Sage and Citrus Shandy

This Sage and Citrus Shandy takes a traditional beer cocktail and pumps it up with three types of citrus and a lightly herbal flavor, for a super refreshing summer drink!

Okay, I’ll be honest.  I don’t love the name of the drink as much as I love the drink itself.  What’s so great about this shandy?  Well, it takes a summer classic and gives it some extra oomph.  It includes not one, not two, but THREE types of citrus for maximum flavor, plus a hint of herbaceousness to make it even more refreshing.

I think I could drink a Sage and Citrus Shandy every day in the summer.  Luckily, it’s very easy to make. The sage flavor comes simply from muddling a handful of the herb with a few other ingredients.  No need to make any infusions or simple syrups – although I’m sure a sage simple syrup would be amazing.  Nope, muddling will give you a light, subtle flavor that totally complements the citrus.  Don’t skimp on the garnish, either!  A few sprigs of sage give the drink a heavenly scent, pushing it from amazing to AHHHHmazing.

The citrus in the shandy comes from lemon juice, orange juice, and a splash of grapefruit vodka.  Fresh squeezed juices are always best, but don’t fret if you ran out of oranges.  The bottled stuff will still give you quite a tasty beverage.

The one problem with the Sage and Citrus Shandy?  Once you try it, it’s tough to go back to a traditional shandy!

So go ahead.  Twist your tongue with the flavor…and name!  Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 oz. orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
• 3 oz. lemon juice (again, freshly squeezed preferred)
• Healthy handful of sage, at least 4 full, leafy sprigs
• 5 oz. grapefruit vodka
• 10 oz. wheat beer, such as Hefeweizen
• Two lemon or orange wedges and extra sprigs of sage, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine orange juice, lemon juice, and sage. Muddle thoroughly.
2. Add grapefruit vodka and a large handful of ice to the shaker. Shake until cold.
3. Strain into two pint glasses. Top off each glass with about 5 oz. of beer (more or less to taste).
4. Garnish with lemon or orange wedges and additional sprigs of sage. Sip and enjoy!

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