Fernwoods Gimlet

Level of Complexity: Cocktail Connoisseur

A refreshing summer gimlet, inspired by the Fernwood neighbourhood gardens in Victoria. The fennel combined with the herbal flavour profile of the Genever gin makes for a layered, yet light cocktail with hints of chocolate & anise. 

Ingredients


Method 

Chill a coupe glass in the freezer 10 minutes before making the cocktail. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker starting with the least expensive in case you make a mistake (so the bitters, then the lime, then the purée, then finally the Genever). Top with ice and shake for 10-15 seconds.  Double strain in to the chilled the coupe glass and garnish with the fennel sprig. 


*Sweet Fennel Purée

(makes enough for 12 cocktails)

  • Two medium sized fennel bulbs - roughly chopped 
  • 300g raw cane sugar 
  • 200ml water 
  • Pinch of salt

Method 

In a bowl, massage the sugar in to the chopped fennel, cover and leave in the fridge for 4 hours.  This draws out a lot of flavour from the fennel and makes a more punchy purée.   Put the macerated fennel in a pot and add the water.  Bring to a boil then simmer for 3 minutes or until the sugar is fully dissolved.  Leave the pot to cool down for 30 minutes then add to a blender, add the salt and blend in to a smooth purée.  This could take a couple of minutes depending on your blender.

Strain through a very fine sieve using the back of a ladle ( I recommend a Chinois strainer), leave to cool then cover well and pop it in the fridge. Try it on chocolate ice cream!