The best part about Texas in the winter is that the temperature rarely falls below 40. On my recent visit home, I enjoyed high 60s and even some mid 70 days. This sort of climate (and proximity to Mexico) allows for delicious, fresh, local produce year round at an unbeatable price.

Recently, I discovered Blanc de Bleu champagne at World Market. This teal-colored bottle of bubbles is naturally flavored and colored with blueberries. It retains its dry champagne-like flavor while being eye-catchingly electric blue. With a love for a bubbles, gin, all things blue, and a humid December Texas day, I figured it was high time to make a refreshing cocktail using all my favorite things.

Ingredients

• 5 leaves of fresh basil
• small handful of local blueberries
• 1 slice lemon (1/4 of a lemon), squeezed
• 5 oz Blanc de Bleu champagne
• 3 ounces gin (Hendrick’s)
• Garnish: small handful of blueberries, 2 basil leaves

Instructions

In the bottom of a rocks glass muddle your basil, berries, and lemon juice. Add gin. Fill glass with Blanc de Bleu champagne. Top glass with fresh basil leaves and blueberries. Serve cold.