Muscadine Shrub
Makes 1 quart syrup, enough for about 32 drinks
Our friends at Catering Works used some of our grape vinegar to make this delicious shrub cocktail, which was a hit at our sneak peek event. Serve it with club soda for a non-alcoholic option, or try it with gin or vodka for something with more punch.
Ingredients:
Syrup
4 cups (approximately 1 pound) muscadine grapes
2 cups sugar
1 quart muscadine vinegar
1 ounce fresh thyme
Cocktail
Liquor of your choice (optional)
Sparkling water or sparkling wine
Method:
For the muscadine syrup:
Combine grapes and sugar in large jar with lid. Muddle to break up the grapes and incorporate with sugar. Cover and let sit in a cool dark space for up to 24 hours. Shake occasionally so that sugar dissolves.
Add the vinegar and thyme (or any other aromatics you desire). Cover and shake. Let this mixture steep in cool dark place or refrigerator for about a week (or more) to let the flavors meld.
Using a sieve or cheesecloth, strain the syrup into a jar and discard the solids. This mixture will keep in the refrigerator up to six months (if it lasts that long!).
To serve:
In a rocks glass or wine glass filled with ice, add 1 ounce of syrup. Top with 1 ounce of liquor (if using), and stir. Add sparkling water or sparkling wine to the top of the glass, and serve.