Trending Coffee Taste Test Episode 1 | Cold Brew Arnold Palmer & Espresso Tonic

     The way to enjoy coffee continues to evolve. We used to drink a simple cup of coffee with maybe some milk or sugar, something along those lines. With the proliferation of the modern coffee shop providing fancy coffee drinks comes an ever-changing coffee experience. The days of the good ol’ cup of joe are a thing of the past. First came the latte and cappuccino, which are not new drinks by any means, but the customization of traditional drinks ushered in a world of limitless customization. We started adding chocolate, whip cream, caramel, then came the different milk variations to where we are today. You can now visit a coffee shop and get a latte reminiscent of a cocktail with flavors like lavender, cardamom, and pomegranate.

     I don’t know how I feel about this change in coffee culture because I’m a bit of a traditionalist. But change comes whether I’m ready for it or not. So, like to or not, ready or not, here come the coffee cocktails. As we have noticed these coffee trends emerge, we decided to try some for ourselves and show our customers how you can make them at home with various products. Watch the first episode of our latest trending coffee video series, with the focus being summer coffee refreshments. First is the Cold Brew Arnold Palmer. You read that correctly. We mixed cold brew and lemonade. Then, we made an Espresso Tonic which was very refreshing and delicious. Both recipes are simple and easy to make.

Cold Brew Arnold Palmer

• 1 cup of ice
• 2/3 cup lemonade
• 3 oz of cold brew concentrate

     Start with the ice and pour the lemonade. Top off the drink with three ounces of cold brew. If you like traditional Arnold Palmers, we think you’ll love this one. If you want to make it sparkly, use some ginger ale or club soda as well. If you don’t prefer cold brew or don’t have any on hand, use regular coffee. We say this a lot; it’s all about how you like it, so use the lemonade, cold brew, or coffee you want.

Espresso Tonic

     When I first heard of the espresso tonic, I was more than skeptical. When I read the ingredients, I could not understand why anyone would combine those ingredients. But, I can honestly say I was proven wrong. I genuinely enjoyed it. While it was different, it was pretty enjoyable and refreshing. So the next time I entertain, I may offer an espresso tonic to my guests.

     The recipe is pretty simple, and if you don’t have tonic water or don’t like it, substitute it with ginger ale or club soda.

• ½ oz your choice of syrup (we used raspberry)
• Ice
• 8 oz of tonic water
• Double shot of espresso
• Squeeze of lime

To get the right look:

1. Follow the order of ingredients in the recipe.
2. Start with the syrup, then add the ice.
3. Pour in the tonic water and top with espresso shots.

     To get the full flavor, make sure to stir before drinking. I had my doubts about this drink but was pleasantly surprised when I tasted it. The combination of espresso, syrup, and tonic water was refreshing, smooth, and quite flavorful. While I may not drink this for my afternoon cup of coffee, I would order it for a special occasion or offer it to guests.

     All I can say after tasting these drinks is that enjoying coffee has come a long way. But, I wonder what they’ll think of next!