What I’m Drinking: Summerjulashation
This is sort-of like a Julep in some ways, and like a Smash, and probably identically close to another classic recipes that use a booze, sweetening, crushed ice, and mint that I’m forgetting at this moment. None of that bothers me (does it bother you? Perhaps you’re at the wrong blog?), as the end result no matter what is a super refreshing, slightly spirituous, a wee bit sweet, flavorful icy drink that will make your summer parties sing. It can take some arm power to bust up ice into crushed ice, but you know what? I think you’re tough enough. And as mentioned, the end result is, well, smashing.
Summerjulashation
15 mint leaves, plus a couple mint sprigs
1/2 ounce simple syrup
Ice cubes
1-1/2 ounces gin (I used Bluewater Halcyon organic gin, and it was perfect)
1/2 ounce Pierre Ferrand orange curaçao
Cracked/crushed ice
1. Add the mint leaves and the simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Muddle well.
2. Fill the shaker halfway full with ice cubes. Add the gin and the curaçao to the shaker. Shake well.
3. Fill a goblet or other snazzy glass with the cracked or crushed ice (this is a summer frothy delight, so pack that ice in there).
4. Strain the goods over the ice. Garnish with some mint sprigs. Put your feet up. Drink up.
PS: If you don’t think “Summerjulashation” is the best name for a summer drink ever, well, you suck.
