This winter mojito combines dark rum, a simple syrup infused with herbs, lime, and soda for a twist on the traditional cocktail. We’ll happily raise a glass to drinking this all year long.

What if I don't have fresh herbs?
If you don’t have an array of herbs on hand or you simply want (need?!) to make this cocktail in a hurry, it can easily be made using standard simple syrup. Follow the winter herb syrup recipe, omitting the herbs. When making the cocktail, muddle the rosemary sprig a bit in the shaker after combining it with the simple syrup to release its flavor. Proceed as directed.
Winter Mojito
Ingredients
- For the winter herb syrup*
- For the winter mojito
Directions
In a small saucepan over low heat, gently combine the herbs, sugar, and water, and stir until the sugar dissolves, 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove from the heat and let the ingredients cool for at least 1 hour so the flavors can mingle. Strain into a glass jar or other resealable container and store in the fridge for up to 1 month.
Toss the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker along with the herb syrup and let it sit for a few minutes. Add the rum, lime juice, and ice and shake.
Strain the cocktail into a collins glass filled with more ice. Top with soda to taste and garnish with lime and a sprig of rosemary. Originally published December 26, 2018.
Recipe Testers' Reviews
This turned out to be a very good cocktail. I made the herb syrup and it really gave the cocktail great herbal notes. The rosemary was in the forefront as expected, but sage was also noticed. The drink was refreshing and not too sweet. Much less sweet than a summer mojito. This was very much to my wife's liking.
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Camilla Maybee
I am most definitely serving this on Christmas!! I adore rosemary, and it's definitely something I consider to be a flavor of the holidays. I'm betting that the herby syrup can also be used for lots of fun mocktails, too!