Charred-Lemon Gin Sparkler Recipe
[Photograph: Autumn Giles]
The caramel depth and toned-down tartness of seared lemon is a total game-changer in this make-ahead gin cocktail that's great for crowds.
Why this recipe works:
- Searing the lemon halves before juicing mellows their acidity and transforms their flavor into something richer.
- Chilling the mixer base lets you mix up a big batch ahead of time and gives the rosemary time to infuse.
- A complex, botanical-rich gin like Botanivore from St. George Spirits makes this drink with a simple ingredient list anything but predictable.
- Yield:makes 12 servings
- Active time: 5 minutes
- Total time:10 minutes
- Rated:
Ingredients
- For the charred lemon juice:
- 12 lemons, halved
- For gin rosemary mixer:
- 8 (5-inch) sprigs of rosemary, cut in half
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups gin, such as St. George Botanivore
- 1 cup charred lemon juice
- For each cocktail:
- 1/4 cup gin rosemary mixer
- 2 tablespoons sparkling wine
- Ice
- Rosemary sprig for garnish
Directions
-
1.
For the charred lemon juice: Preheat a well seasoned cast iron or stainless steel skillet over high heat. Add lemon halves cut side down and cook until well charred, about about 2 minutes. Let cool then juice, straining out seeds.
-
2.
For gin rosemary mixer: In a pitcher or quart jar, combine the rosemary and sugar, bruising it with the back of a wooden spoon until you can smell the rosemary. Add the gin and lemon juice and stir to dissolve the sugar. Refrigerate, removing the rosemary sprigs after one hour.
-
3.
For each cocktail: Fill a glass with ice. Pour in gin rosemary mixer through a fine-mesh strainer. Top with sparkling wine. Stir once. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary and serve.
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