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Refreshing Nectarine Rosemary Vodka Cooler

nectarine rosemary vodka cooler - featured image

A cooling, subtly sweet, and herbaceous summer drink combining juicy nectarines, fragrant rosemary, and crisp vodka for a refreshing cocktail perfect for hot days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium-sized fresh nectarines, ripe but firm
  • 23 fresh rosemary sprigs, bright green and aromatic
  • 1 cup (240 ml) vodka (e.g., Titoโ€™s or Ketel One)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) simple syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chilled sparkling water (club soda or lightly flavored)
  • Ice cubes as needed
  • Optional garnish: extra rosemary sprigs and thin nectarine slices

Instructions

  1. Wash and pit the nectarines, then cut into 1-inch chunks (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing glass or pitcher, add nectarine chunks and 2 rosemary sprigs. Gently muddle to release juices and rosemary oils without pulverizing (about 3 minutes).
  3. Add 1 cup vodka, 2 tablespoons simple syrup, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice. Stir well to combine and dissolve syrup (about 2 minutes).
  4. Optional: Chill the mixture in the fridge for 5-10 minutes to infuse flavors.
  5. Fill serving glasses with ice cubes.
  6. Strain the infused mixture into glasses, leaving behind muddled bits and rosemary stems.
  7. Top each glass with about ยฝ cup (120 ml) chilled sparkling water and stir gently (about 1 minute).
  8. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and a thin nectarine slice. Serve immediately (about 2 minutes).

Notes

Muddle rosemary gently to avoid bitterness. Use ripe but firm nectarines for best flavor and texture. Chill ingredients to keep the drink refreshing longer. Adjust simple syrup to taste depending on nectarine sweetness. Can prepare base mixture up to 24 hours ahead, adding sparkling water and ice just before serving. Substitute peaches if nectarines are out of season. For a non-alcoholic version, omit vodka and increase sparkling water or add white grape juice.

Nutrition

Keywords: nectarine vodka cooler, rosemary cocktail, summer drink, refreshing cocktail, easy vodka drink, muddled cocktail, summer cooler