My mom turned sixty last February (!), and we’re throwing her a long-awaited family party this coming weekend. My brother, sister and I have been brainstorming surprises for her party, which I’ll keep secret until next week–and I’m also in charge of drinks. Happily, my friend Anna suggested this incredible cocktail, which we’re definitely whipping up this weekend…

The Best Party Cocktail You’ll Ever Have: A Rosemary Gin Fizz

Recipe:
1 cup rosemary simple syrup (Boil one cup of sugar in one cup of water with a couple rosemary sprigs thrown in. Boil until the sugar is dissolved. Let cool.)
1 cup gin
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 bottle of Prosecco (or 2, if you want the cocktail to be lighter)

Stir ingredients together in a punch bowl or carafe, and garnish with sprigs of rosemary.

Delicious! Anna made some last week, and they were light and refreshing, yet still packed a punch. Would be perfect for a garden party or to kick off a dinner party, don’t you agree?

P.S. Ombre balloons, and more best recipes, including bourbon banana bread and chocolate-chunk cookies

(Photos by Laura Ratliff for Cup of Jo. Thanks, Laura!)