A great new pineapple-based summer cocktail.

Fresh fruit cocktails have to be the ultimate summer bevy, though on consideration Pimm’s might also be included in this elite category. I think it’s the way the sweetness and acidity play off each other that makes them such refreshing emblems of the season.

My latest creation is based on fresh pineapple, and is ideal for a summer party, or solitary sipping as you watch the sun go down.

2 oz citrus vodka

½ oz Grand Marnier

slice of fresh pineapple, aprox 1.5 x 5 inches with core and skin removed

juice of 1/2 lime

1 tps simple syrup or 1 packet Equal

Two well-chilled martini glasses

Cut pineapple into chunks and add to other ingredients in a blender.

Blend for a few seconds till smooth.

Pour into a shaker filled with ice and shake well.

Pour into martini glasses and garnish with a wedge of pineapple.

Don’t worry if it looks like the sort of drink that should be garnished with a parasol, it’s a delicious concoction and healthy too – think of all that fresh fruit.