A festive cocktail to pair with summer celebrations is a must. For us, the ideal summer sipper includes local produce at the peak of freshness. To make your drink complete, include The Mountain Valley Sparkling Water for just the right amount of invigorating bubbles.
Sweet, ripe red strawberries make for a great refreshing cocktail. Our favorite is a Summer Strawberry Smash. If you prefer a different spirit than rum, brandy or whiskey each go well with this recipe. You can even substitute our sparkling essences in lime twist or blackberry pomegranate for The Mountain Valley Sparkling Water. It’s the ultimate seasonal cocktail any way you mix it.
A Pitcher of Strawberry Gin Smash (serves 8)
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons sugar
2 limes, juiced, about 4 tablespoons
1 pound fresh strawberries
2 cups gin
24 ounces of The Mountain Valley Sparkling Water
Fresh mint sprigs as a garnish
Muddle the sugar and limes in a pitcher that holds at least 8 cups (64 ounces). Set aside 6 to 8 small strawberries and make a small slice in their tips. Hull and slice the remaining strawberries and muddle the slices lightly with the sugar and lime juice. Stir in the gin and The Mountain Valley Sparkling Water and pack the pitcher full of ice. Add mint sprigs to garnish. Pour into ice-filled glasses and garnish with a strawberry, slotted onto the edge of the glass.
To make-ahead of time: Mix everything except The Mountain Valley Sparkling Water and ice, then refrigerate overnight. A night in the fridge will also help the strawberries add more flavor and color to the drink. When ready to drink, add sparkling water and ice. Enjoy!
