HOW TO MAKE VALLEY OF THE DEER COCKTAIL

The "Valley of the Deer" cocktail is a delightful and aromatic drink, typically characterized by a balance of refreshing and earthy flavors. Here's a recipe to make this cocktail:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz (60 ml) Gin (a botanical gin works best)
• 1 oz (30 ml) Aperol (or another aperitif with a slightly bitter profile)
• 0.75 oz (22 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice
• 0.5 oz (15 ml) Elderflower Liqueur (like St-Germain)
• 2 dashes Orange Bitters (optional, but adds depth)
• Club Soda or Sparkling Water
  
  
  
  
• Ice
• Lemon twist or fresh herbs (like thyme) for garnish
  

Instructions:

1. Chill the Glass: Begin by filling your serving glass (a rocks or coupe glass works well) with ice and water to chill while you prepare the cocktail.

2. Prepare the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, Aperol, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and bitters (if using). Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.

3. Strain and Serve: Empty the ice from your glass and strain the cocktail mixture into the glass.

4. Top with Sparkling Water: Add a splash of club soda or sparkling water to give the drink a refreshing fizz.

5. Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of fresh thyme for a fragrant touch.

Notes:

• Aperol can be substituted with Campari for a more bitter profile.
• Elderflower Liqueur adds a lovely floral sweetness that balances the other ingredients. If you don't have it, you can omit it, but the flavor will be different.

Enjoy the refreshing and complex flavors of the Valley of the Deer cocktail!