Spirited Advisor

Italian 57

One of my favorite flavors is the delicious and delectable blossom, lavender. An ingredient in herbs de Provence, it is an integral part of this month’s cocktail, the Italian 57.    

While there is a slight dispute as to whether this purple bloom is an herb or a flower, the flavor is obviously floral, crisp, delicate. Lavender buds can be steeped into a simple syrup for a smooth and luscious addition to your cocktails. Simply add a handful (roughly one ounce) of buds to one quart of simple syrup; let simmer for one hour until the color in the purple buds is extracted. The final product will last weeks and add that certain je ne sais quoi, or certain something, to any summer cocktail.      

To make the Italian 57 combine one ounce of Aperol, an Italian bitter liquor, to one quarter ounce of lavender simple syrup, and a half-ounce of orange juice. This blend is sweet, fruity, floral and bitter- a classic combination for many cocktails. Top off with sparkling rosé and the combination is simply divine!

Italian 57

            1 oz Aperol

            .5 oz orange juice

            .25 oz lavender simple syrup

            Sparkling Rose float

Lavender Simple syrup

            2 cups sugar

            2 cups water

            1 oz lavender

Bring water and sugar to a boil until dissolved. Lower heat until water and sugar are simmering. Add lavender to simmering simple syrup for one hour or until lavender buds lose all purple color. Let sit and cool before using.