After several weeks of arduous testing sessions, we have finalized our 2012 summer cocktail. The Lavender Lush was created with fresh lavender sprigs to infuse a simple syrup.
We usually make a few pitchers of the citrus-ade and then dose the drinks individually with either Vodka or Gin. Beware, these tasty creations go quickly, so be sure to prepare the mixtures in advance.
Yield: 1 pitcher
Ingredients:
Simple Syrup
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
8-10 lavender sprigs
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup fresh orange juice
1 cup fresh lime juice
2-3 cups water
1 cup lavender simple syrup
sugar, for rim
orange wheels, for garnish
vodka or gin, chilled
Directions:
For the Lavender Simple Syrup:
Place water, sugar and 8-10 lavender sprigs in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat, and let stand 30 minutes. Pour liquid through a wire-mesh strainer, saving the lavender. Cover and chill 4 hours.
For the Citrus-Ade:
Mix the first 5 ingredients together in a pitcher along with the reserved lavender sprigs. Add more or less sugar for desired sweetness. Chill.
Set up two small saucers, one with a little of the juice mixture and one with a fine sugar. Dip the rim of each glass in the juice, then coat each rim with sugar. Fill glasses with ice and a shot of chilled vodka or gin. Add juice and stir. Garnish with an orange wheel and serve.