Speranza Recipe
16 vanilla infused vodka, lavender, fresh lemon
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Lavender Syrup (if making fresh)
Method
Lavender Syrup (make ahead)
Combine and simmer
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar. Add 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves, then reduce heat and simmer 1–2 minutes to infuse.
Cool and strain
Remove pan from heat and let the syrup steep for 15–20 minutes off the heat, tasting for desired lavender intensity. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove lavender buds, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
Cocktail Assembly
Prepare glass
Chill a coupe or a rocks glass by filling with ice and setting aside while you shake the cocktail, or place glass in the freezer for a few minutes.
Shake
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice (about 1 cup). Add 2 oz vanilla‑infused vodka, 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 oz lavender syrup. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until well chilled and slightly frosted on the outside.
Double strain
Discard ice from the chilled glass. Fine‑strain the shaken mixture into the glass (use a Hawthorne strainer and a fine mesh strainer or julep strainer) to remove ice shards and any pulp.
Top and garnish
Top the cocktail with 1.5 oz dry sparkling water or club soda, pouring gently to preserve effervescence. Express a lemon peel over the drink to release oils, run it around the rim, and drop it in as a wheel or twist. Optionally garnish with a fresh lavender sprig for aroma.
Serve
Serve immediately. Stir gently once if needed to integrate the soda. Enjoy chilled.