Sips & Synopsis - This Weeks Makings

• Spring is Here

• Trivia Question

• Drink of the Week - Strawberry Basil Margarita

• 3 Spring Cocktails

• Choosing the Freshest Farmers’ Market Produce

Spring is Here—Time for Fresh, Vibrant Cocktails!

Hey there, cocktail lovers! As the weather warms up and farmers’ markets come back to life, it’s time to swap out those cozy winter drinks for bright, refreshing cocktails made with fresh fruits, herbs, and botanicals.

This week, we’re mixing up:
✔ 3 farmers’ market-inspired cocktails featuring spring’s freshest ingredients
✔ A mocktail that’s just as vibrant & delicious (minus the booze!)
✔ Tips for choosing the freshest seasonal produce for cocktails
✔ A fun mixology trivia question
✔ An inspiring quote to toast to the new season

So grab your market basket & cocktail shaker—spring sipping starts now!

Trivia Question❓

Q: Which cocktail features both lime and mint and was first created in Cuba? 

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Drink of the Week

There’s something magical about a farmers’ market in the early days of spring. The first warm breeze, the scent of fresh herbs, the burst of color from ripe strawberries, and that excited feeling that winter is finally behind us.

And if you’ve ever strolled through a farmers’ market and picked up a perfectly ripe strawberry, you know it’s nothing like the grocery store kind. It’s sweeter, juicier, and bursting with flavor, like a little red gem of sunshine.

That’s exactly why we’re making the Strawberry Basil Margarita our Drink of the Week!

This cocktail captures the essence of spring, blending sweet strawberries, aromatic basil, and fresh lime into the ultimate seasonal sip. It’s bright, refreshing, and just like a trip to the farmers’ market—something special you can’t get all year long.

So, let’s raise a glass to the return of fresh flavors, outdoor markets, and the joy of sipping something delicious in the sun! ☀️🍓

Spring Farmers’ Market Cocktails

🍋 Rhubarb Collins (A Tart & Floral Twist on a Classic)

Rhubarb is a springtime superstar, and its tart, slightly sweet flavor makes this gin-based cocktail an absolute must-try.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz fresh lemon juice

• 0.75 oz rhubarb syrup (see below!)

• 2 oz club soda

• Lemon wheel & fresh thyme for garnish

For Rhubarb Syrup:

• 1 cup chopped rhubarb

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup water

👉 Simmer all ingredients in a saucepan until rhubarb softens. Strain and let cool.

Instructions:

1. Shake gin, lemon juice, and rhubarb syrup with ice.

2. Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.

3. Top with club soda and stir.

4. Garnish with a lemon wheel & fresh thyme sprig.

5. Cheers to fresh flavors! 🌸

🌱 Minty Garden Mojito (Light, Crisp & Herbaceous)

Spring is mint’s time to shine, and this farmers’ market-inspired mojito keeps things light, crisp, and oh-so-refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum

• 1 oz fresh lime juice

• 0.5 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey & warm water)

• 6 fresh mint leaves

• 2 oz club soda

• Cucumber slice & mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle mint & lime juice in a shaker.

2. Add rum, honey syrup, and ice—shake well.

3. Strain into an ice-filled glass and top with club soda.

4. Garnish with a cucumber slice & mint sprig.

5. Take a sip & feel the spring vibes! ☀️

Bonus: Farmers’ Market Mocktail – The Spring Fizz 🌼

For those skipping the booze but still craving bright, fresh flavors, this mocktail is citrusy, floral, and packed with farmers’ market goodness!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz fresh orange juice

• 1 oz fresh lemon juice

• 1 oz honey or elderflower syrup

• 2 oz sparkling water

• Fresh mint & edible flowers for garnish

Instructions:

1. Shake orange juice, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice.

2. Strain into a glass filled with ice.

3. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.

4. Garnish with fresh mint & edible flowers.

5. Sip & enjoy a taste of spring! 🌸

Pro Tips for Choosing the Freshest Farmers’ Market Produce for Cocktails

1. Shop early – The best fruits, herbs, and flowers go fast!

2. Smell before you buy – Ripe produce should be fragrant.

3. Look for vibrant colors – Bright greens, deep reds, and golden yellows = peak freshness.

4. Ask the farmers! – They know when their produce is at its best for cocktails.