Above: Sweetcorn Old Fashioned. Photography: Rob Lawson
Yup, we’re with you, Day of the Dead does sound a tad on the creepy side but don’t dwell on the name too much, this annual event that falls on the 2nd of November is probably one of the most beautiful celebrations of life, past and present, around. Forget anything to do with the commercialism of Halloween, Dia de Muertos, its official name, is one of the biggest days on the Mexican calendar; it’s when its people pay respect to the deceased, and boy, do they do it in style.
This is a celebration remember and in Mexico, that means colour, music and fun. And of course, being the home of tequila, there’s plenty of the good stuff around as well. Which is exactly what’s on the menu at the Art of Patrón x Day of the Dead party. This isn’t some half-hearted affair, Patrón are going all-out by holding Dia de Muertos events on a global scale – some trade-focused, others aimed at consumers – everywhere from Australia to the UK.
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In London it’s taking place at a suitably chic art gallery in swanky Mayfair. And in true Mexican fashion, it’s going to be quite the fiesta. There’ll be live DJs, art performances, make-up artists transforming guests into the iconic La Catrina skull* and of course, a selection of specially created Day of the Dead cocktails. Like we said, Patrón are going for it big time. A fact confirmed by Global Chief Marketing Officer for Patrón Spirits International, Lee Appelbaum: “This year, Patrón is reinforcing its focus on Day of the Dead by coordinating a series of global activations around this traditional holiday. Tequila is one of the most significant gifts Mexico has given to the world, and a key part of an authentic Dia de Muertos celebration”
Matthew Sykes, Director International Marketing for Patrón Spirits International agrees. “The UK’s hero activation will coincide with the execution of Art of Patrón – a global initiative that sees Patrón recruit and engage consumers to showcase the art and craftsmanship behind each and every bottle of Patrón. Blending ultra-premium tequila cocktails and live contemporary Mexican art, Patrón’s Day of the Dead festival helps to showcase our quality, versatility and innovation.”
You heard what the man said, get your tickets now! Book here
Entry costs £15 and includes three cocktails and experimental masterclass. Unit, 3 Hanover Square, London W1S 1HD
Don’t stop the party, recreate the drinks at home:
El Díablo
50ml Patrón Silver tequila
25ml fresh lime juice
150ml ginger beer
10ml Crème de Cassis
Lime wedge for garnish
Method
Combine all ingredients except ginger beer in a cocktail shaker and shake with ice to chill. Strain onto fresh ice in a Collins glass.Top with ginger beer and drizzle Cassis over the top. Garnish with a lime wedge.
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50ml Patrón Reposado tequila
5ml Patrón Citrónge Orange liqueur
20ml lemon juice
5ml sugar syrup
Orange zest for garnish
Sugar rim
Method
Add all ingredients to a shaker. Shake over ice and strain into a Coupe glass.
Panteon Margarita (above)
50ml Patrón Silver tequila
15ml Patrón Citrónge Orange liqueur
20ml Cenpazuchil syrup (or vanilla syrup)
15ml lemon
Garnish with dehydrated blood orange wheel
Method
Add all ingredients to shaker, shake and strain into a wine glass.
Sweetcorn Old Fashioned
50ml Patrón Añejo tequila
15ml caramel sweetcorn syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Orange peel for garnish
Method
Build ingredients in a double old-fashioned glass and stir over ice.
Zest Appeal
50ml Patrón XO Cafe
15ml lemon juice
120ml Ginger Beer (such as Fever Tree)
Mint sprig for garnish
Method
Over ice, add Patrón XO Cafe and lemon juice, top with ginger beer. Garnish with a mint sprig and serve. Optional: Strain into a Patron 375ml bottle.
* Originally known as “La Calavera Garbancera”, La Catrina was created in 1913 by the famous Mexican illustrator and cartoonist, Jose Guadalupe Posado. Always dressed in an elegant hat, feather scarf and mid-century European dress, La Catrina is a representation that “everyone is equal in the end” and is now recognised worldwide.
