Inspiration sparked when I went to my local market and discovered they carried a new brand of various simple syrups. A few caught my eye, but one in particular, the blueberry mint. I find most of my inspiration in day to day encounters, so rather than purchasing this item, I knew I could make my own at home. Later that week, I had a friend visit and I wanted to experiment using this syrup with her. I settled on using Empress Gin and revolving the flavors around blueberry, mint, and lemon. Add a little club soda to make this beverage a bubbly, fruity, well-rounded drink to be served at your next gathering!
Serves: 2 Drinks – Prepare Time: 5 minutes +/-
INGREDIENTS:
DANCING QUEEN:
- 2 Ounces Empress 1908 Gin
- 1-1/2 Ounces Limoncello
- 1 Lemon, Juiced
- 2 Ounces Blueberry Mint Simple Syrup (method below)
- 3 Sprigs Mint
- 1 Cup Blueberries
- Club Soda
- Ice
- Sprig of Mint, For Garnish
- Lemon Slice, For Garnish
- Blueberries, For Garnish
DIRECTIONS:
1.) Add ice to either a cocktail shaker or mason jar along with the gin, lemon juice, limoncello, and simple syrup. Shake for 30 seconds, until ice is rounded.
2.) Strain into a glass and top with club soda. Garnish with a lemon slice, a sprig of mint and 3 blackberries skewered onto a toothpick. Enjoy and sip responsibly.
BLUEBERRY MINT SIMPLE SYRUP:
1.) In a large saucepan, add 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white granulated sugar, 1 cup fresh blueberries, and 3 sprigs of mint.
2.) On medium heat, stir mixture until sugar is fully dissolved. Turn down heat to low and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes, smashing the berries as they slowly break down. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain syrup to remove leftover berry skin and wilted mint.
Dinner w/ the Dugans 