Meyer lemons on foodie fridays: sparkling wine

Happy {almost} New Year!
Can you believe it? Another year ending, and a new one about to begin. Where does the time go?
We don’t know about you, but 2011 seemed to zoom by at the speed of light. It feels like yesterday we were skiing with the Griswolds in Steamboat Springs. And then, running our first marathon. Followed by traveling to L. A., Table Rock, and Palisade Wineries. Then watching our friend Heather walk down the aisle. And probably the highlight of our year, running the Aspen Golden Leaf Half Marathon again and shaving our time off by thirty minutes! Even though 2011 was definitely one for the books, we always look at the coming new year with great anticipation. To us there’s nothing better than a fresh start. It’s a chance to set new goals, plan for the future and embrace life to the fullest. After all, isn’t that what life’s all about? Making every minute and moment count because it could be all gone tomorrow? So we would like to propose a toast. Wait a second. Before we do that, we should probably tell you about what the heck it is that you’re drinking. Where are our manners?
Meet the Meyer lemon. He is bold, sexy, and naturally sweet. Mr. Meyer is a citrus fruit native to China that is a true cross between a true lemon and either a mandarin or common orange (source). He became popular back in the 70’s when Alice Waters brought this little fellow back to California and cooked with him in her world-renowned restaurant,Chez Panisse, and people have been wild about him ever since. Now, we all know that you can’t ring in the new year without the reliable cocktail and we knew we wanted Mr. Meyer to be the star of said drink. After searching the “internets” for a way to use this well-rounded lemon, we stumbled upon the reliable concoction. What goes better with lemon than Prosecco? This citrusy, refreshing cocktail will not only bring all of your resolutions to light, but it may also bring many suitors for that midnight kiss. Don’t say we didn’t warn ya. Back to the toast. Raise your glass…please. Here’s to a year filled with adventures, risks, loving relationships, and to finding our own truths. Cheers, and see ya in the New Year!
Sparkling Wine with Meyer Lemons
(adapted from our Recipes)
Serves 6
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 fresh rosemary sprig
1 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice, chilled
1/3 cup chilled vodka
2 cups chilled Prosecco
Directions:
Combine first 3 ingredients in a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Let stand for 10 minutes, remove rosemary. Chill in refrigerator. Combine sugar mixture, lemon juice, vodka, and Prosecco. Stir and serve immediately with lemon garnish.
Happy 2012!
Conclusion: Conclude your festivities with the delightful pairing of sparkling wine and Meyer lemons, a citrus-infused sensation that elevates any occasion.






