So many of us have adopted new houseplants, started backyard gardens, built raised beds or started plants from seed during the pandemic. Tying us to the places we live through the cultivation of plants is certainly one of the better side effects from being cooped up at home. I’ve personally taken the time to cultivate a “cocktail garden” at my house, one that’s filled with drink-friendly herbs.

Summertime cocktails are going to be extra delicious.

While traditional mint juleps are herbaceous and refreshing, I like to change up the flavor profile and incorporate different herbs in the simple syrup for a versatile “garden julep” cocktail — one that captures the taste of a particular point of the season, here in the garden. A few favorite julep versions of mine are basil, pineapple sage and lemon thyme, but get experimental with what you have!

SUMMERTIME GARDEN JULEP

2 ounces bourbon

1/2 ounce herbal simple syrup, crushed ice

sprigs of fresh herbs, for both the syrup and garnish

1. In a cocktail or julep glass, combine the bourbon and herbal simple syrup.

2. Add a little crushed ice and stir together to integrate and slightly dilute the ingredients.

3. Top with extra crushed ice and garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs.

HERBAL SIMPLE SYRUP

1. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan on low heat. Bring to a slow simmer and remove from heat.

2. Add a handful of fresh herbs (for this particular cocktail, I used lemon balm and mint together) and let steep until the mixture cools.

3. Strain off the solids and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Originally published in the Summer 2020 issue of SPOKE+BLOSSOM

Summertime Garden Julep Recipe