Summer Breeze Martini

I was over at Como Conservatory last week and I decided to take a stroll out to the Japanese garden.  As I walked along the path all I could hear was the sound of the water as it flowed through the stream, and a few birds singing to each other in the trees.  I was enjoying the peacefulness of it all, and I could not help but notice how fragrant the air was.  Although it was a hot day, it smelled of fragrant flowers and herbs.  Thanks in part to the lovely flowering bushes along the path and the aromatic thyme carpet that covered part of the ground.  I couldn't help but think how wonderful it would be to have such a place in my own back yard.  

Unfortunately, my own back yard is not so picturesque, but I am happy to have other lovely places to visit.  I decided that a martini was in order yesterday.  I had just had a root canal, and although the root canal itself was not that bad, the shock of the price of it was certainly a big ouch.  

I like to think of pleasant things when the unpleasantness hits like that, so instead of being upset, I decided that I would rather think about the fragrant air and the peacefulness of the garden last weekend when I was making my drink.  I thought it ought to be as aromatic, beautiful and calming as the experience I had had.  

I chose aquavit for a base, as it is so aromatic, and combined it with St. Germain, lavender, lemon and a touch of honey!  I coated part of the rim with lavender as well so I could take in the heavenly aroma as I sipped it.  It was as fragrant as a summer breeze in the garden, and so refreshing!  

Summer Breeze Martini
(Aquavit with Elderflower, Lemon, Lavender and a touch of Honey)
Makes 1

6 ice cubes
4 oz Aquavit
1 oz lemon juice
2 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur 
1 1/2 oz honey lavender syrup*
lavender flowers for garnish (optional)


In a martini shaker add the ice, aquavit, lemon juice, St. Germain, and honey lavender syrup, and place top on shaker. Shake until well blended. Remove glass from freezer and pour the drink into the glass through a strainer, and serve!

*Honey Lavender Syrup:

1/4 cup water
1/4 cup local honey

2 Tbsp dried lavander

Heat water until boiling, remove from heat and whisk in agave nectar and lavander, until nectar is dissolved. Chill well before using in drinks.