Swimming Upstream
September 22, 2023
The Swimming Upstream cocktail is a vibrant explosion of flavors, where tequila blanco provides a spirited kick, harmonizing with zesty lime juice. The herbal allure of yellow chartreuse and the warm embrace of ginger syrup create a rich, complex profile. To sweeten the deal, strawberry syrup adds a luscious berry note, balancing the drink with a touch of sweetness. The result is a captivating concoction that's both bold and beautifully nuanced.
Recipe: Julep | Houston
Photo: Jenn Duncan
orange earthy astronomical
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• Glassware: Coupe glass
• Tools: Cocktail shaker and strainer
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig
• Difficulty: ★★★★☆
• ABV: 20-22%
• Updated: September 22, 2023
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This unaged tequila provides a clean, bright agave flavor with a spirited kick, acting as the backbone of the cocktail.
Substitutions:
Mezcal: If you're looking for a smokier, earthier flavor profile, you can substitute tequila blanco with mezcal. It will add a distinctive smoky note to the cocktail.
White Rum: For a milder, more neutral base, you can use white rum. It won't have the agave flavor of tequila, but it will still provide a similar alcoholic kick.
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This herbal liqueur adds a complex layer of flavors, with notes of botanicals, herbs, and a hint of sweetness, creating depth and intrigue in the cocktail.
Substitutions:
Green Chartreuse: While it has a different flavor profile, green chartreuse can be used as a substitute. It is slightly sweeter and has a more pronounced herbal character.
Strega Liqueur: Strega is an Italian herbal liqueur with a similar herbal complexity. It can provide a comparable depth of flavor.
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The lime juice contributes a zesty, citrusy element that balances the sweetness of the syrups and complements the tequila's character.
Substitutions:
Fresh Lemon Juice: If you don't have lime juice on hand, fresh lemon juice can be used as a substitute. While it will alter the flavor slightly, it will still provide the necessary citrusy element to the cocktail.
Lime Cordial: Lime cordial is a sweetened lime concentrate that can be used in place of fresh lime juice. Adjust the quantity to achieve the desired level of sweetness.
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The ginger syrup brings a warm, spicy element that pairs beautifully with the tequila and chartreuse, adding depth and complexity.
Preparation:
Ginger Syrup: Juice whole ginger in a masticating juicer. Once juiced, add equal parts filtered water to make a “juice.” Fine strain to remove any particulates/pulp. Once strained, add 2 parts of white sugar. Mix until dissolved.
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This syrup infuses a luscious berry sweetness, providing a delicate balance to the cocktail's bold and herbal elements.
Preparation:
Strawberry Syrup: Blend strawberries (remove leafy tops) into a purée, then add equal parts filtered water to make a “juice.” Fine strain to remove any particulates/seeds. Once strained, add equal parts of white sugar. Mix until dissolved.
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The rosemary sprig offers a visual touch and a subtle aromatic note that complements the drink's profile without overwhelming it.
Ingredients
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add tequila blanco, fresh lime juice, yellow chartreuse, ginger syrup, and strawberry syrup.
Shake vigorously until mixture is chilled.
Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a rosemary sprig.
Preparation
herbal depths entwine,
zest and warmth in sweet confines,
a dance, a fine wine.
“This cocktail is an exhilarating blend of bold and nuanced flavors. The tequila blanco brings a spirited kick, while lime juice adds a zesty brightness. Yellow chartreuse introduces an herbal complexity, complemented by the warm embrace of ginger syrup. The addition of strawberry syrup offers a luscious berry note, creating a perfectly balanced elixir that's both invigorating and indulgent.
Sipping this cocktail is akin to a lively dance of tequila's vigor and lime's zing, followed by the rich herbal layers of chartreuse and the comforting warmth of ginger. The strawberry's sweet embrace ties it all together, resulting in a symphony of flavors.”
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