Cocktail Recipes + Pairings

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.

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!