Cocktail of the Month: Scrumpy Pitcher

Cider is a seasonal delight, but despite China being the planet’s largest producer of apples, there is precious little of the fruity ale about in Beijing. Each new shipment is met with whoops of delight before rabid hordes quickly quaff the pricey consignment. The Scrumpy Pitcher combines what we do have to fine effect to provide a tasty, crisp cocktail option.

Created for this summer by master mixologist Paul Mathew, it combines Calvados apple brandy, dry New Zealand cider, Grand Marnier, apple juice and lemonade. In creating this seasonal cocktail, Mathew looked to his English childhood for inspiration; he, like most kids, grew up drinking cider, and says that’s the reason for the scrumpy-style kick to the blend.

WHERE TO GET IT
Flamme
Where better to sample the Scrumpy Pitcher than in the lab of the inventor? Paul Mathew serves up the delicious original in a pitcher for two at RMB 99 (RMB 50 during happy hour).

Click here to see the Beijinger August issue in full.

Photo: Sui