Ingredients
For the Rosemary Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 3-4 rosemary sprigs
For the Punch
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup whiskey
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup rosemary syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
- Ice cubes
- Fresh apple slices (for garnish)
- Rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves to create a simple syrup.
- Infuse Rosemary Flavor: Add rosemary sprigs to the syrup and simmer gently for about 5 minutes to infuse the syrup with the herbal aroma and flavor of rosemary.
- Strain and Cool Syrup: Remove the saucepan from heat and strain out the rosemary sprigs. Allow the rosemary syrup to cool to room temperature before using.
- Mix Punch Base: In a large pitcher, combine the apple cider, whiskey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the cooled rosemary syrup. Stir well to blend all flavors together.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture and add more rosemary syrup if you prefer a sweeter punch, stirring to incorporate.
- Add Sparkling Water: Just before serving, gently stir in the sparkling water or club soda to maintain the fizz and freshness.
- Serve Over Ice: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the punch over the ice.
- Garnish and Present: Decorate each glass with fresh apple slices and sprigs of rosemary for a festive and aromatic presentation.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of whiskey and rosemary syrup according to taste or desired strength.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit whiskey and increase apple cider and sparkling water accordingly.
- Make rosemary syrup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
- Serve immediately after adding sparkling water to keep the drink fizzy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American