This refreshing Lemon & Thyme Spritz is the perfect balance of sweet and sour – enjoy with a measure of gin or limoncello for a cheeky Xmas tipple!

You’ll need:
◾ Harrogate Spring Sparkling Water
◾ 2 Unwaxed Lemons
◾ Sprigs of thyme
◾ 100g Granulated Sugar
◾ 100ml Harrogate Still Water (for the syrup)
◾ Measure of Gin or Limoncello (optional)

Wash the lemons and grate into a jug or glass to collect the rind (watch out for the white pith!) Cut the lemons in half and juice before adding to the lemon zest.

In a saucepan, heat the granulated sugar and still water over a low/medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the syrup comes to a gentle simmer. Turn off the heat and add the thyme and lemon zest mixture – allow the ingredients to infuse for 30 minutes. Strain the mixture through a sieve or muslin cloth and set aside to cool.

Fill glasses with ice and pour a single measure of the cooled lemon and thyme syrup (if you want to add booze, now’s the time to add a shot of gin or limoncello!) Top up your glass with chilled sparkling water and add a sprig of thyme to garnish. Yum!