In case you’re looking for something that strays from the usual floral flavors of gin, the Botanical Burn adds a spicy touch that makes your gin cocktail feel new again. From REVEL, a blend of Iron City Gin, melon-cucumber syrup, elderflower, lemon, and habanero bitters presents a spicy floral cocktail that is light and pleasing on a hot day. The unexpected mild heat of the habanero bitters gives your taste buds a tingling surprise while the cucumber and melon cool your senses.
How to Make the Melon and Cucumber Syrup
First, peel and chop your fresh cucumber and ripe melon into small pieces. Combine them in a blender and puree until smooth. Then you’ll want to strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to extract a clear juice. Pour the juice into a saucepan and add an equal amount of sugar, stirring over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for about 5–10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before straining again if needed.
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Botanical Burn: A Spicy Gin Cocktail
Description
Calming florals with an unexpected bite.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 1 oz melon/cucumber syrup
- 0.5 oz elderflower
- 0.5 oz lemon
- 1 dash habanero bitters
Instructions
- Chill a coupe or rocks glass.
- In a cocktail shaker, add 1.5 oz gin, 1 oz melon/cucumber syrup, 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1 dash habanero bitters.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Double strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.
Recipe by Darian Triest at REVEL
Photography by Dave Bryce
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