Sonoma Syrup

Sonoma Syrups: Summer Cocktail Secret Weapon

A while back we told you about Stirrings, the all-natural drink mixers from Massachusetts. Now we're going to introduce you to our other secret weapon when it comes to making summer cocktails (and it usually does): gourmet Sonoma Syrups. When we tell you that we willingly pay extra to have this stuff shipped clear across the country you'll realize this isn't just a bunch of sugar water. Based in California wine country, Sonoma makes handcrafted, small-batch, natural syrups and extracts that really make certain drinks sing.

We wouldn't think of making a margarita or mint julep with anything else, for one thing, and if you want to get really creative with something like a pomegranate martini, their infusions are indispensable. We use their classic simple syrup, made from pure cane sugar, filtered water and a hint of vanilla, in place of the chemical-laden bar sugar that many drink recipes call for. It dissolves better, tastes better and complements top-shelf spirits. We're also told that Sonoma's syrups have lots of non-alcoholic applications, but we'll just take their word on that one.

Gallery: Sonoma Syrup Co.