With summer’s end fast approaching, Toby and I love experimenting with new ways to use some of this summer’s jams, jellies and preserves in to cocktails. This research will pay off in a few months when we can enjoy a bit of summer on those cold, winter nights.

The herbiness of the rosemary in the jam pairs really well with the gin in this cocktail. I normally like sweet cocktails, but this one has just the right blend of herbal notes with just a slight sweetness from the jam. Great summer cocktail.

Apricot Rosemary Martini

Serves 2

• 2 tablespoons Apricot Rosemary Jam or other fruity herbal jam.
• 3 ounces gin
• 1 ounce bianco vermouth
• 1 ounce lime juice
• Ice

Put all the ingredients in to a cocktail shaker. Shake hard for about 30 seconds. Strain in to a martini glass or cocktail glass and serve with an ice cube or two.