Geshi, a Japanese term signifying the summer solstice around 21st June, ushers in a season of vibrant energy and warmth. This cocktail embodies the essence of this celebratory time with the infusion of summer fruits, creating a light and refreshing elixir perfect for those enchanting summer evenings. Geshi, made with the exquisite Hibiki 17 Years Old whisky, umeshu liqueur, and a touch of orange bitters, captures the spirit of the solstice and brings forth a symphony of flavors to tantalize your senses.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 3/4 fl oz/50ml Hibiki 17 Years Old whisky
- 2 1/2 tsp umeshu liqueur
- 2 drops orange bitters
- Large ice ball
- Lemon zest
- Round plum slices
PREPARATIONS:
- In a glass, place a large ice ball or a piece of ice.
- Pour the Hibiki whisky and umeshu liqueur over the ice.
- Add 2 drops of orange bitters.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Choose ripe and flavorful summer fruits for the umeshu liqueur to enhance the cocktail’s overall taste.
- Be precise with the number of stirs to achieve the optimal blend of flavors.
TIPS:
- Experiment with the quantity of umeshu liqueur to achieve your preferred level of sweetness.
- Consider using a crystal-clear ice ball to not only chill the drink but also add an element of visual appeal.
SERVING:
- Stir the ingredients in the glass precisely 24 times to ensure proper mixing.
- Express the oils from a strip of lemon zest over the cocktail by giving it a gentle twist.
- Garnish the drink with both the lemon zest and round plum slices.
Geshi is more than just a cocktail; it’s a liquid embodiment of the summer solstice, capturing the essence of the longest day of the year in a single glass. As you take your first sip, envision the sun’s golden embrace and the abundance of summer fruits that grace this delightful libation.
The choice of Hibiki 17 Years Old whisky lays the foundation for a harmonious symphony of flavors. The umeshu liqueur, crafted from ripe plums, brings a delicate sweetness that harmonizes with the whisky’s depth. A whisper of orange bitters adds a subtle complexity, dancing on your palate with every sip.
The ritual of pouring Geshi over a large, pristine ice ball or an ice piece mimics the sun’s radiant presence on the solstice. As you stir the drink exactly 24 times, you become a part of the alchemical process that marries these exquisite flavors into a seamless union.
The zest of lemon, releasing its fragrant oils with a twist, and the round plum slices offer an inviting aroma and a visual flourish, elevating the drinking experience to one of elegance and indulgence.
Whether you’re basking in the sun’s glow or enjoying a tranquil evening, Geshi is the perfect companion, a refreshing and light libation that encapsulates the spirit of summer’s zenith. Each sip carries the essence of the season’s bounty, a reminder of nature’s abundance and the beauty of life’s fleeting moments.
So, raise your glass and toast to the warmth, vibrancy, and pure joy that the summer solstice brings. Let Geshi be your guide to savoring the enchanting flavors of the season, one sip at a time.
