Lavender Meyer Lemon Tom Collins

This Lavender Meyer Lemon Tom Collins Cocktail is a play on the classic Tom Collins, similar to a Gin Rickey or Gimlet, with a sparkling burst of herby essence.

Ingredients

For the Simple Syrup:

  • 1 1/4 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 bunch lavender, buds, stems and leaves (or 3 Tb. dried culinary buds)

For the cocktail:

  • 1 ounce lavender simple syrup
  • 1 ounce Meyer lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
  • 2 ounces good gin
  • ice
  • club soda
Preparation

Heat the water, sugar and lavender in a small pot of high heat. Bring to a low boil, then cover and remove from heat. Allow the simple syrup to steep for 20 minutes. Pour through a sieve to remove the lavender. Place the the fridge until ready to use.

For each cocktail: Fill a glass half way with ice. Pour the simple syrup, lemon juice and gin over ice. Stir, then top with club soda.

For a martini-style Tom Collins: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the simple syrup, lemon and gin. Cover and shake for 30-60 seconds, until frothy. Pour into a martini glass and add 1-2 oz. of club soda.

Source: A Spicy Perspective