Cocktail with citrus peel and garnish on a wooden side table beside books and a glowing orange lamp.

Studio Break

The kettle whistles, the pen scratches, and Glasgow hums to life. Outside, smoke drifts softly past the windows, curling into the cool afternoon air. Inside, Sophy sketches by lamplight – a wee cuppa and teacake within reach, her thoughts as vibrant and eccentric as a Saturday at the Barras. 

The Studio Break captures that pause between calm and creation, when Glasgow's adventurous spirit sparks imagination. Ben Lomond Gin mirrors the city's bold, versatile design, and mezcal folds in the soft smoke of its industrial heartbeat. Tea brings the warmth and familiarity of its people, with a touch of lemon and bitters to capture their sharp wit and humour. A bold, smoky, and warming sip of the city's creative soul – the perfect companion for a slow afternoon when ideas begin to stir. 

Ingredients

  • 35ml Ben Lomond Scottish Gin
  • 20ml Mezcal
  • 75ml Lemon Iced Tea
  • 10ml Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 2 Dashes Aromatic Bitters
  • Garnish with Burnt Lemon Peel

Method

Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake gently until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a twist of burnt lemon peel and serve alongside the iconic comfort of a Tunnock's Teacake.

Sophy Louise

Sophy Louise

Illustrator

“The vibrancy of Glasgow is in every illustration I create, every colour I choose, every line I draw. There's humour in the city if you're paying attention. Which I love. That's Glasgow's adventurous spirit.”

Top Tip

Gently warm the lemon peel over a flame to release the oils, then give it a quick pass through the flame to lightly caramelise the edges before twisting over the drink.