Cocktail of the week: Pomegranate 42

A sweet little red number. Photo / Janna Dixon

This simple twist on a classic Kiwi cocktail takes the edge off a traditionally strong concoction with a bit of sweetness.

Our cocktail expert at Auckland's Red Bar, owner Alex Patterson, has prepared today's cocktail the Pomegranate 42 with his new favourite flavour, pomegranate.

He says of the recipe: "The 42 is one of New Zealand's classic cocktails. Traditionally, it's just vodka, lime and ice. It's quite strong but it was popular in the late 90s. I have been using a lot of pomegranate in my drinks lately so I thought: why not use it to pick up something that was quite traditional and Kiwi and carry it into the new millennium."

What you will need:

45ml 42 Below vodka

A lime

2 tbsp pomegranate seeds

How to mix this cocktail:

Cut the half lime into wedges. Add to a short glass then add the pomegranate. Use a muddler or the end of a French rolling pin to crush the limes and pomegranate seeds. Add the 42 Below vodka to the lime mixture and stir with a spoon, then top with ice and serve.

Tip: Keep your vodka in the freezer for maximum refreshment.