Sparkling Lavender Infused Aperitif Recipes

LAVENDER BLUEBERRY BEES KNEES COCKTAIL

Steps:

• Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled about 3/4 with ice.
• Shake until chilled, then strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with blueberries.

LAVENDER SPRITZER

Steps:

• Bring water and sugar to a boil in a large saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add lavender; remove from heat. Let stand for 30 minutes. Strain. Return to pan, and boil until reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Let cool completely. Fill each of 6 glasses with 3/4 cup sparkling water. Stir 1/4 cup syrup into each.

SPARKLING LAVENDER-INFUSED APERITIF

Steps:

• LAVENDER SIMPLE SYRUP:Combine water, sugar, lavender and vanilla bean seeds and pod in a medium saucepan.
• Heat gently over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
• Immediately reduce heat to a low simmer and continue to stir until sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let steep for one hour, or until completely cool.
• Strain through a fine mesh strainer lined with a clean paper coffee filter.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Makes about 2 cups.
• LAVENDER-INFUSED APERITIF: In the bottom of a Champagne flute, place one or two tablespoons (or to taste) of the lavender simple syrup. Top up with chilled Champagne or sparkling white wine such as cava or prosecco. Decorate with lavender sprigs, if desired.