Evan Meeker Wins With Gin

Competitions sponsored by liquor distributors are becoming quite popular. After all, it coaxes a faction of our finest mixologists into using the company’s product to create a new concoction. The latest competition was this past Sunday at Townhouse. The contest was sponsored by Bombay Sapphire Gin.

Sixteen bartenders entered the Austin competition aiming to get a chance to participate in a national battle of 40 bartenders happening this August in Las Vegas. The winner will get a picture and profile in the December issue of GQ. Congratulations to the winner here in Austin, Evan Meeker of McCormick & Schmick's, whose Fresh Lavender Gin Fizz wowed the judges.

Meeker explained his concept: “It’s a doctored up version of a Gin Fizz, but with a little fresh lavender for aroma and egg-white for a rich mouth feel. Adding the Elderflower Liqueur and the great aromatics from the Bombay Gin makes for a really complex cocktail.”

For the intrepid home mixologist, here’s the recipe:

Fresh Lavender Gin Fizz

2 Lavender sprigs 1 oz Bombay Sapphire 1/2 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur

And then muddle. Then add

1/2 oz fresh lemon juice 1/2 oz simple syrup 1/2 oz egg white

Shake and strain into an English highball glass. Top with club soda and garnish with a lavender sprig.