And so begins the quest for refreshing summer drinks…

I drink about a cup of lavender tea each day during the winter months.  Lavender has one of those distinctive tastes that you either love or hate.  I can see how some people could be put off by it.  It can be over powering and slightly medicinal if you are not careful.  I tend to find it soothing when judiciously used.  Here is an attempt to revamp my winter pallet for the warmer summer months.

Lavender Non-Alcoholic Spritzer

• Glass of Ice
• 1-2 tbsp Lavender Simple Syrup
• 12 fl oz of Sparkling Water or Seltzer (You can use unflavored varieties or experiment with your favorite seltzer flavors. Currently, I am slightly obsessed with coconut flavored seltzer.)
• a squeeze of Lime
• a Lavender sprig for garnish

1. Pour the simple syrup and seltzer over the ice.
2. Squeeze in a little lime juice.
3. Give it a gentle stir.
4. Garnish with lavender, and enjoy.

Lavender Wine Spritzer

• 1-2 tbsp Lavender Simple Syrup
• 6 fl oz of a dry white Wine
• 4 fl oz of unflavored Sparkling Water or Seltzer
• a Lavender sprig for garnish

1. Pour the simple syrup and wine into a glass.
2. Give it a gentle stir.
3. Top it off with the seltzer, and another gentle stir.
4. Garnish with lavender, and enjoy.

Lavender Simple Syrup

Recipe makes 1 pint.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Sugar
• 1 cup Water
• several sprigs of fresh Lavender

Directions:

1. Combine the sugar, water, and lavender in a sauce pan.
2. Bring it to a soft boil, and gently boil the syrup until all of the sugar has melted.
3. Pour the syrup into a glass jar or bottle, and let it cool.