This Ginger Rogers has been my drink of choice this summer, when I’ve been motivated enough to get out a few bar tools, rather than crack open a beer or pop open a bottle of wine.  So really, those times have been few & far between…but when it’s happened, it’s been for the Ginger Rogers.

This drink has a lot going for it with mint, freshly squeezed lime juice, homemade vanilla ginger syrup, GIN…& I love it even more when topped off with Blenheim Old #3 Hot Ginger Ale.

GINGER ROGERS
makes 1 cocktail

8-10 mint leaves
1/2 oz vanilla ginger simple syrup, recipe below
2 oz gin
1/2 freshly squeezed lime juice
ice, for chilling
ginger ale, to top
lime wedge, for garnish

Fill a tall, 10-14oz glass with ice & set aside.

Place the mint leaves in the palm of your hand & clap your hands a few times to start releasing the flavor.  Add the mint to a cocktail shaker with the vanilla ginger syrup & muddle it just a bit.  Add the gin, lime juice & ice.  Shake well & strain into the prepared glass.  Top with ginger ale, garnish with lime & cheers!

adapted from Post Prohibition, Handcrafted Libations

VANILLA GINGER SIMPLE SYRUP
makes 1 cup

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/4 cup fresh ginger, grated
2 vanilla beans or 2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste

Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over high heat.  Bring to a boil, then remove from heat & let cool.

Once cool, strain out the ginger & vanilla bean pods.  Will keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks (adding a splash of vodka might make it last a little longer).