This time, Juno has embarked on a journey further south, delving into the heart of the South African winelands. Here, amidst the rolling vineyards and fragrant fynbos, she has been meticulously crafting her latest gin creation. As always, Juno has ventured off the beaten path, sourcing a unique and carefully curated selection of botanicals.
These botanicals, many of which are indigenous to South Africa, are both rare and prized for their distinct flavours and aromas. Some of these botanicals are notoriously elusive, requiring a keen eye and a deep knowledge of the local flora. After months of experimentation and refinement, Juno is delighted to announce that the perfect blend has been achieved.
She eagerly anticipates sharing this exceptional gin with you, inviting you to savor the fruits of her passion and dedication.
Juno Premium Gin
Serves 2
Ingredients:
120ml orange juice (about 2 oranges)
90ml Juno Premium Gin
60ml sugar syrup
30ml lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
120ml sparkling water
Optional: orange wedges to garnish
Method:
Step 1: Shake all ingredients, except sparkling water, together.
Step 2: Evenly divide between two glasses filled with ice.
Step 3: Top with sparkling water, stir and enjoy!
Serves 8
Ingredients:
One-half small round seedless watermelon (about 3-1/2 lb.), peeled and cut into large chunks
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, strained
1/2 cup syrup
8 sprigs fresh mint; more for garnish
200-500ml Premium gin
Method:
Step 1: Working in batches, if necessary, purée the watermelon in a blender or food processor and press the purée through a strainer. You will need about 4 cups of juice—it is fine if there is some pulp in the juice. Chill.
Step 2: Put the lemon juice, simple syrup, and mint in a 3-quart serving pitcher or a punch bowl and mash the mint thoroughly with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Add about 4 cups of ice, the gin, and the watermelon juice and stir.
Step 4: Serve in rocks glasses over ice. Garnish with mint sprigs.
Serves 8
Ingredients:
150g castor sugar
300g fresh or frozen cranberries
200-400ml Juno Premium Gin
1.5 liters soda water
1 orange, cut into slices
handful of ice cubes
Method:
Step 1: Tip the sugar and 150ml water into a saucepan set over a low heat and heat until all the sugar has dissolved. Turn up the heat to medium-low and add the cranberries. Cook, stirring occasionally for 15 mins or until the cranberries have started to break down. Leave to cool, then blitz to a smooth purée using a hand blender, if you like (you can also leave it as is). Will keep in a sterilised sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week.
Step 2: To serve, spoon 1 tbsp of the cranberry purée into each glass, stir in a single or double measure of the gin and top up with the soda water. Garnish each glass with an orange slice and add some ice cubes. Alternatively, mix everything together in a jug and serve.