Drinks for the summer

Did you know that 40p gives one-person clean water for a year? How about that £20 will sort this for a lifetime? It’s crazy that even today, across the world, 1 in 10 people lack access to clean water, something that we all consider to be a utility and far from a luxury.

Worth over $1 billion in the US and riding a growing trend in the UK, hard seltzer startup (or boozy sparkling water to you and me) Bodega Bay has partnered with The Thirst Project, donating a minimum of 1% of all sales to ensure this issue can be dealt with quickly and effectively.

The hard seltzer with a soft side isn’t just good for others, either. It’s low calorie (only 72 per can), low sugar (4.5g all naturally occurring) and comes in at only 4%, making it perfect for those long picnics in the sun which look set to become the new socially-distanced norm this summer… They’re also gluten free, vegan, natural and delicious with a choice of Elderflower, Lemon & Mint and Apple, Ginger & Açai Berry. They’re also perfect if you fancy something a little stronger. Elderflower pairs perfectly with any white spirits – vodka, gin, tequila – whilst Apple lends its more complex flavours to rums, whiskies and brandies.

Aston spoke to Charlie Markland, founder & alcoholic drinks evolver at Bodega Bay to provide tasting tips, easy cocktail recipes and how to upgrade your summer.