Spring Fever
Creator Jamie Steinberg, the beverage director of Motel Morris in New York City, suggests using Sassetti vino spumante rosé, his favorite sparkling rosé from Italy. Of course, he says, any quality pink bubbles will do to make this flower-forward, sweet, tart and festive cocktail. Aside from the rosé, the use of Nikolaihof elderflower syrup is a key ingredient to help give it a romantic tinge—something you can imagine tasting in the garden of a queen. Another suggestion to give the drink a bit of a kick: Add an ounce of cucumber gin like Hendrick's to help enhance both the booze level and that pretty floral essence.

Directions

  1. Add the strawberries, elderflower syrup, lemon juice and bitters into a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.
  2. Strain into a wine glass over fresh ice.
  3. Top with the sparkling rosé.
  4. Garnish with a lemon wheel.