This is the time of year when it’s actually possible to get fresh, ripe peaches instead of the rock-hard fuzzy lumps they call peaches the rest of the year. When I’m not eating peaches, I’m drinking them. Peaches and hot weather are meant for each other. Just like bubbly Collins cocktails and summer go hand in hand. So bring the two together and you have some kind of super summer cocktail!
(A Tom Collins is made with gin, so I’m taking some liberties in calling this a Collins. I guess I could have called it a vodka Mojito, I guess. Whatever. Effervescent vodka drinks don’t seem to have a special name. Or if they do, I don’t know it. Shutting up about that now …)
Peach Vodka Collins
1 1/2 ounces vodka
1 ounce peach syrup*
1/2 ounce lemon juice
club soda (about 4 ounces)
Fresh peach slices
Mint sprig
Fill a Collins glass with ice and pour in all ingredients, one at a time. Slightly mash the peach slices, then place them in the drink. Garnish with mint.
*Peach Syrup (makes about 3/4 cup)
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 peach, pitted and sliced
Boil all ingredients for 5-7 minutes. Let the mixture cool, then strain out the peaches and set them aside for another use (like dessert topping). Refrigerate. Add a tablespoon of vodka, if desired, to make the syrup keep longer.