SWEETIESAL

I have been to the Corn Exchange several times but mainly knew it for it's variety of food establishments rather than cocktails, so when I was invited to try out the signature cocktails from 7 of Corn Exchange's Restaurants I was curious to see what was on offer.

We started our Cocktail Tour at Vapiano where we were presented with our score cards to assess the Cocktails on. Scores out of 5 were awarded in the following categories; Taste, Appearance, Individuality and Explanation.

Aperol Spritz at Vapiano

Hailed as an 'Italian Classic', Aperol Spritz is a refreshing mix of Aperol, Prosecco and Soda Water. I have since become OBSESSED with this cocktail as it is just so godamn drinkable in the sunshine!!!

Spiced Pineapple Old Fashioned at Cosy Club

I have a few male friends who LOVE an Old Fashioned and I have always struggled at the thought of drinking a full one as they are VERY alcoholic. The Pineapple Old Fashioned however was so nice and the sweetness of the pineapple made it alot easier to drink!

Here's the recipe - a double shot of Bulleit bourbon, stirred down with Cosy Club's own spicy pineapple syrup and touch of orange bitters.

Cathedral Honey Bees Knees at Alston Bar and Beef

Anything with Gin in it was always going to feature quite highly on my score card and this cocktail was my FAVE!!! Containing just 3 ingredients; Manchester Three Rivers Gin, Manchester Cathedral Honey and Lemon Juice, the Cathedral Honey Bees Knees was absolutely delicious!

The 1837 Bar is really cool - it is Prohibition themed so dark, good music and dare I say it, a bit sexy!!

Caipirinha at Cabana

Next up, (after some water to ensure I didn't get toooooo merry) was the Caipirinha at Cabana. Made from Cachaca (Sugar Cane Rum), Limes and Sugar, this was nice and refreshing and got us ready for the next!

Pina Pho-Lada at Pho

Pina Colada is one of my all-time fave cocktails so I am glad that one was featured! The Pina Pho-Lada was a nice addition to the line up, along with the snacks provided to soak up some of the alcohol as by that point we were getting a little squiffy...

Margaritas at Wahaca

Our penultimate drink was a Margarita at Wahaca. Another refreshing one, the last time I had Margaritas was in Mexico many many years ago and they were just as good!

Pistachio Espresso Martini at Banyan Bar and Kitchen

The Pistachio Espresso Martini was a welcome caffeine kick as the alcohol had started to kick in and that combined with a long day at work meant that I was starting to feel a little sleepy...

Made using Reyka vodka, Tia Maria coffee liqueur and real espresso. Their homemade pistachio syrup finishes the ultimate pick-me-up!

The Verdict

In first place was The Cathedral Honey Bees Knees and joint second place was the Pina Pho-Lada and Pistachio Espresso Martini!

Thank you so much to the Corn Exchange for letting me try all those cocktails - it was a lot of fun and I will definitely be back in for more!