One of the secret dreams for my life is to be a bar tender. Since it’s more realistic than some of my other dreams (like being a broadway star), I like to dabble in it here and there. Whether I’m planning a party or just having a quiet Saturday afternoon, I love coming up with a good cocktail or two to fit the occasion. Here’s one of my latest…

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PLUM GIN & TONIC
This is a play on the classic gin and tonic–it doesn’t actually have tonic water or limes in it but it has the same effect. Plums are just coming in to season and should stick around until October so you should be able to enjoy this cocktail for the entire summer!

2 oz Plum Simple Syrup (recipe below)
4 oz Hendrick’s Gin
2 oz Lemon Juice
4-6 oz Soda Water

Combine Plum simple syrup, gin, and lemon juice in a shaker and shake over ice. Pour into glasses with ice and top with soda water. Stir to mix. Serves two.

***Side note: This is also tasty for the non-drinkers…just don’t add the gin!

PLUM SIMPLE SYRUP
Combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a small sauce pan and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add three ripe plums that have been peeled, pitted and cut into wedges. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat, let cool to room temperature, and strain before using.