Empress Gin is by far one of my favorite liquors to experiment with. The stunning color morphs any drink into a magical masterpiece. This drink is no exception. Not only does it have a beautiful vibrant pink hue, the flavors come together to create something really special. Notes of grapefruit, basil, cucumber, and lemon create a cocktail you won’t want to stop sipping.
Serves: 1 to 2 Drinks – Prepare Time: 10 minutes +/-
INGREDIENTS:
ROYAL SQUEEZE:
- 2 Ounces Empress 1908 Gin
- 1 Lemon, Juiced
- 1.5 Ounces Basil Lavender Simple Syrup (method below)
- 1.5 Ounces Grapefruit Juice
- 2 Cucumber Slices
- Ice
- Cucumber Slices, For Garnish
- 1-2 Small Basil Leaves, For Garnish
DIRECTIONS:
1.) In a cocktail shaker, add gin, lemon juice, grapefruit juice, cucumber slices, and basil lavender simple syrup. Muddle cucumber slices into drink. Fill halfway with ice and shake for 30 seconds, until ice is melted and rounded.
2.) Pour into chilled stemless wine glasses and garnish with cucumber slices and basil leaves. Enjoy and sip responsibly!
BASIL LAVENDER SIMPLE SYRUP:
1.) In a large saucepan, add 1/4 cup of water, 1/4 cup of white granulated sugar, and 5 large basil leaves. Add 1 drop of lavender essential oil (make sure it’s edible! I use doTERRA oils).
2.) On medium heat, stir mixture until sugar is fully dissolved. Turn down heat to low and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ripping apart the leaves as they wilt. Remove from heat, strain, and let cool.
Dinner w/ the Dugans 