photo thanks to Spiked Punch

A while back, I challenged AJ Rathbun of Spiked Punch to create a basil-based drink that would satiate and entice my herbal-loving palette.  Initally, he suggested marrying some crushed basil with grappa.  To which I very maturely replied, “Ew.  Gross.”  Grappa and I just don’t get along.  Though my family breaks out a bottle most every special occasion, I’m convinced this traditional Italian drink is nothing but souped-up petrol oil.  I don’t know how my relatives manage to pull shots of the stuff, it stings my throat just thinking about it.  However, AJ assured me he could come up with something that would make me see grappa in a whole new light.  And now, a mere few weeks later, he’s done it: I present to you, Tareva’s Tipple.

The drink combines gin, grappa, basil, and simple syrup to create a delicious potion that is sure to make even the staunchest of grappa nay-sayers spellbound.  An interesting proposition, uniting English gin with Italian grappa.  Though I imagine the lovely juniper-scented liquor will offset the grappa nicely.  I will be ordering this while touring the North End, this weekend.  Salute and Cheers to everyone this gray Boston Friday!