Refreshing Kiss Cocktail

In attempt to write consistently on the blog, I will present weekly cocktail-inspired posts. This week's drink is inspired by Valentine's day! Whether you are single or taken, the Refreshing Kiss Cocktail is a great drink to sip on or gobble down like I did. This drink tastes how a kiss should be: a mix of emotions, invigorating, minty, sweet, smooth, and leaves you wanting more. See the recipe at the bottom and tips are within the post. Let me know how this drink turned out and any other drink requests. Enjoy!

*Depending on how sweet you want your drink, add as much simple syrup as you want. Remember it is better to start with a little and gradually add more.
*When you muddle the ingredients together, just slightly press on the mint. You are trying to bruise them, NOT crush them. If you crush them, they will leave a bitter taste in your drink.
*Remember you will continue to bruise the mint when you shake it, so be careful you don't over-muddle it.

*Add a few drops of grenadine, and since the grenadine is heavier and it will float to the bottom. This will create the gradient effect in the drink.
*Depending on the amount of simple syrup you added, the cherry may float to the bottom or it may float in the gradient.

 

Refreshing Kiss Cocktail, serves one
10 mint leaves
1 lemon slice
1 lime slice
Simple syrup*
Vodka (plain)
Lemon juice
Ginger ale
Grenadine
Ice

1. In the bottom of a tall glass, add 10 mint leaves, 1 lemon slice, 1 lime slice, and a little simple syrup. Muddle the leaves until they are bruised. Stop when you start smelling the minty goodness!
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Add 2 oz. of vodka, 1 oz. of fresh lemon juice, and 1 oz. of ginger ale.
4. Shake it!
5. Strain the drink into a thin cocktail glass.
6. Add 0.5 oz. of grenadine to give the gradient effect.
7. Drop an unstemmed cherry to the drink.
8. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a mint spring. (Optional)

*Simple Syrup
Add 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar into a small pan. Stir on medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved. Refrigerate in an airtight container.