Grove Path Recipe

Prepare honey syrup (if not ready)

Make honey syrup by combining equal parts honey and hot water (for this recipe use 1/4 cup honey + 1/4 cup hot water). Stir until honey fully dissolves. Cool before using. (Makes more than needed; refrigerate up to 2 weeks.)

Muddle kumquats and basil

Place the 3 whole kumquats (cut each into quarters) and 6 basil leaves into a cocktail shaker or sturdy mixing glass. Add the honey syrup (0.5 oz). Using a muddler, gently press and twist to release juices and oils for about 20–30 seconds. Aim to bruise the basil leaves lightly — not shred them — so they release aromatic oils without bitterness.

Add spirits and acids

Add 2 oz Seedlip Grove (or citrus nonalcoholic spirit), 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 oz verjus to the shaker with the muddled kumquat and basil. Fill the shaker with ice (about 1 cup) to chill and slightly dilute.

Shake and strain

Shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until the outside of the shaker is cold. Double-strain the mixture into a highball or Collins glass filled with fresh ice (use a fine mesh strainer in addition to the shaker strainer to remove kumquat seeds and basil bits).

Top with tonic and finish

Top the strained cocktail with 3 oz chilled tonic water. Give the drink one gentle stir (2–3 rotations) to integrate the tonic without flattening the bubbles. Taste and adjust: add up to 0.25 oz extra honey syrup if you prefer it sweeter, or a splash more verjus if you'd like more tartness.

Garnish and serve

Garnish with a kumquat wheel rested on the rim and a small basil sprig tucked into the drink. Serve immediately with a straw if desired.