Grenadine is a non-alcoholic syrup made from the pulp of pomegranates- and most store bought varieties (Rose’s being the most common) are chalk full of nasty high fructose corn syrup and artificial red coloring. In mixology, it’s usually used as floater for its sweetness and red color. Very few popular highballs call for grenadine, but it can be found in some common cocktails, such as Tequila Sunrises, Singapore Slings, the Brain Hemorrhage, and Jack Rose’s, to name a few. However, it’s often used in non-alcoholic cocktails, like the Buck Rogers, Roy Rogers, and Shirley Temple, and is good to have on hand if you’re catering a party.
Scratch grenadine has a gorgeous ruby red color and an amazingly rich, tart flavor. I suggest making your own for the perfect all-natural highball or mixed drink. Here is the recipe:
1. Bring 2 cups of organic pomegranate juice to a boil in a saucier. Reduce to low-medium heat.
2. When the juice has reduced to about half of its original volume, stir in 1 cup of organic, unbleached cane sugar. Continue to stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and funnel into an appropriate storage bottle. I like to use empty vodka bottles, that way you may attach a speed poorer for making cocktails. Remember, always cover your speed poorers with tinfoil for prolonged storage. Store your homemade grenadine in your fridge (this isn’t Rose’s, and will not keep indefinitely). Can be good in the fridge for up to two months.
Happy Cocktailing!
- Carly
