Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Protocol›Dear John Recipe

Dear John Recipe

Inspired by Protocol
Time30m
Serves1

house made concord grape juice, spring 44 gin, hopped ver jus

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Grape Juice

Method

Grape Juice Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Concord Grape Juice

    In a medium saucepan, combine the Concord grapes and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the grapes are soft and have released their juices.

  2. 2

    Strain the Juice

    Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl, pressing down on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.

  3. 3

    Sweeten the Juice

    Stir in the sugar while the juice is still warm until fully dissolved. Allow the grape juice to cool completely before using.

Cocktail Assembly

  1. 4

    Mix the Cocktail

    In a cocktail shaker, combine the prepared Concord grape juice, Spring 44 gin, hopped ver jus, and fresh lemon juice.

  2. 5

    Add Ice

    Add ice to the shaker, filling it about halfway. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.

  3. 6

    Strain and Serve

    Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. Optionally, garnish with a few fresh Concord grapes or a lemon twist.

More from Protocol