Rosemary Vodka “Tonic”

When the weather turns cold, most turn to cocktails made with bourbon or whiskey, but it’s harder to find vodka-based winter drinks. So, when I needed a holiday party cocktail that was a little lighter—to serve along side my Chai Spiced Old Fashioned—this herbaceous vodka “tonic” seemed perfect. The Green Chartreuse and Rosemary Simple Syrup gives the traditional vodka tonic the holiday flavors it needs to hold it’s own next to the bourbon-based drinks.

Since I really don’t like tonic water (no matter how hard I try) I substituted it for sparkling water. If you’re a tonic lover, just flip it and reverse it.

Mix one up for yourself, or follow my easy batch cocktail recipe. Happy holiday hosting!

–FOR ONE–

• 2 oz Vodka
• 1 oz Green Chartreuse
• 1 oz Rosemary Simple Syrup
• 2 dashed of Angostura Bitters
• 4 oz Sparkling water (or tonic, if you prefer)
• Garnish: Rosemary sprigs and lemon round

STEP 1
Make the Rosemary Simple Syrup.

STEP 2
Combine Vodka, Green Chartreuse, Simple Syrup, and Bitters into a shaker with ice. Shake until cold. Strain into a tall glass and top with sparkling water. Garnish with Rosemary sprig and lemon.

–FOR A BATCH–
(makes about 25 servings)

• (2) 750 ml bottles of Vodka (about 50 oz)
• 750 ml bottle Green Chartreuse
• 25 oz Rosemary Simple Syrup
• 50 dashes Angostura Bitters
• 3 liters Sparkling water (or tonic, if you prefer)
• Rosemary sprigs or lemon rounds for garnish

STEP 1
Make the Rosemary Simple Syrup. To batch the recipe, use 2 cups water and 2 cups sugar.

STEP 2
In a beverage dispenser that hold 6 liters (or 200 oz), add Vodka, Green Chartreuse, Simple Syrup, Bitters, and sparkling water. Refrigerate until chilled.

STEP 3
Shortly before serving, fill glasses with ice. Add a garnish to each glass. When ready to serve, dispense chilled cocktail into glass.