Recipes 375

The spritz cocktail, which traces its roots back to 19th-century Northern Italy, has evolved from a summer favorite to a year-round drink. With the traditional recipe featuring Aperol, Prosecco, and soda, this cocktail is now being adapted for fall and beyond. Featuring a flexible 3-2-1 build that combines bubbly, liqueur, and club soda, it allows for creative variations perfect for different seasons.

JoJo Fletcher, co-founder of Saint Spritz, underscores the drink’s rise in popularity. People today crave light, refreshing cocktails that enhance social experiences, ideally suited for daytime gatherings or casual brunches. This shift embraces the aperitivo culture—enjoying a refreshing drink with friends before dinner—which has gained traction in the U.S. in recent years.

Marshall Dawson from Gallo Winery notes that the spritz not only offers flavor but also an experience that is less heavy on the stomach. The cultural rituals surrounding aperitif hour and socializing at home have contributed to its appeal.

The spritz has seen numerous modern adaptations, moving beyond the classic combination of Prosecco and Aperol. For instance, floral flavors are gaining popularity. Mixologist Rafaela Francisco highlights the emerging elderflower and limoncello spritzes, which provide a lighter taste compared to traditional bitters. Similarly, the Sarti Spritz, made with the fruity Sarti Rosa liqueur, is attracting attention for its distinct sweetness.

Locations such as American Social in Florida are now serving the Sarti Spritz, showcasing its refreshing fruitiness while maintaining the core spritz qualities. The cocktail’s portability is also a key factor behind its popularity; ready-made options like canned Saint Spritz serve to bring the spritz experience to more casual settings.

Since the spritz relies heavily on Prosecco, selecting a quality base is essential. Dawson recommends La Marca Prosecco for its bright notes that enhance the overall cocktail experience. Vittorio Marzotto from Santa Margherita emphasizes the balance and freshness provided by quality prosecco, which is crucial for a refreshing drink that invites repeated enjoyment.

When selecting Prosecco, the recommendation is to look for the Prosecco DOC label, as it ensures both authenticity and quality. According to Arianna Pizzolato from the Prosecco DOC Protection Consortium, choosing wines with this designation guarantees they come from specific regions and production guidelines, contributing to the cocktail’s desired freshness and effervescence.

In summary, the spritz cocktail is more than just a summer drink; it has transformed into a versatile, all-year beverage that reflects current social drinking trends. With numerous variations on the classic recipe and a focus on quality ingredients, the spritz continues to enchant aficionados and newcomers alike.

Californian lawmakers have passed a significant piece of legislation that will allow citizens to continue ordering cocktails to-go until 2029. This extension has been prompted by Assembly Bill 2663, which is on its way to Governor Gavin Newsom for his approval. The existing law, which permits restaurants to sell cocktails for off-site consumption, was set to expire on December 31, 2026.

Originally implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, this policy served as a lifeline for restaurants coping with indoor dining restrictions. Now, it appears that the demand for cocktails to-go remains strong among consumers, prompting lawmakers to seek further extension.

The legislation stipulates that restaurants can sell cocktails only in manufacturer-sealed containers or those with secure lids. However, there is a requirement that these alcoholic beverages must be purchased alongside a meal.

Adam Smith, the vice president of state government relations at the Distilled Spirits Council of the US, expressed the positive impact this measure has had, noting that it has evolved from a temporary solution to a popular convenience for consumers, enabling them to enjoy restaurant-quality cocktails in the comfort of their own homes.

California is among a decreasing number of states where cocktails to-go are still available on a temporary basis, with only a few such as New Jersey and New York having similar provisions. In contrast, 32 states and Washington, D.C. have moved to make cocktails to-go a permanent option, highlighting a national trend towards more flexible alcohol licensing as consumer preferences evolve. If Governor Newsom signs the bill, Californians will have the opportunity to continue enjoying cocktails with their meals through the year 2029.

Crafting the perfect bourbon cocktail can elevate your home bartending experience. Evan Flynn, bar manager at Death & Co Denver, shares insightful tips for creating delicious bourbon drinks.

Keep It Simple

Flynn emphasizes that many great bourbon cocktails are simple. A shorter ingredient list allows the bourbon to shine without being overshadowed by excessive components. Signature cocktails like the Manhattan or old fashioned usually have only a few ingredients, which is essential for highlighting the quality of the bourbon. Choosing a good bourbon, particularly an aged variety, enhances the drink’s complexity and quality.

Higher Alcohol by Volume (ABV)

When selecting bourbon for mixing, consider higher-proof options. Flynn advises looking for bourbons that are at least 90 proof (45% ABV). A bourbon’s proof can amplify its flavor profile, bringing out richer nuances when mixed correctly. However, personal preference is crucial, so it is advisable to experiment with various bourbons to find the one that suits your taste.

Stir, Don’t Shake

For bourbon cocktails, Flynn recommends stirring rather than shaking. Shaking can overly dilute the spirit and diminish its nuanced flavors. Stirring results in a well-balanced drink without excessive dilution.

Flynn also suggests choosing quality bourbons near or below the $40 mark for mixing. While premium bourbons offer rich flavors, they might not be ideal for cocktails due to their complex profile.

For those looking to perfect their bourbon cocktail skills, experimenting with different mixers like ginger beer or bitter amaro can bring a new dimension to traditional recipes. By following these tips, you can ensure that your bourbon cocktails are both delicious and reflective of the spirit’s quality.

Labor Day weekend marks a transitional period, moving from the bright days of summer to the emerging hues of autumn. This change is the perfect excuse to experiment with cocktails that blend the fruity essence of summer with the sweet and tart flavors of fall. In this spirit, here are 11 cocktail recipes that showcase an array of ingredients and spirits, from the traditional to the innovative.

Hennessy Berry Mojito

A delightful mix for your backyard gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Hennessy V.S
• 0.5 oz Fresh lime juice
• 5 Berries and mint
• 0.5 oz Simple syrup
• Garnish with mint sprig and fresh berries

MethodMuddle the berries, mint, and simple syrup in a mixing tin. Add the remaining ingredients and ice, then shake. Double strain into a Collins glass filled with ice and garnish.

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Royal Treatment

Perfect for when you want to pamper yourself.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
• 3 oz White Cranberry Juice
• Sparkling Wine
• Kiwi, Berries, & Mint Leaves for garnish

MethodCombine the gin and cranberry juice in a stemless wine glass. Top with sparkling wine, stir gently, and garnish with kiwi slices and berries.

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Campari Spritz

A vibrant, bitter take on a classic.

Ingredients

• 2 parts Campari
• 3 parts Prosecco
• 1 part soda water
• Orange slice

MethodPour the Campari, Prosecco, and soda into an ice-filled wine glass and garnish with an orange slice.

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Knob Creek Peach Old Fashioned

A simple yet sophisticated cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 parts Knob Creek 9 Year Old Bourbon
• ¼ part Peach Syrup
• 2 dashes Fee Brothers Whiskey Barrel Aged Bitters
• Peach wedges for garnish

MethodCombine the bourbon, peach syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass. Add ice and stir until chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with peach wedges.

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The Open Road

Highlighting the flavors of a new whiskey brand.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Stetson Bourbon
• 1 oz Fresh grapefruit juice
• ½ oz Benedictine
• 1 tsp 2:1 simple syrup

MethodShake all ingredients with ice and strain into a Nick and Nora glass. Garnish with grapefruit peel.

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Mango Margarita

A late-summer favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 oz Chinola Mango Liqueur
• 2 oz Tequila or Mezcal
• 1 oz Lime Juice
• 0.5 oz Agave
• For a spicy kick, add 2 dashes of spicy bitters
• Optional: Rim glass with salt

MethodShake all ingredients with ice and strain over fresh ice in a glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

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Aspen Dirty Shirley

Ideal for casual gatherings, day or night.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Aspen Vodka
• 1 oz Grenadine
• 4 oz Lemon-Lime Soda
• Garnish: Maraschino Cherries

MethodCombine all ingredients in an ice-filled highball glass and stir.

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Haku Matcha Martini

A matcha-infused twist for a unique flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 parts Haku Japanese Craft Vodka
• 3/4 part Fresh lime juice
• 3/4 part Matcha simple syrup

MethodCombine all ingredients in a shaker, shake, and double strain into a chilled coupe glass.

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Roku Gin Fizz

A refreshing gin cocktail with a fizzy finish.

Ingredients

• 2 parts Roku Japanese Craft Gin
• 1 part Lime Juice
• 1 part Simple Syrup
• 1 part Club Soda
• Lime Garnish

MethodShake the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice, then strain into a Collins glass. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wedge.

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The Rémy V en Rose

A fruity and refreshing cocktail.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Rémy V
• 0.25 oz Cointreau
• 0.25 oz Maraschino Cherry Juice
• 2 oz Lemon-Lime Soda
• Garnish: Lemon wedge and Maraschino cherry

MethodBuild all ingredients over ice in a highball glass, stir gently, and garnish.

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ALB

A citrus-forward creation from ALB Vodka.

Ingredients

• 2 oz ALB Vodka
• 2 oz Pineapple Juice
• 1 oz Fresh Orange Juice
• 0.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 0.5 oz Passion Fruit Syrup
• 0.5 oz Grenadine

MethodFill a glass with ice and combine the vodka and juices. Stir or shake briefly, then pour over ice. Slowly drizzle grenadine to create a layered effect and garnish with an orange wheel and cherry.

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These cocktails not only celebrate the flavors of summer but also usher in the refreshing notes of fall, making them perfect for your Labor Day festivities.

A new speakeasy has opened in Old Sacramento, capturing the essence of the Prohibition era with its unique concept. Dubbed The 1920s Bookstore, the establishment cleverly masquerades as a bookstore while serving classic cocktails inspired by the 1920s. The menu is designed like a book, where each drink is paired with an origin story, enhancing the charm of the concept.

Owner San Bao expresses his fascination with the Prohibition period, mentioning how it transformed drinking into an act of rebellion. "Prohibition turned drinking into rebellion and bartenders into alchemists," he notes, highlighting the creativity of bartenders at the time who masked inferior spirits with various ingredients.

The bar features a variety of classic cocktails, from the French 75 to the El Diablo, with prices ranging from $16 to $20. The location in Pioneer Square adds to the allure, as Bao aimed for a hidden sanctuary amidst a fast-paced world, creating an atmosphere where time feels different.

Reservations are required due to limited space, and the speakeasy operates from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM on Sundays to Wednesdays, and 4:30 PM to 10 PM on Thursdays and Fridays. The address is listed as 900 2nd St., Old Sacramento, but true to speakeasy tradition, guests are encouraged to look for a clock in Pioneer Square to find their way inside.

If you have a Costco with a liquor department nearby, you might have discovered the versatility of Kirkland Signature bourbon. Each 1.75-liter bottle offers a superb balance of taste, price, and quality, making it a pleasant option for both sipping straight and mixing into cocktails.

Unlike sweeter bourbons, Kirkland’s variant tends to be drier, featuring subtle notes of vanilla and a hint of sugariness that pairs well with sharper flavors. This characteristic allows for creative cocktail combinations that utilize citrus juices, bitters, or botanical elements to enhance the drink’s complexity. The affordable price makes it ideal for batch cocktails, and its quality, marked by its "Kentucky Straight" label, promises an enjoyable experience.

Classic Cocktails with Kirkland Bourbon

John Collins

A timeless choice, the John Collins serves as a spiked lemonade that’s refreshing in the summer. Utilizing Kirkland bourbon enhances the flavor profile, while balancing the sweetness with fresh lemon juice. Club soda can be added to individual glasses to maintain the drink’s fizz without going flat.

Lion’s Tail

For those seeking something a little different, the Lion’s Tail cocktail shines with its unique blend of flavors. It includes an allspice dram, creating a drink reminiscent of mulled beverages but with a bourbon backbone. The combination of spices and sweetness can intrigue both casual drinkers and cocktail enthusiasts.

French 95

This cocktail merges elements of several classics, utilizing Kirkland bourbon as a substitute for gin in a French 75. Combining champagne and elderflower liqueur, it results in a sophisticated drink perfect for those attending special occasions. The bourbon’s balanced sweetness stands up against the bubbles without overwhelming them.

New Orleans Milk Punch

For dessert lovers, New Orleans milk punch provides a luxurious take on bourbon cocktails. This delicious blend incorporates ingredients like whole milk and vanilla extract, resulting in a creamy drink that echoes the flavors of eggnog without being overly heavy.

Pineapple Bourbon Cocktail

The perfect poolside delight, this cocktail requires just three ingredients: pineapple juice, lemon juice, and Kirkland bourbon. The play between the citrus and the bourbon yields a fruity yet flavorful balance, making it a go-to summer drink.

With these cocktails in your repertoire, Kirkland Signature bourbon proves to be a delightful ingredient for both casual and crafted drinks alike. Whether hosting a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, these cocktails promise to elevate your experience.

Tiki culture, which began in the 1930s, is seeing a revival that extends beyond traditional rum drinks. The modern tiki experience emphasizes community and shared moments, with larger cocktails encouraging social interactions. Venues like Tiki Kai in California are showcasing this trend with drinks designed for sharing, such as the Púca Punch and Scorpion Death Bowl. Beverage consultant Kyle Rioux highlights this communal aspect, emphasizing that tiki bars address a social need to gather and create shared stories.

As this trend grows, the environments in which tiki drinks are served play a crucial role. Locations like the Rum Room at Rosewood Little Dix Bay offer immersive settings that enhance the escapist experience of tiki culture. With over 100 rare rums, the focus is on crafting elevated tiki drinks that embrace artisanal ingredients and modern flavors.

Tiki culture has also found homes in unexpected places, such as Brooklyn’s Sunken Harbor Club and Phoenix’s UnderTow. These venues transport patrons to a tropical paradise through decor and unique cocktails. UnderTow’s Mat Snapp notes that the tiki concept appeals to a broad audience, melding rich history with modern updates while fostering a playful environment.

This resurgence of tiki drinks and bars likely signifies a lasting trend, adapting to the tastes of newer generations who seek both enjoyment and an escape from their daily lives. As the tiki movement continues to grow, it captures the imagination of both enthusiasts and novices, ensuring that this vibrant culture remains an integral part of the drinking landscape.

Golden hour spritzes, tropical classics, and a strong focus on lemony concoctions characterize this summer’s most adored cocktails. Readers from Food & Wine are gravitating towards easy-to-make recipes that blend refreshing bubbles, bright citrus flavors, and tropical elements. The enduring trend leans towards lower-proof aperitifs, particularly those inspired by Italy.

With these cocktails, you can enjoy a mini vacation without leaving home; they are perfect for lazy afternoons, casual get-togethers, and light sipping. This list highlights some of the season’s most popular drinks, all designed to encapsulate that summery essence.

1. Limoncello Spritz

Capturing the essence of summer, the Limoncello Spritz combines limoncello with sparkling wine and soda water. This refreshing drink serves as a softer alternative to the classic Aperol Spritz and gives you a taste of the Amalfi Coast.

Get the recipe

2. Tinto de Verano

This beloved Spanish cocktail mixes red wine with lemon soda, presenting a lighter option to sangria. Its simplicity suits casual gatherings and makes it perfect for weeknight enjoyment.

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3. Hugo Spritz

The Hugo Spritz combines St-Germain elderflower liqueur, mint, lime, and Prosecco, offering a floral and herbaceous cocktail that’s softer than traditional spritzes. It’s ideal for afternoon relaxation.

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4. Bismarck

This beer-and-bubbly hybrid cocktail provides a refreshing twist on the Mimosa by using crisp beer alongside sparkling wine, making it a vibrant, fizzy choice for summer brunches.

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5. Seltz Limone Sale

A unique non-alcoholic option, this drink combines sparkling water, lemon, and a touch of salt to create a refreshing treat that is easy to prepare.

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6. Leche de Tigre

Inspired by the citrus marinade from ceviche, this savory drink features vibrant acidity and layered flavor that offer a refreshing option during warm days.

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7. Mind Eraser

Nostalgic yet refreshing, the Mind Eraser brings back a retro cocktail vibe. Served iced with soda, it maintains both potency and refreshment.

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8. Chi Chi

With notes of pineapple and coconut, the Chi Chi embodies tropical summer flavors. It’s cool, creamy, and perfect for hitting pause during hotter months.

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9. Limoncello Margarita

This version of the classic Margarita adds a splash of limoncello, combining the tartness of tequila with sweet and complex lemon flavors, perfect for summer celebrations.

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10. Como Spritz

Named after Italy’s glamorous locale, the Como Spritz balances sparkling wine and herbal flavors, making it perfect for socializing whether at the beach or in your backyard.

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Explore these cocktail recipes and bring the flavor of summer vacations home! Read more on Food & Wine.

The summer months can be scorching, making the desire for a refreshing cocktail even more appealing. Classic favorites such as piña coladas, margaritas, spritzes, and frozen coffee cocktails rise in popularity, especially as temperatures soar above 100°F in some parts of the U.S. While it’s important to remain mindful of hydration when consuming alcohol, many cocktails incorporate water-rich ingredients like cucumber, watermelon, grapefruit, and strawberries to help strike a balance.

Here are 19 refreshing cocktails that are perfect for beating the summer heat:

Four Roses Bourbon Pina Colada

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz. Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon
  • 1 oz. Coconut Cream
  • 1 oz. Pineapple Juice
  • 0.25 oz. Lime Juice
• Method: Shake ingredients with ice and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with pineapple and lime.

The Macallan Garden of Legacy

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old
  • 1 oz. Pink Grapefruit Juice
  • 0.5 oz. Sugar Syrup
  • A pinch of sea salt
• Method: Combine in a glass with ice and top with soda. Garnish with pink grapefruit.

Frozen Mocha

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Baileys Chocolate Liqueur
  • 0.75 oz. Vodka
  • 1 oz. Chilled Espresso
  • 0.5 oz. Simple Syrup
  • 1.5 oz. Water or Milk
• Method: Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth.

Angel’s Envy Peach Smash

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Angel’s Envy Bourbon
  • 0.75 oz. Reàl Peach Syrup
  • 0.25 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 3 oz. Fever Tree Sparkling Sicilian Lemonade
• Method: Pour into a glass with ice, stir, and top with lemonade. Garnish with mint and a peach ring.

The Sweet Fresh Johnnie & Green Tea

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Johnnie Walker Black Label
  • 5 oz. Sweet Green Tea
• Method: Combine in a glass with ice and garnish.

Gray Whale Surfrider Splash Cocktail

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Gray Whale Vodka
  • 2 oz. Lemonade
  • 2 oz. Sparkling Water
• Method: Add all ingredients to a glass with ice and garnish with lemon and mint.

Hibiscus Cooler

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Dos Hombres Blanco Tequila
  • 0.5 oz. Agave Syrup
  • 0.75 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1 oz. Hibiscus Tea
  • Top with soda water
• Method: Shake all except soda and strain over ice. Top with soda.

Matcha Colada

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz. Yoshi Matcha Liqueur
  • 1 oz. Coconut Rum
  • 1 oz. Coconut Cream
  • 2 oz. Pineapple Juice
• Method: Shake with ice and strain over pebble ice.

Grilled Watermelon Margarita

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz. Cointreau
  • 2 oz. Blanco Tequila
  • 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
  • 0.5 oz. Fresh Grapefruit Juice
  • 0.5 oz. Grilled Watermelon Syrup
• Method: Shake ingredients with ice and fine strain into a glass. Garnish with lime.

Absolut Hot Sauce

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Absolut Tabasco
  • 1 oz. Lime Juice
  • 0.75 oz. Agave Syrup
• Method: Shake and strain into a rimmed glass.

Kahlúa Caramel Bold Brew

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Kahlúa Dunkin’
  • 4-5 oz. Cold Brew
• Method: Mix together in a glass with ice.

Jim Beam Pineapple Bourbon Iced Tea

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part Jim Beam Pineapple
  • 3 parts Chilled Black Iced Tea
  • Optional: 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• Method: Combine in a tall glass with ice and stir.

Wild Turkey Mint Julep

• Ingredients:
  • 2.5 parts Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
  • 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
  • 12 mint leaves
• Method: Muddle mint, add crushed ice and alcohol, mix gently.

Chucu-Chucu

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz. Watanabe Bros Imo Shochu
  • 1 oz. Can de la Calle Agave Wine
• Method: Shake ingredients with ice and strain.

Cazadores Pineapple Margarita

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz. Cazadores Pineapple Infused Tequila
  • 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
  • 0.75 oz. Agave Syrup
• Method: Shake and strain into a salted glass.

Ichiki Tini

• Ingredients:
  • 2 parts Daiyame 24 Imo Shochu
  • 1 part Pineapple & Verbena Cap Corse Blanc Vermouth
• Method: Freeze before serving straight into a chilled coupe.

Another Hendrick’s Spritz

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 parts Another Hendrick’s Gin
  • 2 parts Sparkling Rosé Wine
  • 0.75 part Lemon Juice
• Method: Combine in a large glass and garnish.

The Balvenie Poolside Cooler

• Ingredients:
  • 2 parts The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14 Year Old
  • 2 parts fresh pressed strawberry juice
  • 1 part Simple Syrup
• Method: Shake ingredients and serve over ice.

Pegasus Lychee Martini

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz. Pegasus Vodka
  • 1 oz. Lychee Nectar
  • 0.5 oz. Lemon Juice
• Method: Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass.

These cocktails, brimming with flavor and refreshment, are sure to keep you cool during the hottest days of the year.

A refreshing cocktail recipe has been created to complement the AJC Flagship podcast. This drink, inspired by the kudzu vine, is called "The Miracle Vine" and is perfect for sipping as you enjoy the podcast.

The Miracle Vine Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz London Dry Gin
• ¾ oz Kudzu Blossom Syrup
• ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• Soda Water
• Fresh mint and an edible flower for garnish

Instructions:

1. Shake the gin, kudzu blossom syrup, and lemon juice with ice.
2. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
3. Top off with soda water.
4. Garnish with fresh mint and an edible flower.

This cocktail is a delightful union of flavors, combining the essence of the southern kudzu plant with refreshing lemon and gin. Enjoy this mix while immersing yourself in engaging discussions on the podcast.