Cocktail Recipes + Pairings
COCKTAIL RECIPES + PAIRINGS
Derby Candle > Mint Julep
MINT JULEP
Derby candle cocktail pairing
EXPLANATION
The Mint Julep is one of the great all-time cocktails. Stiff and thirst-quenching, there's nothing quite like it on a hot day. Use the smallest ice cubes you can. The extra dilution chills the drink way down and takes the edge off the bourbon.
ELEMENTS
• 4 to 5 mint sprigs, leaves only
• 2 sugar cubes, or 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• 2 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
• Mint sprig, for garnish
EXECUTION
• Place the mint leaves and sugar or simple syrup into a julep cup, collins glass, or double old-fashioned glass.
• Muddle well to dissolve the sugar and release the oil and aroma of the mint.
• Add the bourbon. (It's best to choose one of the higher-end brands for the simple fact that bourbon is the Julep's only liquid. Though it is sweetened and flavored, the whiskey is primarily what you will taste.)
• Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir well until the glass becomes frosty.
• Garnish with a mint sprig. Serve with a straw and enjoy.
Mint Juleps are good for sipping but also pair nicely with Southern appetizers. Try pairing with pickled shrimp,deviled eggs, and pimiento cheese dip.
Veranda Candle > Tea Tini
TEA-TINI
Veranda cocktail pairing
EXPLANATION
The tea-tini is a delightful little vodka martini that's perfect for spring and summer afternoons. It's made with your favorite vodka and works with any tea you'd like to brew, offering a pleasant and refreshing cocktail that is completely customizable.
ELEMENTS
• Granulated sugar, for optional rim
• 1 1/2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce chilled tea
• 5 dashes of honeysuckle bitters
• 1/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice, to more taste
• 1 teaspoon honey, or simple syrup, to taste
• Lemon wedge or wheel, for garnish
EXECUTION
• If you like, rim a cocktail glass with sugar by rubbing the rim with a lemon wedge then dipping it into a small dish of sugar. Knock off any excess sugar over the sink or garbage can.
• In a cocktail shaker with ice cubes, pour the vodka, chilled tea, honeysuckle bitters, lemon juice, and honey
• Shake well.
• Strain into the prepared glass or a chilled cocktail glass.
• Garnish with a lemon wedge or wheel. Serve and enjoy!