Finally after the winter monsoon season, spring breathes fresh in the air. The sun is shining, the air is warm, and the promise of new beginnings makes me crave two things:

1. To be outside
2. A fresh and fruity cocktail

With dour winter away, my taste for dark beer and dark wine shifts to springtime flavors. I want fresh and fruity but, as my palate always persuades, a little bit bitter, too.

In an effort to better utilize the considerable investment held in my liquor cabinet, I’m trying to get more creative with my cocktails at home. Last week, I bought a couple of ruby red grapefruits to play with. Last week, that meant a heavy amaro-whiskey combo. Today with the pretty sunshine, we’re going floral.

Springtime -Floral, Citrus, and Gin

What makes gin, gin? Basically, gin is vodka with herbs but hey, that describes most liquors. It’s widely agreed the distinguishing herb of gin is juniper. Probably coriander too. Probably lemon peel. But throw juniper in and whatever alcohol you’re steeping becomes gin.

I tend to like my gins less juniper (aka pine) forward and more citrus-y. When I saw a bottle of Tanqueray with Rangpur lime on vacation last year, I figured it’d be right up my alley. And correct! It’s quickly become my house gin. Still with juniper, of course, but tangy from lime without being overwhelming. It’s just what I want in an afternoon pick me up.

Grapefruit, gin, now I needed something sweet. Ideally, without having to make a simple syrup since my stores are out for the moment. I chose Aperol since it’s another liquor that haunts my summer dreams. Aperol spritzes along the banks of Venice in the afternoon -bliss! It’s a great way to layer in sweet when you’re in a pinch, especially when you combine it with something like grapefruit and gin that can stand up to the bitter.

Shaken with ice and strained into one of my mothers punch glasses, this drink for a Floral Fanatic proved to be a delightful afternoon treat!

Floral Fanatic

• 1 oz Tanqueray Ragpur Lime (Or other citrus forward gin)
• 1 oz Aperol
• 2 oz fresh squeezed grapefruit juice

Combine ingredients (ratio out for more if you like!) in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well. Strain and serve in a coupe or other fanciful glassware!