Whiskey Watermelon Cocktail

Remember way back in March when I made my big blogging comeback after a long 7 month absence?  Well I believe I failed to mention that just because I was "back" didn't mean that I would be back to blogging as consistently as I used to.  Which...you might have already figured out by now.  Considering that it is indeed June.

I'm still in that settling phase (even though I've been in Nashville for 7 months) with work, a new house, and so many lovely visitors.  With so much going on it's been a bit hard to carve out time specifically for blogging BUT I'm working at it...And I think I'm slowly getting better!

Other than being a busy busy bee, there is another major reason for the delay.  I haven't had my own space to take pictures, write, and do all of the wonderful things that are associated with putting up these posts.  However, two weekends ago a magical thing happened.  Momma Bear swooped down to Nashville for a last minute surprise visit and helped me create that space I had been so desperately needing.  And guess what?  I'm totally in love with it.  The room sits at the back of the house and is completely filled with windows and a gorgeous view of the back yard and garden.  With so much light, quiet, and coffee back here I have a feeling it will be so much easier to finally sit down and share more recipes with you.

In fact, I have TWO more recipes that have been made and photographed that are just sitting on the back burner waiting to be devoured.  Exciting right?

Moral of this story?  Don't give up on this thing yet.  I'm coming back to you.  Slowly but surely.

Let's move on to the cocktail.



It's purely coincidence that my last two posts have come about after a bloody mary or two.  Sunday = day off = bloody marys = blog posts.  At least it's productive.

This cocktail is for the bourbon lover (me) and was concocted by a good friend and cocktail making connoisseur (who I've promised not to name for fear of an overwhelming amount of fan mail/drink requests).

I completely understand that the whole watermelon/cucumber/basil combination is screaming to be mixed with vodka...BUT this little drink knocked my socks off.  The muddling of the watermelon, basil, and cucumber adds some flavor to the overall simple drink without taking away from the bourbon.  It's light, refreshing, and the perfect non-sweet drink for summer.

So make yourself a cocktail, sit back, and relax.  I'll be back soon!



Makes: 1 drink
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:
2 ounces bourbon (I used Bulleit)
2 small chunks watermelon
1 slice cucumber
2 basil leaves (I used rosie basil)
2-3 dashes bitters
1/2 ounce sweet vermouth                                                                              

Directions:
Muddle the watermelon, cucumber, and basil with a couple dashes of bitters.  Add bourbon and sweet vermouth.  Add ice and stir.