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Ingredients
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Herb-Infused Base
Fruit & Acid
Sparkle & Finish
Method
Herb-Infused Base
Muddle thyme
Place 5 of the fresh thyme sprigs in a mixing glass or shaker. Add the simple syrup. Gently muddle the thyme for 20–30 seconds to release the essential oils and aromatics — avoid pulverizing leaves into bits; press and twist to bruise the stems and leaves.
Combine with spirit
Add the vodka to the muddled thyme and stir briefly (10 seconds) to marry flavors. Allow to sit for 1–2 minutes so the alcohol extracts additional thyme aroma while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Fruit & Acid
Add juices
Add the fresh grapefruit juice and fresh lime juice to the mixing glass with the thyme-vodka mixture. If using grapefruit bitters, add 2 dashes now.
Shake with ice
Fill the shaker with ice (about 3/4 full). Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosty and the liquids are well chilled.
Sparkle & Finish
Strain
Double-strain the shaken cocktail into a chilled Collins or highball glass filled with fresh ice (use a fine mesh strainer to catch thyme bits and pulp).
Top with soda
Gently top with about 60 ml chilled club soda to add effervescence. Stir once gently (1–2 rotations) to integrate without losing too much carbonation.
Garnish and serve
Slap the remaining thyme sprig between your palms to release aroma, then place it on top of the drink along with a thin grapefruit wheel or twist on the rim. Serve immediately.