Last week, we embraced the changing seasons and flavors. And as our move into spring continues, another drink that encompasses this time of year is a cocktail we’re calling Springtime Tranquili-Tea, which showcases homemade Earl Grey simple syrup and vodka.
The combination of vodka and Earl Grey tea, fine year-round sippers all on their own, work so perfectly together — along with the accompanying ginger and lemon — that this creation is essentially comfort food in a glass (alcohol counts as food, right?). Think of the sun’s warmth hitting you after getting caught in a rain shower; that is this drink.
For those who prefer gin, a spirit whose botanicals naturally scream spring, you can easily substitute your favorite brand in place of vodka. In fact, the flavors will be a bit more in your face, in case that’s your thing. I wouldn’t recommend going with gin if you’re new to the booze, though; in this recipe, gin doesn’t serve as a great introduction for the uninitiated (but do check out the Orange Blossom Bee’s Knees I whipped up for my gin-averse family member).
Our newest cocktail of the week features St-Germain and Lillet Blanc, too, which aren’t mandatory, but they help a cocktail go from average to spectacular. If you’re looking for quick and easy, the recipe can work without them. And if you have to choose between one or the other, go with St-Germain — it adds that extra something special.
Down the drink after work when you need a little caffeine to transition into the evening hours, and also some booze to kick back after the day you just had. But make no mistake: This isn’t your all-day cocktail of choice. It’s an I-need-a-stiff-drink-now kind of creation. Like a strong martini, only this tastes good.
Makes 1
Earl Grey Simple Syrup:
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
2 Earl Grey tea bags
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring water to a boil. Add sugar and stir until dissolved. Once dissolved, remove from heat and add tea bags. Allow to steep for 5 minutes, then discard the tea bags. Store covered and refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
Cocktail:
2 ounces vodka
1 ounce Earl Grey simple syrup
1/2 ounce lemon juice
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1/2 ounce Lillet Blanc
1/2 ounce St-Germain
Fill a coupe glass with ice and water. Set aside to let chill. In a mixing glass, add all ingredients and give them a quick stir. Fill mixing glass with ice and stir for 30 seconds until diluted and well-chilled. Discard ice and water in the coupe glass and strain in cocktail. Garnish with a lemon twist.
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This article appears in Mar 30 – Apr 6, 2017.