Rosemary Syrup
A simple syrup infused with fresh rosemary, adding a savory, herbal note.
Origin
A bartender's infused simple syrup, made by steeping fresh rosemary in hot sugar syrup, following the same basic technique as other flavored bar syrups.
History
Rosemary syrup follows the same general logic as other herb-infused bar syrups, delivering a consistent, controlled dose of rosemary's strong, piney flavor without the risk of over-muddling fresh sprigs directly in a drink. It became especially popular during the craft cocktail revival's renewed interest in fresh, savory-herb cocktails from the 2000s onward.
Flavor profile
Piney, herbal rosemary flavor in a pourable, sweetened liquid form.
Tasting notes
A controlled, evenly distributed rosemary flavor that avoids the bitterness risk of over-muddled fresh sprigs, blending smoothly into gin and citrus cocktails wanting that resinous, woodsy note.
Substitutes
- Fresh rosemary steeped briefly in warm simple syrup, as a quick homemade version.
- Thyme syrup, for a related but milder herbal substitute.
- A rosemary sprig used directly as a garnish, if only aroma (not added flavor in the liquid) is wanted.
