My mother was my favorite person. She enjoyed a good Tom Collins during the summer months, Manhattans in the winter. Growing up, we had lilac trees in our driveway that bloomed outside my window every year right around Mother’s Day. Lilac blooms only last a few days, their flowers and smell fading away after the first rain. Mom was always great about snipping a bunch and placing them around the house. The smell is now permanently etched in my mind, fused with memories of her. This drink is for you, Mom. I love you. Happy Mother’s Day.
THE GOODS:
2 oz vodka or London Dry Gin
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
3/4 oz lilac syrup*
DIRECTIONS:
Shake all ingredients and pour into a freshly iced Collins or highball glass. Top with seltzer or club soda. Garnish with a lemon wheel.
*LILAC SYRUP:
Boil 1/2 cup fresh lilac (or your favorite flower), 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup water until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to steep for 30 minutes. Strain and cool before use.
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