The airmail cocktail

The Airmail! A classic cocktail that's perfect for sipping on a warm day or evening. Here's a recipe and some fun facts about this refreshing drink:

Recipe:

• 2 oz Gin
• 1 oz Fresh grapefruit juice
• 1 oz Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
• 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice
• Splash of soda water
• Ice
• Lime wheel, for garnish
• Sprig of rosemary or grapefruit twist, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, grapefruit juice, honey syrup, and lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of rosemary or a grapefruit twist, if desired.

Fun Facts:

1. The Airmail cocktail is believed to have originated in the 1920s, during the golden age of aviation. It was allegedly created by a bartender at the famous Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans.
2. The name "Airmail" likely refers to the idea of sending airmail letters, which were a novelty at the time. The cocktail's ingredients evoke the idea of a letter being carried by air, with the grapefruit and lime juices representing the postal service's red and blue colors.
3. The Airmail is often described as a "summer cocktail" due to its refreshing and citrusy flavors. It's perfect for sipping on a warm day or evening.
4. You can adjust the amount of honey syrup to your taste, depending on how sweet you like your cocktails. Some people prefer a lighter touch, while others like it sweeter.
5. The Airmail is a great cocktail for those who enjoy gin, as it showcases the spirit's botanicals without overpowering the other ingredients.

Enjoy your Airmail cocktail and toast to the thrill of flight and the joy of sipping a refreshing drink on a warm day!