Spring cocktails like this one are what’s happening right now

Springs is the season when bunnies emerge as a main theme and certainly there are plenty of fertility references to rabbits. So we couldn’t resist featuring this spring cocktail recipe called A Hare Above the Rest, offered to us by Distillery No 209. (Based in California, Distillery No 209 is an American distiller of premium gins.) Whether or not you buy into the bunny theme, we think you’ll appreciate this recipe’s balance of ingredients. I think the combo makes a perfect transitional flavor profile. Get ready to thaw out and gear up for summer.

A new way to do Aperol

The drink showcases Aperol, an odd, Italian spirit that’s really having a moment. (Perhaps you’ve seen all the Instagram photos of sunset-orange cocktails called Aperol Spritz? That’s the Aperol that gives the drink their evening glow.) It’s a spirit similar in sweetness level to Campari. But, although like Campari, it’s flavored with bitter orange, it lacks Campari’s bite. Still, as a flavoring for spring cocktails, it’s cheering orange glow and sweet kiss are pretty irresistible.

Here it is used to bring a bit of sweetness and enhance the orange flavor of the blood orange juice but it’s really Distillery No 209’s Gin that is the drink’s star. (Of course, if you prefer another brand, we invite experimentation.) Just be sure not to skimp on the fresh lemon juice. (Don’t forget that citrus makes our list of the 10 Best Foods for Women.) In this spring cocktail, the lemon’s hint of fresh, sour acidity is what gives the recipe its refreshing flavor.

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A Hare Above the Rest

Course: aperitif

Dish Type: Cocktail

Seasonal: spring

Servings: 1

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Distillery No 209 Gin or your favorite premium brand of gin
• 1 oz blood orange juice
• 1/2 oz Aperol
• 1/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker then shake.
2. Fine strain into a cocktail glass.
3. Garnish with orange zest, (optional).

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