Tart Cherry Mojitos

Ingredients

Simple syrup
1 cup	cherry juice from Ontario Pitted Red Tart Cherries	(250 mL)
3/4 cup	white sugar	(175 mL)
Mojito
6	Ontario Red Tart pitted cherries
	Juice of half of a lime
2	mint sprigs	(or 6-8 leaves)
1 tbsp	cherry simple syrup	(15 mL)
2 oz	white rum	60 mL
1/2 cup	broken/chopped ice	125 mL
1/2 cup	club soda or sparkling water	125 mL

tip

 Garnish with lime zest curls, another wedge of lime and a cocktail skewer with tart pitted cherries.

Directions

Simple syrup:

1. In a saucepan, stir together cherry juice and sugar.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for approximately 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir frequently, until sugar is completely dissolved. Set aside.
4. This makes approximately 1.5 cups of simple syrup which may be kept covered in the fridge for 1 week.

Mojito:

1. In a tall glass, place cherries, mint and lime juice.
2. Muddle or mash gently to release flavours. Add cherry simple syrup and rum. If possible, let sit for flavours to develop for up to 30 minutes.
3. Gently add the ice.
4. To create a visual layer between the pink and clear liquid, slowly pour soda or sparkling water over the back of a tablespoon to complete the drink.
5. Enjoy responsibly!