Bitter Summer

Embrace the innovative spirit of London’s Match Bar Group, now known as The Rushmore Group, as they redefine the art of bartending with their exceptional libations. Among their cherished creations is the delightful “Bitter Summer,” a favorite that captures the essence of a London summer in a glass. This refreshing concoction epitomizes the perfect balance of bitter and sweet, showcasing the group’s unparalleled expertise in mixology.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 3/4 fl oz/50ml gin
• 2 tsp Campari
• 1 3/4 fl oz/50ml pink grapefruit juice
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 3 tsp sugar syrup (see page 288 for recipe)
• Dash of passion fruit syrup
• Ice cubes
• Crushed ice
• Pink grapefruit slice and sprig of mint (for garnish)

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, Campari, pink grapefruit juice, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and a dash of passion fruit syrup.
2. Add ice cubes to the shaker.
3. Shake the ingredients vigorously to ensure a perfectly blended mixture.
4. Strain the delightful concoction into a glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Top off the drink with additional ice if needed, ensuring the libation remains refreshingly chilled.

YIELD:

This recipe yields one serving of the enticing “Bitter Summer” cocktail.

SERVING:

To serve the “Bitter Summer,” present it in either a highball glass or a sling glass, generously garnished with a sprig of mint and a pink grapefruit slice. The vibrant garnish enhances the visual appeal, inviting you to savor the essence of summer with each sip.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Vigorous shaking is key to achieving the perfect amalgamation of flavors and creating a well-chilled concoction.
• The glass should be filled with enough crushed ice to maintain the drink’s refreshing temperature.

TIPS:

• Adjust the sweetness level by varying the amount of sugar syrup and passion fruit syrup to suit your taste preferences.
• Experiment with different gin varieties to find the perfect one that complements the other ingredients.

Unveil the taste of London’s cutting-edge mixology with the “Bitter Summer,” a cherished creation from the influential Match Bar Group, now known as The Rushmore Group. This delightful highball or sling cocktail captures the essence of a London summer, skillfully blending gin, Campari, pink grapefruit juice, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and a dash of passion fruit syrup.

As the cocktail shaker resounds with the mingling of ingredients, the anticipation grows for the revelation of this captivating libation. The fusion of gin and Campari brings a delightful bitterness, harmoniously balanced by the sweet tang of pink grapefruit juice and the zest of lemon juice. The subtle richness of the sugar syrup and the dash of passion fruit syrup add a layer of complexity to this tantalizing concoction.

Upon pouring the “Bitter Summer” into the glass, the crushed ice entices the senses, offering a refreshing chill that encapsulates the spirit of summer. Each sip reveals a dance of flavors, a symphony of bitter and sweet that captivates the palate.

Presented in a highball glass or sling glass, adorned with a vibrant sprig of mint and a tempting pink grapefruit slice, the visual allure of the “Bitter Summer” complements its taste. The bright colors and delightful aroma transport you to a London summer’s day, where the world comes alive with each refreshing sip.

In conclusion, the “Bitter Summer” embodies the innovative spirit of The Rushmore Group, offering a cocktail that is both delightful and memorable. Elevate your libation experience with this exceptional creation, and savor the essence of London’s cutting-edge bartending in every invigorating sip.