We couldn’t let Cake Month go by without introducing you some cake inspired cocktails. And because we’re all about Australian weddings we believe pavlova totally counts as cake! The Ugly Duckling, a beautiful cocktail and wine bar based in Richmond, Victoria was kind enough to reveal the secret to their super popular, sweet and sour Pavlova Fizz.

We think their cosy front bar is a great place to start a relaxed hen’s night or buck’s party (it hosts up to 20 standing for antipasto and vino) or book the entire space –including their leafy, conservatory-style atrium – for an a fizz-fuelled engagement party for 75. Protip: The Ugly Duckling’s regular Wine & Cheese Sundays make serious wedding planning sessions with your beloved or bridal party better (because there’s free cheese with your wine!)

Pavlova Fizz

  • 50ml gin
  • 20ml kiwi syrup
  • 20ml sour apple liqueur
  • 20ml lime
  • egg white
  • soda water
  • granulated sugar, to garnish

Add all ingredients except soda and sugar to your shaker. Dry shake (with no ice) and then wet shake (with ice). Double strain into a highball glass. Top with soda and sprinkle with sugar, then flame the sugar with a kitchen blow torch.

If you can’t get kiwi syrup (The Essential Ingredient and Chef’s Hat both stock it) you could try to make you own!

Blitz four peeled and halved kiwi fruits with 300 grams of white sugar in a food processor. Cover and leave overnight (some liquid should form). Add everything to a small saucepan and simmer until reduced by 1/3. Strain through a fine sieve (and cheesecloth if you have some handy). Cool before use. This syrup is also a nice way to fancy up plain soda for nay of your non-drinking wedding guests.

About The Ugly Duckling: The Ugly Duckling is a contemporary table service cocktail and wine bar. Designed to reflect a high-end residential living space, The Ugly Duckling is intimate yet sophisticated, with a light-filled seating area at the rear and a moody, monolithic bar upon entrance.