Citrus Mint Gin & Tonic

Summer may be drawing to a quick close, but Thursdays will remain thirsty.

This drink is perfect to enjoy poolside during summer's dog days. Although summer is nearly over, how could I resist sharing such a simple mix? A spritz of lemon, followed by a minty cool down --this highball was made to help shake off the heat.

Ingredients
Seagram's Gin
Sanpellegrino Sparkling water
Sprite or 7up
1 medium-sized lemon (cut into wedges)
small bundle of mint leaves

Directions
Muddle mint leaves with a few teaspoons of gin to encourage oil extraction. I used a pestle and mortar and began by pressing the pestle on the mint leaves, while giving a gentle twisting motion. Place muddled mint in desired serving glasses and squeeze in one lemon wedge per glass. Add ice. Finally, pour a desired amount of gin in glasses, along with a 1:1 ratio of sparkling water and Sprite/7up. Garnish with thinly sliced lemon wedges.

Bottom's up! -And a toast to another good summer.