Maître Liquoriste + Perfumer + Herbalist - Cocktails

By Jackie Zykan

With over 20 years of experience in beverage alcohol, and a love affair with the natural world, I am delighted to share some of Kentucky’s finest pours alongside fresh, local, and seasonal botanicals. 

Each month, a different native Kentucky plant has been highlighted. Not only does this familiarize us with what is immediately around us, but brings us into a deeper connection with this place we call home. September, however, I’ve chosen a flowering shrub that many readers will recognize. Important to note though, this species is in fact not a native. But, then again, technically neither am I. It has been growing on American soil longer than my entire family tree has called North America home, and whether you planted it yourself or not, you may have one in your own yard as we speak. Our local pollinators indulge in its broad blooms, and it has so much to offer, outside of just aesthetic appeal. This time of year can wreak havoc on our immune system, with the season changing upon us as well as stress as we transition out of summer into fall schedules. Luckily, this easy to find flower can support a tasty tonic which can be prepared with or without spirits so that everyone can enjoy what it brings to the table. 

Featured Kentucky Flora: Hibiscus Syriacus (Common Hibiscus, Rose of Sharon) 

These gorgeous blooming shrubs are quite common in the state, and have been a feast for the eyes in America since the 18th century. The plant originated in Korea, then by way of Japan, then Europe, it made its way into North American colonies. To this day this “Korean Rose” is the national flower of South Korea, known for its eternal blooms. Flowers are found in a variety of colors, from blue, pink, white, purple, and various combinations of such. In Kentucky, you can find these blooms from mid-summer all the way to the first frost.

Welcoming one onto your property ensures long lasting flowers to gaze upon and abundant support for bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. With flowering lasting well into the shoulder season, this entirely edible and oh-so-lovely plant also offers up a massive amount of vitamin C just in time to give a boost to your immune system. Although it is a hibiscus, the tea made from the flowers has a very delicate citrus and sometimes nutty flavor as opposed to the intense berry notes we commonly associate with bright red hibiscus teas. The brew is also extremely hydrating due to the mucilaginous compounds found in hibiscus in general. For this month’s recipe, we’re going to lean into the residual heat of summer and embrace the classic preparation technique of making sun tea. 

Rosa del Sol Cocktail 

• 5 oz Rose of Sharon Sun Tea

• 1.5 oz Four Roses Yellow Label Bourbon

• 1.5 oz Yellow Spice Syrup 

Garnish options: lemon slices or peel, Rose of Sharon blossom, candied ginger 

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake briefly, and empty entire contents into tall glass. Garnish with as desired. 

Non-Alcoholic Variation: This recipe is absolutely delicious without the added bourbon, but if you’re looking for a similar flavor sans the buzz, I recommend the Free Spirits brand products “spirit of bourbon” or “spirit of tequila” in this recipe. 

Rose of Sharon Sun Tea 

As always, be mindful to clearly identify what you are foraging. The best time to harvest blooms is in the morning, after the dew has dried. Avoid picking flowers during the peak of the day’s heat, as they will be stressed and not well hydrated.

• 12 blossoms from Rose of Sharon

• 1 quart water

Directions: After picking blossoms, remove the petals from the flower and place in a fine mesh strainer. Lightly rinse petals to remove any debris, and combine with water in a clear glass pitcher with lid. Set outside in a sunny location for a minimumof 4 hours. Strain promptly using a mesh strainer and a coffee filter, and immediately refrigerate. Also note, that the technique of making sun tea is a gentle extraction of plant material however does not reach a boiling point. Therefore, it is crucial to keep the tea refrigerated, and for no more than 24 hours. If you would like to store it for a longer stretch, you can boil the tea after straining to reduce the risk of bacterial growth. Tea can also be frozen immediately after straining and made into ice cubes for a boost of vitamin C in any beverage. 

Yellow Spice Syrup

In embracing the sun’s contribution to our cocktail preparation process, I have intentionally chosen some complimentary spices for the syrup used to sweeten the concoction. These components nourish the solar plexus energy center which regulates self-empowerment, confidence, and joy - all components which can surely use a little love during this time of year as we head back to school and adjust to the slow, steady shortening of daylight. The flavors from common hibiscus blossoms are quite subtle, so in order to maintain balance, this syrup is purposely crafted with that in mind. If you enjoy the flavor profile of the syrup in this recipe, but would like to intensify the flavors for use in bolder libations (such as a syrup to use in your old fashioned…yes please!), simply double the seasoning ingredients and replace the white sugar with raw/demerara sugar.

• 1 ½ cup water

• Peels of 1 lemon (4-5 pieces)

• 1 TBSP dried ginger - or - 1 tsp fresh, grated

• 1 tsp dried turmeric pieces - or - ½ tsp ground

• 1 cinnamon stick - or - ½ tsp ground

• 1 tsp dried chamomile - or - 1 chamomile tea bag

Directions: Combine all ingredients except sugar in a small saucepan on the stove. Simmer on low for 15 minutes, then strain through a coffee filter lined mesh strainer. Add sugar, stir to dissolve. Keep refrigerated.

When foraging wild plants always be completely certain of identification and follow the rule of “when in doubt, don’t.” Only take what is needed, leaving plenty for our native pollinators and fauna. Avoid harvesting from areas which are exposed to pesticides or other chemical applications. The statements in this article are for entertainment purposes only and are not meant to diagnose, treat, or medically advise. Please drink responsibly, you are loved by many.