When we lived in NYC, we escaped frequently during the summer, just to get away from the intense heat.  One year we went driving upstate with no destination in mind, and somehow landed in paradise:  the Mohonk Mountain House. Picture this: a gorgeous Victorian castle built in 1869 in an enchanted forest on the clear blue waters of Lake Mohonk.  Only an hour and a half from Manhattan, our lazy weekend consisted of paddleboating on the lake, horseback ridding on carriage roads, and shameless spa indulgence topped off with amazing food and service.

Today’s summer cocktail recipe comes to us thanks to the talented chefs from the Mohonk Mountain House Restaurant.  Simply delicious and easy to make, it’s a Strawberry and Basil Gin Martini, meant to be sipped and enjoyed at the end of a hot summer day.

Strawberry and Basil Gin Martinis
(Serves 2)

Ingredients:

8 fresh strawberries
10 fresh basil leaves
2 ounces of gin
2 ounces strawberry-infused vodka
1 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 ounce of simple syrup

Preparation:
In a cocktail shaker, muddle strawberries, basil and simple syrup. Add ice and the remaining ingredients and shake well. Strain into martini glasses and garnish each drink with a fresh strawberry.