Shadow Citrus Highball

Experience a vibrant collision of brooding dark rum and bracing bitter lemon, uplifted by whispers of rosemary and a flash of charred citrus. The Shadow Citrus Highball is a sophisticated, sessionable cocktail that marries the depth of molasses-rich rum with the effervescence and astringency of bitter lemon. Perfect for late evenings where intrigue and refreshment intertwine. Ingredients: - 2 oz dark rum (preferably with toasty, chocolatey notes) - 4 oz bitter lemon soda (such as Fentimans or Fever-Tree) - 1/2 oz fresh lime juice - 1 barspoon rosemary simple syrup* - 2 dashes orange bitters - Charred lemon wheel (for garnish) - Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish) *Rosemary Simple Syrup: Gently simmer 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 sprigs fresh rosemary until sugar dissolves, then cool and strain. Glassware: Highball glass Directions: 1. Fill a highball glass with ice. 2. Add the dark rum, lime juice, rosemary simple syrup, and orange bitters. Stir gently. 3. Top with bitter lemon soda and give a slow stir to combine. 4. Garnish with a charred lemon wheel and a fresh rosemary sprig for a fragrant finish. Sip thoughtfully, as the bitter citrus and herbal notes awaken the complexity of the rum, leaving a lingering, intriguing finish.