Hess's Kumquat Refresher

HESS'S KUMQUAT REFRESHER

    My Best friend Matt Hess was my inspiration for this cocktail.  For some reason I knew he would enjoy a cocktail with Kumquats, this drink is a lot like him, kinda silly (just say the word Kumquat without smiling), down to earth (this is how Thyme is grown), and someone who has always brought out the best of times (what happens when you enjoy this cocktail with friends and family).  When we think of how we should spend time with loved ones, he has always been my go to.  I wanted to show my home skillet (inside joke for us) that ever since I have been able to call him family, my life has just been outstanding and I can't wait for all the great times we will have.  So, when you make this cocktail, find your friends that have been there through thick and thin and see how many amazing memories you can make and enjoy.

    Now, is when I explain to you what you need to repeat this delicious cocktail.  You are going to need Vodka (as always I enjoy Tito's Handmade Vodka), when it comes to Thyme and mint, try and get the freshest available (if you grow your own, make sure you wash it before using it, even if you buy it from a local Farmers Market, always rinse off the Thyme before using).  Fresh Kumquats should be firm to the touch and bright orange with no bruising or dark spots, always use your handmade Simple Syrup (the recipe is in an earlier blog so feel free to use that as a cheat sheet for yours). 

    Alright, now I think you are ready for the measurements used in this Cocktail.

• 1 1/2 oz Vodka (use your favorite Vodka)

• 2 Kumquats cut in half 

• 2 fresh mint leaves and 2 Thyme leaves pulled from the stalk

• 1/2 oz Homemade Simple Syrup

    Rim your Rocks glass with Mint for Aromatics, Once you've rimmed the glass add Kumquats, Mint, Thyme, and Simple Syrup to glass and give a quick muddle (you don't want to muddle so the Mint and Thyme turn into mush, just muddle enough to help bring oils out of Herbs).  Add ice and Vodka to Rocks glass, pour Cocktail into Shaker and give hard shake for 5 seconds.  Pour entire Cocktail back into Rocks glass.  Finally, ALWAYS enjoy these Cocktails with your family and friends.  Please don't forget that life is supposed to be enjoyed every day, even if it is for an hour make sure you always take time to sit back and enjoy yourself!!!!!