Cherry Elderflower Rose Gin & Tonic

As the temperatures rise and flowers start to bloom, it’s time to welcome the flavors of spring into our glasses. And what better way to celebrate the season and National Gin & Tonic Day than with a refreshing twist on the classic G&T? Enter Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin, an exquisite infusion of rose and elderflower that perfectly embodies the essence of spring. Paired with a homemade cherry syrup and crisp tonic water, this cocktail is sure to elevate your taste buds and brighten your day.

Disclaimer: This blog post is a sponsored content created in collaboration with Empress 1908 Gin. While the opinions expressed herein are my own, I want to be transparent about my partnership with Empress 1908 Gin in bringing you this content. Thank you for supporting the brands that make it possible for me to continue sharing delicious recipes and cocktail inspiration with you.

Tools and Ingredients You Will Need:

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure we have everything we need to craft this delightful concoction:

Tools:

• Saucepan
• Stirring spoon
• Fine mesh strainer
• Airtight container
• Cocktail glass
• Jigger
• Collins or highball glass

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Empress 1908 Elderflower & Rose Gin
• 1/2 oz cherry syrup (recipe to follow)
• 3 oz tonic water
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted

History of Gin and Tonic:

The history of the gin and tonic dates back to the 19th century when British soldiers stationed in colonial India would mix their daily ration of quinine tonic water with gin to make it more palatable. Quinine, derived from the bark of the cinchona tree, was used to prevent malaria but had a bitter taste on its own. The addition of gin, with its botanical flavors, transformed the medicinal tonic into a refreshing beverage.

Elderflower Rose Gin:

Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin is a tribute to the vibrant city of Victoria, British Columbia, known as the ‘City of Gardens.’ Handcrafted in copper pot stills, this gin captures the essence of Victoria’s blooming flowers with its bright floral bouquet and subtle sweetness. Infused with nine premium botanicals, including elderflower, orange, rose, and lavender, this gin offers a unique taste experience that is both delicate and complex. Its jewel-toned hue, derived from red rose petals and black carrot, adds a visual flair to any cocktail creation, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Make Cherry Syrup at Home:

Making cherry syrup at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe to follow:

1. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and pitted cherries.
2. Bring the mixture to a medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Simmer the mixture for 2-5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
4. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
5. Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into an airtight container.
6. Refrigerate the syrup for 2-3 weeks, allowing the flavors to meld and develop over time.

Pro Tips:

• For a more intense cherry flavor, you can use frozen cherries instead of fresh.
• Adjust the sweetness of the syrup to your taste by adding more or less sugar.
• Store the syrup in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness and flavor.

How to make a Cherry Elderflower Rose Gin & Tonic

In Conclusion:

With its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation, the Cherry Rose & Elderflower Gin & Tonic is the perfect way to celebrate National Gin & Tonic Day and welcome the arrival of spring. Whether you’re sipping it on a sunny afternoon or toasting to a special occasion, this cocktail is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, raise your glass, and cheers to the season ahead with Empress 1908 Gin!