Sippin’ waterfront in the coastal breeze with a fresh cocktail in hand…does it get any better? We love to experiment with our cocktails here at Julington Creek Fish Camp, and the best way we know how is to incorporate fresh herbs. Whether you stop in this summer for some fresh seafood and an exciting cocktail or make your own at home, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Brilliant Basil
Basil should be a staple in any and every kitchen. From an amazing pasta dish to a fresh cocktail, basil is the go-to herb. Lucky for us, many liquors pair well with the sweetness of this vibrant herb. Summer cocktail classics typically feature citrus, easy-to-sip liquor like white rum or tequila and yes, you guessed it, basil (or another popular herb).
Strawberry Basil Lemonade: Strawberry infused vodka? Yes please. Add some fresh squeezed lemonade, pureed strawberries and muddled basil for enhanced taste. This cocktail is sure to refresh and get your summer night off on the right foot.
Pineapple Basil Twist: This delicious cocktail packs a punch with gin, pineapple juice, soda water, fresh lime and, of course, basil. Basil goes well with sweet fruits, if you haven’t noticed yet! Feel free to experiment and try different liquors with this refreshing cocktail, but our favorite is gin as it seems to mix perfectly with these fresh flavors.
Mmm, Mint!
Minty fresh cocktails give you a little sweet with a whole lot of punch. Mint definitely enhances the flavor of the alcohol and takes away any bite that might be present. Take a step further and develop your cocktail even more with fresh fruits.
Mojito: You say mint and we think mojito! Mojitos are simple and the perfect combination of semi-sweet flavors. Start with your choice of white rum and muddle a generous amount of mint. Mix with soda water, a splash of lime juice and a couple teaspoons of sugar. Just like that you’ve got a traditional mojito.
Moscow Mule: The classic copper mug is a definitely a sign of a good time. But what’s inside this copper mug is truly the show stopper. A generous amount of ginger beer mixed with vodka, a splash of lime juice and some fresh mint. Serve it on the rocks and style it with a slice of lime and a couple sprigs of mint.
Rockin’ Rosemary
Rosemary may not be the most happenin’ herb of choice for cocktails, but we can’t get enough of its unique flavors. This herb may look like pine needles, but it packs a fragrant summer flavor.
Rosemary Gin Fizz: Fizzy drinks are certain to pack a punch for your summer! Start with a simple syrup infused with rosemary on the stovetop. Combine your delicious rosemary simple syrup with some lemon juice, gin and soda water.
Rosemary Greyhound: Make that same simple syrup you whipped up for the gin fizz but this time you’re going to combine it with grapefruit juice and vodka. It’s a simple, delicious cocktail that can only be made better with a simple sprig of rosemary.
Herbs are the best way to sip in style this summer, and we are so on top of the game! Our cocktails this summer are sure to brighten your summer and keep you coming back. We have a summer romance with cocktails, and we’re sure you do too. Come by the river and try some of the best summer cocktails in Jax!