Juneteenth is right around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with two drinks designed by two people of color taking over the spirits industry?
Former NBA forward/center Alan Henderson and his wife Maxine run Henderson Spirits Group and Bollygood respectively. Both companies are dedicated to diversifying the spirits and beverage industries, offering innovative flavors and spirits that reflect the couple's cultural heritage.
See Also: Weekly Recipe: Juneteenth Feast By Chef Megan Brown
This season, the Hendersons joined forces with Monica Saxena, founder of cocktail bar aRoqa in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood, to create two drinks that celebrate diversity and this important holiday. They're both avaiable at aRoqa from Friday to Friday, June 17 to 24, but we also have the recipe right here for folks who can't make it to NYC.
“My company’s mission is to 'Diversify the Bar,'" Alan Henderson says. "Collaborations like this can positively affect conversations. Being exposed to what Juneteenth is can create opportunities for all of us to learn from and with each other."
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The recipes include sparkling beverages from Maxine's company that boast low sugar and natural ingredients.
“A big part of Bollygood’s mission is to spread happiness and culture through our Indian-inspired beverages," she says. "Although I’m not African American, I appreciate having opportunities like this to learn more about my husband’s culture as I continue to share mine."
Try these two recipes for a refreshing and delicious way to celebrate the holiday, or visit aRoqa to have a professional craft them for you!
Desi Spritz
This revitalizing drink mixes the flavors of carrot and honey with Bollywood's sparkling lime, basil and cumin flavor. It's a unique blend of sweet and hydrating ingredients that will have you and your guests going back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1½ to 2 oz. Birdie Brown Plain Hooch
- 1 oz. carrot juice
- ½ oz. lime juice
- ½ oz honey syrup OR simple syrup
- 4 to 6 basil leaves (leaving 2 for garnish)
- 4 oz. Bollygood Lime Basil Cumin Sparkling
Directions: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice except for the Bollygood Lime Basil, and shake cold. In a tall glass filled with fresh ice, pour shaken contents inside and top with Bollygood Sparkling Lime Basil Cumin. Garnish with remaining fresh basil.
Citrus Sensation
Calling all citrus lovers! This sweet and sour cocktail with bourbon, grapefruit juice and mint makes for a citrusy drink with a kick perfect for summer and beyond.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Tom Bullock's Burnt Orange Bourbon
- ¾ oz. fresh grapefruit juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- 3 to 6 mint sprigs
- 4 oz. Bollygood Lemon Ginger Mint Sparkling
Directions: Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker—except for the Bollygood Lemon Ginger Mint—with ice, and shake cold for 10 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice and top with Bollygood Lemon Ginger Mint. Garnish with thin fresh grapefruit peel.
