London will truly come into bloom May 20, when the annual Chelsea Flower Show—a five-day extravaganza celebrating fantastic flora—kicks off. And nowhere will be celebrating with more spirit, or at least spirits, than the Met Bar at the Metropolitan by COMO London hotel.
“The presentation and name are a twist on the classic ‘Mint Julep’ that is famously served over crushed ice in a silver or pewter cup with a large fresh mint garnish,” explains bartender Lewis Wilkinson. “Instead of the pewter cup, we’ve opted for a flower pot, maintained the crushed ice, however chosen to garnish with the more elaborate fresh tulip flowers to complete the aesthetic and illusion of drinking a potted plant.”
The drink, according to Wilkinson, is perfect for the flower show but also makes for a refreshing libation for any springtime tipplers. “Fresh spring flavors of mint, heather honey and Sloe berries make for thirst quenching and flavorsome tipple with unique presentation. It’s great as an early evening aperitif.”
Mint Tulip
10 fresh mint leaves
1/4 oz. sugar syrup
1/2 oz. Drambuie
1 1/2 Chase Sloe Gin
Add all ingredients to flower pot and half fill with crushed ice. Churn ingredients well and top with more crushed ice to fill. Garnish with tulip flowers and serve with straws.
