New York Shrub

Developed by Yana Volfson, bar manager at Peels restaurant in New York City this shrub can be virgin or alcoholic. Don't be afraid of the balsamic vinegar—it doesn't make for a vinegary-tasting drink, just a fresh, tart one.

 Ingredients

• 1 ounce Branch and Vines Traditional Balsamic*
• ¾ ounce lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup

Alcohol version:

• 1 ½ ounce Whiskey (we like Jack Daniels Honey)

 Directions

1. Make a simple syrup. Combine 1 cup water with 1 cup white sugar in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved. Cool before using. Note: simple syrup will keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
2. To make cocktail, pour lemon, simple syrup, and balsamic (add whiskey for alcohol version) into a cocktail shaker or closed container. Fill with ice and shake until well chilled, about 15 seconds. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass.

 

*Variations: Try Branch and Vine Maple or Dark Cherry Balsamic

 

Serves 1