Sunshine Sipping: La Buena Vida!
Sunshine is an altogether rare occurrence here in the UK and such is the rule that when I am not at work it usually rains. Yet here I was on my day off, sitting in my garden soaking up the rays and thinking to myself that the life of a bartender really is 'the good life'. Chilled summer tunes playing in the background and a breakfast of fresh fruit and almond croissants, there was just one thing missing - a good cocktail.
So inspired by the glorious weather and the good life itself I created 'La Buena Vida', a little personal heaven to be the cherry on the cake that is a sunny Wednesday in May.
La Buena Vida
- 1.5 oz/44 ml Your Favourite Gin (editor's recommendation: Martin Miller's, medalist in the 2013 NY International Spirits Competition)
- .5 oz/15 ml Cocchi Vermouth di Torino
- .5 oz/15 ml Chamomile Tea Syrup*
- 2 dashes Orange Bitters
- 1 inch freshly diced Ginger
*To make the Chamomile Tea Syrup: add 2 cups caster sugar into a pan. In a separate bowl add 6 chamomile tea bags and steep for 5 minutes in hot water. Add one cup of the tea to the sugar and heat gently. Reduce down for 5 minutes and leave to cool. Stores in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
To make the cocktail: muddle the diced ginger lightly in the bottom of a shaker and then add the other ingredients. Shake well with ice and fine strain into a chilled coupe. I garnished mine by flaming orange peel over the drink and dropping in, but if you prefer to twist by all means do so.
The gin you use is totally up to you because everyone has a preference in style and brand and this drink should be one that invigorates and enhances your happiness. Remember to enjoy yours in a place away from all the hustle and bustle, a place where you can really be reflective on all the good things you have. Enjoy it with your favourite food and your favourite music and if you so wish in good company.
Cheers to La Buena Vida and your own personal heaven!