Ingredients:

  • 2 oz London Dry Gin
  • 1 oz Elderflower Liqueur
  • 0.75 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 0.25 oz Simple syrup
  • 4 oz Chilled soda water
  • 3 large clear ice cubes
  • 1 thin lemon wheel
  • 1 sprig fresh mint

Instructions:

  1. Place your highball glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before you plan to mix. A frosted glass isn't just for looks, it keeps the ice from melting the second it touches the glass, preserving the integrity of your spirits.
  2. Add the 2 oz London Dry Gin, 1 oz Elderflower Liqueur, 0.75 oz lemon juice, and 0.25 oz simple syrup directly into the chilled glass. The aroma here should be sharp and citrusy, with the gin's juniper notes hitting your nose first.
  3. Gently drop in your 3 large clear ice cubes. I prefer using large cubes because they have less surface area than crushed ice, which means they melt slower. This prevents your drink from becoming a watery mess halfway through.
  4. Slowly pour the 4 oz chilled soda water over the ice. Listen for the sizzle and crackle as the bubbles react with the cold spirits. Use your bar spoon to reach the bottom of the glass and pull upward once, very gently, to integrate the heavy syrup at the bottom.
  5. Slap the sprig of fresh mint against your wrist to release the oils, then tuck it into the glass alongside the lemon wheel. The final scent should be a garden fresh mix of mint, lemon zest, and sweet blossoms.