Plum Blossom Soju Spritz

**Description:** This cocktail pays homage to the delicate balance of flavors found in traditional Korean cuisine. Featuring the sweetness of Korean plums, the herbaceous notes of Soju, and a hint of floral aroma, the Plum Blossom Soju Spritz is both refreshing and elegant. It's perfect for those looking to explore Korean flavors in a sophisticated way. **Ingredients:** - 2 oz homemade Korean Plum Syrup (recipe below) - 1.5 oz Soju (preferably Jinro or Chum Churum) - 0.75 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 oz club soda - 2-3 drops of rose water - Fresh plum slices for garnish - Edible flowers for garnish (optional) **Homemade Korean Plum Syrup:** - 1 cup Korean plums (Maesil or green plums, pitted) - 1 cup sugar - 1 cup water *Process to make the Korean Plum Syrup:* 1. Wash the Korean plums thoroughly. Pit and chop them into small pieces. 2. In a small saucepan, combine the Korean plums, sugar, and water. 3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then lower the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the plums have broken down and the syrup has thickened slightly. 4. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids. 5. Let the syrup cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to a clean bottle or jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. **Instructions:** 1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Pour in the Korean Plum Syrup, Soju, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. 3. Add the drops of rose water to the shaker. 4. Shake well until the mixture is well-chilled. 5. Strain the mixture into a chilled Collins glass filled with ice. 6. Top with club soda and stir gently to combine. 7. Garnish with fresh plum slices and edible flowers. **Type of Glass:** Collins glass Enjoy the Plum Blossom Soju Spritz as a beautiful and flavorful introduction to the essence of Korean ingredients!