Winter Spiced Citrus Cocktail

I rarely create my own cocktails, but this last weekend when entertaining some house guests, something came over me — I was inspired to throw a drink together with the mini blood oranges I had just picked up at the store.

The beautiful color and flavors here make the perfect February drink. It’s still cold out, so the taste of bitters like allspice and and clove bring a warmth to the bright, wintry base of citrus. My friends described it as an extra flavorful and seasonally appropriate gin & tonic (and I agree).

I started by mixing together some citrus I needed to juice before it expired, including naval oranges and lemons, plus some of the blood oranges. I then remembered some bitters & soda I had in the fridge from Hella Cocktail Co and an idea started coming together. I love playing bartender!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

1.5 oz juice (mixed from 2 naval oranges, 1 lemon, and 3 blood oranges)
.5 oz simple syrup
1 oz gin (I love the Botanist)
Hella Cocktail Co dry aromatic bitters & soda (notes of allspice and clove)
Sliced citrus and thyme to garnish

HOW TO DO IT

Place a large ice cube in your glassware of choice. Add the juice, simple syrup, and gin and stir to combine. Top with the bitters & soda and garnish with more citrus and fresh herbs. So simple! And delicious. The perfect aperitif before a cozy dinner.