Figaro With a Fuchsia Finish

1983

The first time I tried the Figaro at Two James Distillery, I knew it had to be featured here. The refreshing flavor is one thing, but the color is downright incredible! The fuchsia (almost hot pink) look comes from the beet and carrot shrub. Dating back to American colonial days, shrubs are “drinking vinegars” made by infusing fruit or vegetables with vinegar for a sharp, tangy flavor. Combined with Two James Old Cockney Gin (which uses 11 botanicals and is distilled with heavy juniper), this drink will blow your mind. Get it while the beet and carrot shrubs are in season — and don’t forget to shout “Figaro” while drinking one (just because it’s fun).

INGREDIENTS:

2 ounces Two James
Old Cockney Gin
¼ ounce simple syrup
½ ounce beet and
carrot shrub (they use McClary Bros. from Ferndale)
½ ounce fig shrub
Splash of club soda

DIRECTIONS:

Throw all of the ingredients into a shaker, and shake that bad boy up. Strain over ice
in a rocks glass, and top with a splash of soda.