Rosemary Tangerine Cooler

The Rosemary Tangerine Cooler is fresh and lightly herbal, with a citrusy twist. It starts with rum and bright tangerine juice, then gets topped with soda water for a crisp finish. A rosemary sprig adds a subtle earthy note that gives the drink a little extra depth without overpowering it. This cocktail is simple, refreshing, and great for warm afternoons or easy evenings outside. The balance of sweet citrus and rosemary makes it feel fresh without being too sweet. Serve it over ice with the rosemary stirred in or gently muddled to bring out more of the aroma.

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Tasting Notes

This Rosemary Tangerine Cooler is light, citrusy, and just a little herbal. The rum adds warmth without being too bold, while the tangerine juice brings a fresh, slightly tangy sweetness. Simple syrup smooths it out, and the soda water lifts everything with a bit of fizz. What sets it apart is the rosemary it doesn’t overpower, but it gives the drink a fresh scent and a slightly savory finish. Crushed ice keeps it icy cold and helps mellow the flavors as it melts. The result is a smooth, easy-to-sip drink with a refreshing feel and a hint of something extra.

Equipment and Glassware

You don’t need much to make this one. A jigger for measuring and a spoon for stirring will do just fine. Use a muddler if you want to lightly press the rosemary before adding it, but that’s optional. A highball or Collins glass works best it gives you space for plenty of crushed ice and soda water. If you want the garnish to stand out, a taller glass makes it easier to tuck in the rosemary sprig. Chill the glass ahead of time for the best result, especially if you’re serving it outside or in warm weather.

Ingredients

• 2 oz rum
• 2 oz tangerine juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• Soda water, to top
• Garnish: rosemary sprig

Instructions

• Fill a highball glass with crushed ice.
• Add the rum, tangerine juice, and simple syrup directly to the glass.
• Stir gently to mix.
• Top with soda water.
• Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh tangerine juice when you can it gives better flavor and color than bottled.
• If you’re prepping for a group, you can mix the rum, juice, and syrup ahead of time and store it chilled, then build each drink over ice and top with soda to serve.
• Use clear soda water for the cleanest taste avoid lemon-lime or flavored versions unless you’re tweaking the recipe.
• Clap the rosemary before garnishing to bring out more of its aroma without muddling.
• Crushed ice works best here, but if you don’t have any, just use small cubes and fill the glass all the way.

When to Serve

This cooler is perfect for warm afternoons, casual get-togethers, or weekend lunches. It’s light enough to drink during the day, but still has enough flavor to hold up in the evening. The citrus and soda water make it refreshing, and the rosemary adds a little twist that makes it feel more interesting than a basic rum drink. It fits in at BBQs, picnics, or any outdoor setting. It’s also a good option when you want something different but still easy to make. Serve it cold and fresh, with plenty of ice, for the best experience.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• For rum, a light or white rum works best. Bacardi Superior, Cruzan Light, or Flor de Caña 4 Year are all solid choices that won’t overpower the tangerine.
• If you want a touch more flavor, you could use a lightly aged rum, but avoid anything spiced it will clash with the rosemary.
• The simple syrup can be store-bought or homemade (1:1 sugar to water, dissolved).
• Use plain soda water, and go with a firm, fresh rosemary sprig dried won’t give the same scent.
• For the juice, fresh-squeezed tangerine makes a big difference, but good quality store-bought will work in a pinch.

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