gin
- 1 bottle of Malbec wine
- 1 Pomegranate
- Spiced Pear
- Sliced Orange
- 1 cup of Blackberries
- 3 cups of Angostura bitters
Method:
This recipe makes 6-8 cups of sangria.
- Pour the wine into a large pitcher, squeezing the juice form the orange into the wine.
- Add in all fruit (minus the blackberries) and the gin. Leave to chill overnight.
- To serve, add in the Angostura bitters and the berries.
- Enjoy!
Source: Be At One
Hands up if you want some hot cocktails!
If we've inspired you with these hot cocktails and you're planning an autumn or winter event, why not contact us today to find out more!
Author: Bronwyn Wheatley
5 must try drinks in Cardiff this September
We can all get stuck in our ways with our choices of drinks, why go for something different when you know you'll enjoy a classic G&T no matter where you are. However, we have decided to mix things up a little and have devised a shortlist of 5 new drinks that we believe you should try this September, all of which are in Cardiff- right on our doorstep!
Rhubarb and Custard
Where: The Flora, Cathays
What: Absolut vodka, Adovocaat, rhubarb syrup, fresh lemon and vanilla syrup.
Why: A drink to take you back to your childhood. The combination of the adovocaat and rhurbarb syrup means The Flora has nailed the flavours of this popular sweet. Whilst this is a sweet drink, the vodka and lemon add the perfect tang so not to make it too sickly. Seriously good retro cocktail.
The Italian Dragon
Where: The Dead Carnary, Cardiff
What: Campari Cask Tales, Coconut infused Beefeater gin, Byrrh, lemon and egg white.
Why: A real cocktail to celebrate Joe Calzaghe. Combining bitters with lighter, coconutty flavours and egg white makes this cocktail deliciously unique. It is a whirlwind combination of flavours which is only fitting for The Italian Dragon.
Stay Puft
Where: Tiny Rebel, Cardiff
What: Marshmallow porter, 5.2%.
Why: The perfect sweet treat for an autumnal evening. This porter has all the roasty qualities of a classic dark ale, but the marshmallow flavours give a real sweetness. Whilst it is sweet, the malts and hops make sure to keep the earthy notes of a dark ale. This drink is out to get your tastebuds.
Stars and Stripes
Where: The Cambrian Tap, Cardiff
What: An American wheat beer, 5.0%.
Why: Refreshingly and deliciously drinkable. Having been brewed with Californian Ale yeast and wheat malt, this beer is a hazy golden colour and has a crisp bitterness. Brains Craft Brewery describes Stars and Stripes to have 'aromas of grapefruit and tropical fruit combined with citrus flavours.' Light, crisp and bitter.
Teaches of Peaches
Where: Lab 22, Cardiff
What: Portobello Road Gin, Aperol, Cocchi Americano, White Peach Blossom Cordial, Orange Bitters, Soda.
Why: Think Aperol Spritz meets Liptons Iced Tea meets Sex on the beach. Lab 22 never do disappoint with their cocktail mixology and flavours, and Teaches of Peaches is no different. The flavours of this cocktail are elegant and delicate whilst delightfully peachy.
We may have given you some great new drinks to try, but everyone has their drink of choice. Here at Pop Up Bar Hire, we can help you tailor your bar to your own personal preferences for your event, party or wedding. Contact us today to discuss details further.
Author: Georgie Dransfield
10 Reasons to be a Rugby Supporter
The Autumn Internationals are fast approaching and soon to be kicking off in Cardiff, London and across the globe. So what better time to become a rugby supporter. Whilst we know you won't need much persuading, we've produced 10 reasons why you should.
1. The Songs
No matter who you support, whether it is Wales, England, Ireland or South Africa, there will be a suitably naff and yet an ever so charming song which will be sung at the top of each supporters voice for the entire duration of the game. Any of these inconic tunes are ideal when you're already 4 pints deep.
2. Nationalism
There are plenty of sports which ignite a level of nationalism within its supporters and fans, but none do so as much as rugby. When the British Isles meet on the rugby pitch, you will never have seen such nationalism spread through each of the supporters. Scotland may well have chosen to remain as part of England and the UK, but you wouldn't know it from their fans.
3. Points
We've all watched football games which have finished 1-0, or even 0-0. Rugby creates some of the most nail-biting games; even the biggest leads can be caught up in no time.
4. The Players
The players obviously make the game. They know what they have got to do, and they get on and do it. Their whole attitude is wonderfully refreshing.
5. Atmosphere
There really is nothing better than stepping into the electric atmosphere of a rugby game, particularly when the game is held in some of the most iconic venues in the world. Whilst the Autumn Internationals will be played in world-class venues, other games played in smaller venues are just as exciting.
6. The Passion
Passion is certainly one of the defining characteristics of rugby; both players and supporters alike live and breathe the game. Be part of it.
7. Camaraderie
Team camaraderie for both players and supporters is something you cannot replace. If you support England, but live in South Africa, you'll be embraced as one of England's own as soon as you get together - there is no discrimination and it is forever inclusive. Solidarity in camaraderie.
8. The Respect
Players have the upmost respect for each other, as well as the referee. Whilst the rivalry is heated, no-one oversteps the line. This transfers over to the supporters too, there is banter and rivalry, but each supporter respects the competition and embraces the healthy rivalry.
9. The Tackles
Let's face it, this is what sets rugby apart from football, and many other sports. Whilst the tackles may make you wince, you can't look away.
10. The Drink
A rugby game would not be the same without the copious amount drunk in the name of the sport. Rugby supporters are well renowned for their ability to drink. Whilst some supporters can sink 10 pints no problem, it is not all about drinking yourself silly - the social aspects which come with drinking during a game can't be beaten.
Here at Pop Up Bar Hire, we're excited to be inviting the Autumn Internationals back to Cardiff for another year. In need of a relief bar? Contact us today, we have everything you might need for the Autumn Internationals.
Author: Georgie Dransfield
Wedding Venue Planning
There are many things that you must consider when planning a wedding, one of the most important is the venue. The venue itself will set the tone for the entire day, and it is certainly something you will want to remember fondly. Pop Up Bar Hire have come up with a list of pros and cons for the most popular venue options.
Marquee Wedding Venue
Marquee venues are a complete blank canvas for both bride and groom, meaning that you have the flexibility to tailor the venue to your exact vision.
Pros:
- Can make it what you want - decor, size, layout
- Can offer a really big space for larger weddings
- Unique location
- The wedding can go ahead come rain or shine
- Hand picking the bar - this means you can tailor it to your own personal tastes. This is exactly what Pop Up Bar Hire is able to offer! We can advise you on the best drinks to have, as well as ensuring the whole bar is fully stocked and staffed
- Choosing the catering - get the food you want for your big day! Why not head over to Street Food Warehouse if you're going for a festival vibe (or just love street food) - they can sort out any kind of street food vendor.
Cons:
- Whilst marquees can be successful all year round, they are most successful during Spring and Autumn - air conditioning is very expensive, whilst heating can be hit and miss
- Hiring of other facilities such as tables and chairs, lights, dancefloor, toilets (depending on where it is located)
- In general, more organisation has to go into a marquee wedding because you have to find a caterers and bar hire, among other facilities. However, at Pop Up Bar Hire we do all the leg work for you, ensuring that the bar side of the wedding at least, runs smoothly
- It is likely the wedding itself will take place outside which could be problematic due to the UK weather (however, there are indoor options available in many locations)
- There many not be a huge amount or any accommodation available for your guests
Barn Wedding Venue
A barn as the wedding venue offers a rustic charm with beautiful surroundings and many venues are able to offer extra space for bigger wedding parties or even accommodation.
Pros:
- Location and surroundings can be truly breathtaking
- A smaller and more private venue which means exclusive hire is more likely to be an option
- Minimal decoration is needed as the barn itself still looks gorgeously rustic
- This venue can be cheaper overall than the marquee option because more often than not, you can get a package deal with regards to food and drink, plus you don't have to think about all the extras such as, lighting, tables, chairs etc.
- Works with all weather conditions - perfect for the UK
Cons:
- Whilst some barn venues might offer enough accommodation, this is not guaranteed so can result in a lot of travel for guests (and even yourself) to the nearest hotel
- Difficult to access if it's in a particularly rural location
- Less flexibility with regards to food and drink options
- Make sure to ask about toilet facilities and facilities in general as some only provide porta-loos, and have only basic food prep and cooking facilities
- The majority of barns don't have the best heating/air conditioning, so this should be taken into consideration when choosing time of year, particularly for the unpredictable UK weather
Hotel Wedding Venue
Hotel weddings are becoming more and more popular because they offer package deals. Hotels can produce large (and small) package weddings which include everything from accommodation to catering and the bar. In short, the venue takes care of everything so you can relax (a bit more).
Pros:
- Every single aspect of your wedding is executed both efficiently and professionally
- Well established hotel venues have amazing reputations which means you really can put all your trust in them to pull off your perfect wedding
- Accommodation for yourself and your guests (particularly those who have travelled far) will almost always be available
- Offering package deals means that a hotel wedding can be the answer for those who have a specific budget
- Staff will be very experienced so you can rely to ensure your wedding runs without a hitch
Cons:
- Significant lack of flexibility - they many only work with certain vendors or only offer a couple of menu choices or restrictions on table layout etc
- There can be hidden costs
- Lacks uniqueness - if you're someone who has always dreamed of having that unique wedding everyone will forever remember, a hotel might not be the venue for you
- Whilst they can be great for people on a budget, they can also be significantly more expensive - particularly those well sought after venues
Country House Wedding Venue
Similar to a hotel, a country house as a wedding venue has become another very popular choice. This type of venue is ideal if you're wanting that more formal atmosphere, but have more control over the wedding details.
Pros:
- More flexibility than hotels to create your dream wedding
- Exclusive hire of the venue means that it'll only be you and your guests in the venue so it feels more intimate
- Beautiful location, surroundings and building
- Accommodation can be part of the package deal
- Still offer package deals which means everything will be taken care of for you
Cons:
- This type of venue is expensive, be prepared to shell out a significant amount if your heart is set on it
- Depending on the size of the venue, accommodation might not be available. Similarly, if your wedding party is too small, then you may not get exclusive access to the venue
- Can be difficult to find or access for guests
A few things you should consider no matter what type of venue you are going for:
- The number of guests - the larger the wedding, the more expensive it will be
- Location - take into consideration how far your guests are having to travel
- Availability - keep your options open, your dream venue might not be available
- Accommodation - is it included? If not, then how are you going to accommodate people?
- Parking - seems mundane but it is so important, is there parking? If so, is it private? Is it included in the price? Is it safe? How far away is it from the venue and/or accommodation?
- The Bar - is there one? Pop Up Bar Hire offer a variety of different bars perfect for weddings without one.
Author: Georgina Dransfield
The Welsh Street Food Awards
We have teamed up with Street Food Warehouse and British Street Food to collectively bring The Welsh Street Food Awards to Milford Haven this weekend (18th-19th August). Look out for the marquees along the Milford Waterfront.
So what's all the fuss about?
The best traders from up and down Wales will be fighting it out to win the vote of the judges - and the general public - at the first ever Welsh leg of the awards. At stake? A place in the British Street Food Awards finals and the chance to represent Britain in the European Street Food Awards finals in Berlin. We are excited to see what all these Welsh street food vendors have to offer. It is going to be a hard task making that all important decision, particularly when all the vendors look and sound so scrumptious.
What can you expect?
Landing at the Milford Waterfront will be more than a dozen tasty traders. From full-to-the-brim calzone, Welsh beef brisket and Venezuelan arepas to fresh pasta and hot fried doughnuts, the line-up is looking seriously tasty. To accompany all this wonderfully delicious food, we have got our full bar ready and stocked with everything from Birra Moretti to Pimms to mojitos to soft drinks - we will have something for everyone, both big and small. Not only this, we have once again teamed up with Tenby Harbwr Brewery to bring you their great selection of craft ales. Having previously partnered up with them at Pembrokeshire Street Food Festival in Tenby earlier in the summer, we had to bring them on board for this final exciting event of the summer.
This event is set to be a big one for everyone involved, do not miss out! Head down to Milford Waterfront either the 18th or 19th August between midday and 10pm each day.
For more information head to Street Food Warehouse, and why not register for your free tickets whilst you are at it, this will ensure that you're guaranteed entry at peak times.
Whilst we at Pop Up Bar Hire are pretty busy this weekend, if you are planning an event, wedding or party, we can help organise, stock and staff your bar, so get in touch today.
Author: Georgie Dransfield
Cocktail of the Week: Passionfruit Mojito
The passionfruit mojito: a tropical and fun cocktail perfect for BBQs and summer parties (and even winter ones). The passionfruit mojito is for those who love the light and refreshing tang of a traditional mojito but also want to experiment with fruity flavours.
Traditionally, mojitos are made with a white rum, and for a classic mojito this should definitely remain so. However, we have found that using a spiced rum really adds that extra something to the overall flavour, particularly paired with the passionfruit. It is of course your own personal preference, so maybe try this cocktail both ways and see what you prefer.
For those who you who are keen mixologists, we would advise using the pulp and juice of a real passionfruit to add that real passionfruit flavour. However, some of you who are looking for something a little simpler and less time consuming. This is where the passionfruit syrup comes in, widely available at many larger supermarkets, and the answer to the perfect cocktail in less than half the time.
Ingredients:
50ml white or spiced rum (personal preference)
20ml passionfruit syrup or real passionfruits (2 per drink)
Mint (2-3 full sprigs per drink plus extra for garnish)
Ice (crushed or cubed)
Fresh limes cut into segments
Soda water or lemonade
(If you're feeling particularly fancy, add some real passionfruits for garnish.)
How to make a Passionfruit Mojito (using passionfruit syrup):
First muddle together the fresh limes (3/4 segments) and mint in a drinking utensil of your choice, add 20ml of passionfruit syrup. Add the ice and soda water (or lemonade) and stir. Top with mint and/or passion fruit seeds for garnish.
This is just one of our many cocktails which we offer at Pop Up Bar Hire, for our full menu and more information regarding parties, events and weddings, email us at hello@wordpress-1172833-4103133.cloudwaysapps.com or call us on 02920 101 562 .
Cocktail of the Week: Kir Royale
The Kir Royale, a champagne cocktail which just has that little bit more. It is sophisticated, elegant and o-so-delicious. It is the perfect addition to any cocktail party, dinner soiree or Friday night. Just like many champagne cocktails, the trick is to keep them as simple as possible, so as cocktails go, it is probably one of the easiest yet most effective.
Just in case you are not familiar with Crème de Cassis, it is a liqueur made from blackcurrants, and it is delightfully fruity. You can buy Creme de Cassis at pretty much any supermarket, although larger shops will be more likely to stock it than smaller express ones. Whilst everyone appreciates good champagne, you need not spend huge amounts on the bubbly due to the fact the crème de cassis is such a prominent flavour.
So kick back and enjoy the wonderful simplicity.
The Ingredients:
20ml Crème de Cassis
80ml Champagne (Prosecco can also be used if desired)
Fruit to garnish
How to make a Kir Royale:
This is a tough one. First add the crème de cassis to the champagne flute (or other drinks utensil of your choice), then top up with champagne/prosecco. If you want that extra something, garnish with fruit of your choice. We can recommend: Raspberries, pomegranate or blackcurrants. The Kir Royale is just as lovely with no added fruit.
Here at Pop-Up Bar Hire we can help stock, organise and run your bar, so whether you are planning your next cocktail soiree, private party or larger event, contact Pop-Up Bar Hire today for more information.