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Susina Sour

This recipe crafts a sophisticated Susina Sour, a plum brandy-based cocktail combining the warmth of slivovitz with the bright zest of fresh lemon and the aromatic sweetness of honey and orange liqueur. Gin adds botanical depth, resulting in a balanced and refreshing drink, perfectly garnished with rosemary and a maraschino cherry.
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Servings: 4 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: world
Calories: 871
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • ΒΌ cup clover honey
  • 3 oz. fresh lemon juice
  • 3 oz. Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur
  • 3 oz. slivovitz or other plum brandy
  • 2 oz. gin
  • 4 maraschino cherries
  • 4 small sprigs rosemary

Equipment

  • 1 Cocktail Shaker Essential for proper mixing and chilling.
  • 1 Jigger or Measuring Tools For precise liquid measurements.
  • 1 Citrus Juicer To extract fresh lemon juice.
  • 1 Cocktail Strainer To separate ice from the finished drink.
  • 4 Cocktail Glasses For serving (chilled if possible).

Method
 

  1. If using thick honey, gently warm the clover honey with a teaspoon of hot water to create a more liquid consistency, then let it cool slightly.
  2. Measure out the fresh lemon juice, Grand Marnier, slivovitz, and gin precisely using a jigger or measuring cups.
  3. Combine the prepared honey, lemon juice, Grand Marnier, slivovitz, and gin in a cocktail shaker.
  4. Fill the shaker generously with fresh ice cubes.
  5. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the shaker is thoroughly chilled and frosty on the outside.
  6. Place fresh ice in four chilled serving glasses.
  7. Using a cocktail strainer, strain the chilled cocktail evenly into the prepared glasses, ensuring no ice shards from the shaker fall into the drinks.
  8. Garnish each drink with one maraschino cherry and a small sprig of fresh rosemary.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy the complex flavors of the Susina Sour.

Notes

For optimal flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice; bottled alternatives lack the vibrant acidity. The clover honey may be thick; gently warm it or combine with a tiny amount of hot water to ensure it emulsifies smoothly into the cocktail without clumping. Adjust the amount of honey to taste, as palates vary on sweetness. Proper chilling is crucial; shake vigorously with quality ice until the shaker is frosty. Garnish with precision, ensuring the rosemary sprig adds an aromatic lift and the cherry provides a visual pop. Consider chilling your serving glasses beforehand to maintain the drink's temperature longer.