Liquid Assets: The NC-21 from the Provincial

The NC-21 (No Children Under 21),

from The Provincial

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

BALANCED IN FLAVOR, with notes of vanilla and fruit, the NC-21 is the perfect drink for spring, says Jarrett Twigg, head bartender at the Provincial in downtown Apex.

“It is super light. Though it sounds like it could be on the sweet side, it is cut nicely by the citrus. The egg whites give it a smooth texture, while the sparkling rose gives another layer of flavor. This cocktail gives a nice aroma and is visually beautiful — a perfect cocktail to bring in the spring weather.”

— Jarrett Twigg, head bartender, The Provincial

1½ ounces Ketel One vodka 1¼ ounces fresh lime juice ½ ounce homemade vanilla syrup* 1 ounce passion fruit juice ¼ ounce (1½ teaspoons) egg whites Sparkling rose, such as Los Monteros Cava

Measure the vodka, passion fruit juice, lime juice, vanilla syrup and egg whites in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously for a couple of minutes. Strain into a cold martini glass. Once everything has settled, take a bar spoon and float the sparkling Cava on top.

*To make vanilla simple syrup, combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar and 3–4 tablespoons of vanilla extract. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, until sugar dissolves. Cool completely before using.