Citrus Rosemary Tequila Tonic
Fresh orange, lime, rosemary, and tequila make a bright, bitter-edged tonic in ten minutes.
Prep: 5 · Cook: 5 · Total: 10 · Serves: 1 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.7/5 (142 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
This original highball takes the brisk structure of a tequila tonic and gives it a citrusy garden note. Rosemary keeps the finish savory and clean.
Story
Theo likes a highball that can hold its own next to a plate of fries. Rosemary makes the tequila taste a little wilder, while orange keeps the glass friendly. The tonic brings the snap and the fizz. It is the kind of drink that belongs under a neon sign, even if the bar is your kitchen.
By Theo
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 small rosemary sprig
- 1 1/2 ounces blanco tequila
- 1 ounce fresh orange juice
- 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
- 3 ounces chilled tonic water
- Ice, orange wheel, and rosemary sprig, for serving
Instructions
- Combine the water, sugar, and rosemary in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Warm for 2 minutes until the sugar dissolves, then cool briefly and discard the rosemary.
- Fill a tall glass with ice and add the tequila, orange juice, lime juice, and 1 teaspoon rosemary syrup.
- Stir for 8 seconds until the mixture is cold and evenly blended.
- Top slowly with tonic water and give the drink one gentle lift from the bottom with a bar spoon.
- Garnish with an orange wheel and rosemary sprig, then serve immediately.
Chef Tips
- Use a fresh rosemary sprig for the syrup because dried rosemary can taste dusty.
- Taste the orange before mixing and add a little extra lime if it is very sweet.
- Make the syrup up to 4 days ahead and refrigerate it in a sealed jar.
- Pour tonic last to keep the bubbles lively.
Cook's Notes
- **Syrup:** Do not boil the rosemary or it can turn medicinal.
- **Citrus:** Strain the juices if you want a perfectly clear drink.
- **Tonic:** Add it last and stir once so the bubbles stay bright.