Uncovering Sri Lanka’s Cocktail Secrets with Three Families

You have to try these vibrant cocktail flavourings inspired by Sri Lanka! They're a game changer for your home bar and drinks experience!

The Heart of Sri Lankan Mixology

If you’re anything like me, the thought of combining diverse cultures into your cocktail repertoire excites you. Cocktail creations can often feel repetitive, but Ryan Chetiyawardana—known as Mr Lyan—has partnered with three esteemed Sri Lankan families to introduce an enticing range of flavours that is bound to change the way we think about mixology. Launching in 2025 across the UK, Singapore, and Australia, the flavouring innovations under his new venture called Three Families take cues from traditional Sri Lankan ingredients.

During my recent exploration of global cocktail trends, I stumbled upon Mr Lyan’s approach that combines personal stories and rich heritage with sophisticated taste profiles. It’s clear that he has imbued his upbringing into every bottle—showcasing a modern twist on age-old practices.

From Roots to Recipe: A Collaborative Spirit

This remarkable journey began with Chetiyawardana joining forces with family-run businesses like Rockland Distilleries, Dilmah Tea, and local heritage that spans generations. I found myself captivated not just by the unique flavours available but also by the personal stories woven through this collaboration. The Wijeyeratne family’s Rockland Distilleries recently celebrated a centenary of distilling excellence; their expertise is essential for crafting authentic bitters methods integrated into the new seasoning range.

• The focus on traditional techniques combined with fresh ingredients means these cocktails are as innovative as they are nostalgic.
• Collaborating with Dilhan Fernando’s legacy at Dilmah adds depth and prestige through high-quality tea blends—truly inspiring!

Every time I think about it, I remember the intoxicating aromas from my travels through tropical markets filled with spices and fruits alike. Now imagine translating those memories into cocktails!

The Artistry Behind Each Blend

Three Families isn’t just a collection; it represents a dialogue between past and present in each bottle. Let’s talk about some exquisite mixes:

• Ceylon Sour features calamansi—a small yet aromatic fruit native to Southeast Asia mixed masterfully with tamarind and coriander seed.
• For something truly distinctive, there’s Pettah Market, which harmonizes rambutan (a fruit I fondly recall from summer vacations), jasmine flowers, and arrack—the iconic spirit of Sri Lanka.
• Then there’s Sunset Pekoe, uniting fragrant pekoe tea with earthy turmeric notes complemented by toasted oak,
  brought together in a splendid orchestration reminiscent of comforting evenings sipping tea back home.

Experience Personalisation Like Never Before

What strikes me most is Chetiyawardana’s emphasis on personalization within cocktails—a refreshing departure from rigid recipes! By encouraging drinkers to experiment while engaging our senses fully makes each sip memorable. How exciting is it when you can tailor your drink using such vibrantly crafted flavours?
From lush mangosteen tones in Amethyst Punch to wildflower honey’s sweet essence in Verdant Sinhaya—all offer flexibility without losing their roots or authenticity! Sharing this creative approach among friends invites camaraderie unlike any other—surely something every home bartender should relish!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Three Families unique?

Three Families stands out because it blends traditional Sri Lankan flavors crafted by collaborating families who hold deep-rooted knowledge in distilling teas and herbs into an incredible variety of bitters methods presented here.

Can these flavorings be used beyond cocktails?

Absolutely! These innovative blends work beautifully in culinary dishes as well—from enhancing marinades to adding zest to desserts! Imagine how delightful calamansi could be atop grilled seafood!
and more…
a wider array could lead down paths both familiar yet unexplored!

Photo by Julia Kitolovskaya on Unsplash