Mint Rosolio
( Rosolio alla Menta )
In Greek mythology, the mint was the symbol of hospitality. The attractive green colored Mint Rosolio is a refreshing drink and served with plenty of ice on hot days. Mint liquor is also mixed to make cocktails, however since ancient times mint tea or a forerunner of Mint Rosolio that is an infusion with mint, honey and wine was a common remedy for cough and sore throat.
As a child, the Mint Rosolio was captivating my imagination and I liked it for the green color and the cool sensation that it gave to my throat: my mother would give me a tablespoon of it to cure my fake mal di gola- sore throat, or cough.
- Yield2 fifths
- Wines and DrinksMint Rosolio
Ingredients
- About 75 mint leaves (1 ¼ cups)
- 2 cloves, crushed
- 1 qt. 100 proof vodka
- 2 cups of sugar (1 lb.)
- 2 cups of water
Instructions
THE MINT
Carefully sort and discard any bruised mint leaves. Wash thoroughly with cold water. Place in a colander and drain for a few minutes. Gently pat dry with a clean dish towel or paper towels. In a large and airtight jar mix the mint, cloves and the vodka: seal and marinade for 2 days. Place the jar in a cool place and shake it occasionally.
THE SYRUP
In a saucepan, over a medium heat, combine and mix the sugar and the water; keep stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Lower the heat and simmer the syrup for 15 minutes, without boiling it. Set aside to cool.
THE MINT ROSOLIO
Combine the cooled syrup with the mint infusion and strain the rosolio using a paper filter or a piece of cotton cloth or a few layers of cheesecloth; discard the mint and any residue. Bottle and seal the rosolio: it will be ready to use in about two weeks.