June 9, 2013

Gin & Croquet

A few weeks ago, there was an article in the New York TImes’ Dining and Wine section which talked about gin & tonics, and what the twist on them was for the summer. All of the recipes sounded so delicious, that we decided to have a little get-together to test some of the recipes. We thought, what would go better with gin & tonic than croquet? ginvite

We picked up a few different brands of gin, including Hendricks in its distinctive black glass bottle, and a new brand, The Botanist, from Islay, Scotland, gin 1generally home to single-malt scotches. We prepared garnishes including lemons, limes, grapefruit, mint, cucumbers, and raspberries.

We made some customary foods found at English garden parties, including cucumber sandwiches, smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches, all sans crust, jam tarts, gin3and strawberries and cream. A friend brought Gin & Tonic Cupcakes, which were excellent!

We asked everyone to wear white, which they did.gin4

Some of us even wore hats!
gin5

The croquet game turned rather competitive after about the first two wickets, with much “roqueting” of balls (sending hit balls afar).
 
Everyone’s technique varied, from Karen, who preferred not to put down her drink,

to David I (there were three Davids at the party), who used the classic between the legs technique,

to Lance, who used the classic double-handed golf swing.

Some friends adopted elegant croquet poses, like David II, and others, like Martin, just struck a classic pose.Marina got sent off into the rough and had to chip her way out, while David III, (and his HOT PINK shoes) rolled one right through the wicket.After a few days of storms, due to Tropical Storm Andrea, the weather cleared right in time, and we were rewarded with a clear, cool and sunny afternoon for a party. A fine time was had by all!

19 comments:

  1. What a fun filled occasion. Can't wait to try some of those gins and garnishes. You folks sure know how have a good time. Happy summer!

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  2. So envious! It is still quite cold and not the weather for any outdoor pursuits. But what lovely pics. I adore G&T's as well - do also try sipsmith - it is really delicious - an independent London brewed gin. Goes well with cucumber garnish.

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  3. What a fabulous idea for a summer soiree. I love the menu, the pink shoes, and the invitations! Do you mind if I may borrow your ideas for a party myself?

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    1. Please feel free to appropriate any and all ideas!

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  4. What a splendid gift of a large back yard. Is the house color Ben Moore?

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    1. Not sure what the house colour is... sort of a faded coral.

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    2. Wow, you two know your stuff! It's Benjamin Moore coral reef and tarrytown green.

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  5. What a party!!! So much fun. How were the Martinis--my personal favorite.
    xoxoxo
    Mary

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  6. What a great back yard for a party. Love the all white theme. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com

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  7. I am totally stealing the strawberries presentation. Perfect.

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    1. The whipped cream had vanilla and cinnamon in it.

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  8. Reminds me of playing at a friend's old house on River road, Belle Meade. Older friends of my parents. Handicap was keeping the drink in one hand.

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    1. Belle Meade.. haven't thought about that place for ages! And the handicap is just the thing!

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  9. How was the Botanical Gin? I have been wanting to try it.

    Also, thought you might like this http://americangardenhistory.blogspot.com/2013/06/croquet-in-garden-evolution-of-word.html

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    1. Fascinating history. Thank you.

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