Cocktail Thyme

Summer is gardening season and a time when we look to fresh harvests for cocktail inspirations.  Herbs have started to become more common as ingredients for cocktails and one that is quite versatile is Thyme. Today we share with you the recipe for Thyme Simple Syrup that can be used to create a number of fun cocktails. Whether you like Bourbon, Vodka, or Gin, this syrup can be a part of your summer mixology. The Syrup is easy to make as follows:

Thyme Simple Syrup

• ½ Cup Water
• ½ Cup Sugar or Honey (Honey is our Preference)
• 6 Springs of Fresh Thyme

Ina saucepan bring water to boil and reduce heat. Stir in Sugar/Honey until dissolved then add the Thyme. Simmer for 15 minutes or until reduced by 1/3. Strain out the Thyme springs and cool syrup. Thyme syrup will last in the refrigerator for about 7 days.

Variations: You can add the juice of 1 lemon to create a Lemon-Thyme syrup. We prefer to add the lemon separately to our cocktails but many recipes will call for Lemon-Thyme syrup.

The Thyme simple syrup has a great aromatic character that enhances a wide variety of cocktails. Below we list three for your consideration but suggest you experiment and create your own cocktail creations with this versatile syrup.

 

Bourbon Thyme Lowball

In a shaker Glass Filled with Ice Add:

• 2 Ounces of Well Bred Bourbon
• ¼ Ounce Lemon Juice (1 wedge squeezed)
• 1 Ounce Thyme Simple Syrup

Shake and Strain into a Lowball Glass filled with Cracked Ice.  Garnish with a spring of Thyme.

Lemon-Thyme Blueberry Smash

In a Shaker Glass Add:

• 12 Blueberries
• 1 ½ Ounces of Premium Vodka
• ½ Ounce of Lemon Juice (1/2 Lemon)
• 1 Ounce Thyme Simple Syrup

Muddle all Ingredients Together and then Fill shaker with ice.  Shake and pour contents into a highball glass. (do not strain).  Top with Club Soda and Garnish with a Thyme Sprig.  Serve with a Straw and Long Spoon for Berries.

Gin ‘n Thyme Salty Dog

In a shaker Glass Filled with Ice Add:

• 1 ½ Ounces London Dry Gin
• 1 Ounce Thyme Simple Syrup
• 3 Ounces of Fresh Pink Grapefruit Juice

Shake and Strain into a Salt Rimmed Highball Glass filled with Ice.  Garnish with a wedge of Grapefruit and Spring of Thyme.