Sippin' on Gin and Juice

Okay.....we know.....this is a natural food blog BUT a delicious cocktail made with seasonal, natural foods should also fit into that category, right? Or at least we think so! And you won't be finding any pre-made drink mixes in this kitchen and won't need any in yours after this recipe. Coming to you just in time as the days get shorter and the nights get colder, this drink is the perfect fit for these fall nights and upcoming holidays!

First we want to remind you that it is still apple season and there are plenty of creative ways to use the abundance! We kicked this apple juice up a notch by infusing with rosemary and vanilla bean but can think of so many more tasty possibilities. As for the spirit in this drink, gin seemed the perfect fit and lends itself well to festive fall beverages because of it's unique flavor. As many spirits, gin is distilled from grain and flavored with botanicals (or plant derived flavoring ingredients). Common to all gin is the flavor addition of juniper berries which give gin it's signature "piney" flavor so perfect for holiday drinks. Though gin is one of the broadest categories of spirits and can greatly differ in flavor profile based on the botanicals added in the distilling process. Some common botanicals added are citrus peels, licorice, coriander, nutmeg, cinnamon and anise. Okay, so gin is natural and flavored with some of our favorite spices - definitely fits the bill for this food blog and many drinks to come this fall. So let's get mixing!

Rosemary Vanilla Apple Juice and Gin Cocktail
PREP TIME: 20 mins
TOTAL TIME: 25 mins
Servings: 4, 5 oz cocktails

Ingredients
Infused Juice
6 small or 4 large apples
2 sprigs rosemary
2" fresh vanilla bean (sliced down the center to allow the seeds to come out)

Cocktail
16 oz infused apple juice (above)
4 oz gin
4 tsp pure dark maple syrup
4 tsp lemon juice
4 springs rosemary
4 lemon rind twists
Splash sparkling water/plain seltzer

Using a high speed juicer, juice enough apples to make about two cups of juice. In a small saucepan add juice, rosemary, and vanilla bean. Simmer for 15 minutes until fragrant. Carefully remove rosemary and vanilla bean and place juice in the fridge to completely cool. Add ice, 4 oz infused juice, 1 oz gin, 1 tsp maple syrup, and 1 tsp lemon juice to a drink shaker or a glass jar fitted with a tight lid. Shake well and pour into a glass. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary, lemon rind twist, and top with a splash of sparkling water. Repeat until you have made four deliciously beautiful fall inspired cocktails.

Ahhhhhh.....now how good is that? The savory rosemary combines with the sweet vanilla bean and tangy apple juice to create a drink that is well, perfect. And not to mention how this infused juice allows the subtly flavored gin to really shine and create a festive fall cocktail. We suggest that you make one (or a few!) and cozy up on these fall nights. Or better yet, share this recipe with friends and family this holiday season and wow them all with your mixology skills. What can't you do now,  really!?

Stay sippin',
Jess and Cecelia