A good drink at home should feel like a small pleasure, not a project. You don’t need a wall of bottles or a drawer full of equipment. Start with fresh citrus, something cold and a glass you enjoy holding.
We’re Brianna and Frank from Bene Rosa’s Bartenders. Here’s a bright, simple drink we’d make when friends stop by—and the little details that make it taste better.
LIME & MINT HIGHBALL
For one drink:
• 1½ oz gin
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 3 oz cold club soda
• Ice and a sprig of mint
Fill a tall glass with ice. Add the gin, lime and syrup, then stir. Pour in the cold soda and give it one gentle stir. Lightly clap the mint between your palms and tuck it beside the rim. That releases its aroma without turning the leaves into little pieces in your drink.
No jigger? One tablespoon equals ½ oz. Make simple syrup by stirring equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved. Let it cool, then refrigerate in a clean, covered container.
THE SMALL DETAIL THAT KEEPS IT SPARKLING
Save the soda for last. Cold soda and a gentle stir keep more of that lively sparkle in the glass. If you stir vigorously after adding it, the drink can taste flat before you’ve taken your first sip.
Taste before adding anything else. Prefer a brighter drink? Try a little more lime. Too sharp? Add a small splash of syrup. Make one small change at a time so you can tell what you like.
MAKE AN ALCOHOL-FREE VERSION
Replace the gin with 1½ oz chilled, unsweetened black tea. Keep the lime, syrup and soda, then adjust to your taste. The tea adds character of its own; this is a refreshing alternative rather than an exact copy of the gin version.
HOSTING A FEW FRIENDS?
Set out glasses, plenty of ice and the chilled ingredients before anyone arrives. Keep the soda sealed until you need it. Offer water and the alcohol-free option alongside the cocktail so everyone has something inviting to choose.
The best part of hosting is spending time with your people. One drink you enjoy making is enough—you don’t need a long menu to make the evening feel special.
WHEN THE GATHERING GETS BIGGER
For weddings, private parties and corporate celebrations on Florida’s Gulf Coast and in Western Washington, Bene Rosa’s brings the bar team and thoughtful hospitality. You purchase the alcohol; we help plan the bar experience.
Tell us your date, venue, guest count and service hours at https://www.benerosas.com/consultation. Choose “Proposal only” to request a proposal without payment. A proposal request does not reserve your date.
Cheers,
Brianna & Frank Buffone
Bene Rosa’s Bartenders