Perfectly Peared: Pear-Rosemary Sipper

There’s nothing like starting off a holiday celebration—or any occasion for that matter–with a special cocktail and a few nibbles. And whether you float fresh berries atop a glass of bubbly or incorporate a medley of garden herbs into a unique appetizer, finding inspiration from the seasons can turn a good recipe into a really special recipe.

For this autumn sipper that’s where rosemary comes in. With its hint of pine, a whiff of rosemary is redolent of a stroll through the forest. The surprise is that pear is the perfect sweet foil for this sophisticated cocktail.

Over the years, I’ve made a number of simple syrups: lavender, rose-scented geranium, chamomile, and lemon verbena, but I never considered assertive, pungent rosemary until I saw this recipe. This syrup is delicious, and I’m already thinking up more ways to use it throughout the year: winter tea, summer lemonade and—of course—on ice cream.

Here’s to fall. May you enjoy a succulent season!

Pear-Rosemary Sipper

Note: You could also make this drink without liquor by topping off the rosemary simple syrup, pear juice and lemon with a spritzer. In fact, DRY Soda’s herbal Juniper Berry comes to mind.

Makes 2 drinks

• 2 oz. vodka (you could use a pear infused vodka like those made by Grey Goose or Absolut)
• 2 oz. pear brandy (I used the Portland-based Clear Creek Distillery)
• 2 oz. Rosemary Simple Syrup (see below)
• 4 oz. pear juice
• 1 oz. fresh lemon juice
• 2 pear slices, for garnish (optional)
• 2 sprigs rosemary, for garnish (optional)
• Ice cubes

Rosemary Simple Syrup

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• A few sprigs of fresh rosemary, about 4″ long each

To make the Rosemary Simple Syrup:

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and rosemary.  Heat the mixture on medium-high and stir to dissolve the sugar.  Let simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Remove from the heat and let cool completely.  Remove the rosemary sprig once cool and use the syrup as desired.  Extra syrup will keep in the fridge for a few days.

To make the sipper:

1. In a martini shaker or pitcher, add a few ice cubes, vodka, pear brandy, simple syrup, pear juice and lemon juice.  Shake well and strain the drinks into martini or low-ball glasses.
2. Garnish drinks with a rosemary sprig or a pear slice.

Want to sip on more deliciousness? Check out Wanderfood Wednesday!