She Strengthens

Summer Refreshment in a Glass

When the sun beats down, there’s nothing like a cool, refreshing drink to quench your thirst. Mixologist Ronaldo Colli, co-owner of the Ivy Room in Albany, California, has crafted the perfect summer cocktail, combining watermelon, rosemary, vodka, and Licor 43 for a surprisingly harmonious flavor profile.

A Unique Blend of Flavors

At first glance, the ingredients may seem unusual, but trust us, they work beautifully together. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the herbal notes of rosemary, while the vodka and Licor 43 add a smooth, velvety texture. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer evening or enjoying at a backyard barbecue.

What You’ll Need

Before you start mixing, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

• Ice
• 1 (2-inch piece) rosemary
• 4 (1-inch cubes) seedless watermelon
• 1 1/2 ounces vodka
• 3/4 ounce Licor 43 Cuarenta y Tres liqueur
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 lime wheel, for garnish
• 1 (5-inch-long) rosemary branch, leaves peeled off beginning approximately two fingers from the top, for garnish

Licor 43: A Spanish Liqueur with a Twist

Licor 43 Cuarenta y Tres is a Spanish liqueur known for its warm, spiced notes and subtle vanilla flavor. Typically served on the rocks, it adds a rich depth to this summer cocktail. You can find Licor 43 at high-end liquor stores or online.

Mixing It Up

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to shake things up! Fill a tall glass with ice and set it aside. Muddle the rosemary and watermelon in a cocktail shaker until the watermelon is completely broken up. Add the vodka, Licor 43, and lime juice, plus enough ice to fill the shaker halfway. Close and shake until frosty, about 20 seconds. Strain into the chilled glass and garnish with the lime wheel and rosemary branch.

Enjoy Your Refreshing Summer Cocktail!

With its unique blend of flavors and refreshing texture, this cocktail is sure to become your new summer favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the taste of the season!