World Gin Day takes place on Saturday June 8; what better excuse to mix up a cocktail or two at home in honour of Mother's Ruin? Whether you want a drink that's long or short, refreshing or sweet, gin is the perfect spirit.

Bramble

One for when you see the first blackberries appearing in the hedgerows. Blackberry liqueur and gin have a natural affinity, more so than cassis and gin.

INGREDIENTS

40ml gin

10ml sugar syrup

15ml crème de mur (blackberry liqueur)

15ml lemon or lime juice

Blackberries to garnish

METHOD

Pour all the liquid ingredients into a chunky tumbler half filled with ice and stir gently, garnishing with a perfect blackberry or two.

Gin Fizz

My own favourite recipe, many times tried and tested (just to make sure…). The egg makes it silkier and richer, but note it is raw, of course.