This cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of summer. Mulberries have a short season, so these delicate long dark red berries are a delicacy for this region. I have found that they never last long at home, so when I get them I usually cook them into a simple syrup to preserve their flavor. Add a few tablespoons to sparkling water or lemonade, or try it in this delicious cocktail!

Mulberry Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup of Mulberries
• ½ cup of sugar
• ½ cup of water

Put all ingredients in a heavy pot and bring them to a simmer. Cook, stirring a bit, until sugar has dissolved. Mash the mulberries, then let the mixture continue to simmer for another 15 minutes. Strain the syrup (discarding the solids), and put it into an airtight jar. The syrup will keep, refrigerated, for about a week. 

Mulberry Cocktail:

• 2oz Gin
• 1oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1oz Triple Sec
• ¾ oz Mulberry Simple Syrup
• Splash of Sparkling Water
• Ice

Pour the gin, lemon juice, triple sec, and Mulberry Simple Syrup into a shaker filled with ice. Shake the mixture well for at least 30 seconds, then strain it into a martini glass or coupe, add a splash of sparkling water, and garnish with a lemon or Mulberry. Drink responsibly. 

Hasta pronto, 

Elizabeth