Zahav Lemonnana Cocktail Recipe (Jim Beam Black Bourbon)

By Flavor My Taste Staff

February 15, 2024

Zahav Lemonnana Cocktail Recipe (Jim Beam Black Bourbon)
Transport yourself to the lively streets of Philadelphia with a refreshing sip of the classic Zahav Lemonnana Cocktail. This beloved concoction originates from the renowned restaurant Zahav, where it captures the essence of summer in a glass. Our version kicks it up a notch, infusing the timeless blend of lemon, mint, and verbena with the rich, smooth notes of Jim Beam Black Bourbon. The smoothness of the bourbon complements the zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, creating an inviting bouquet of flavors that dance on the palate. Perfect for warm afternoons or as an elegant evening soother, the Zahav Lemonnana is not just a drink, it's an experience that evokes the charm of a Philadelphia summer.

Experience Philadelphia's Zahav Lemonnana Cocktail

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with the classic Zahav Lemonnana Cocktail. Hailing from the bustling streets of Philadelphia, this drink captures the very essence of the season with its refreshing blend. Our rendition of Zahav's signature cocktail incorporates the rich tones of Jim Beam Black Bourbon, providing a unique twist on the traditional recipe. Perfect for those warm afternoons or as a sophisticated evening refreshment, the Lemonnana offers a flavor experience that is both invigorating and soothing. 
The integration of mint, lemon, and verbena results in a fragrant bouquet that complements the smoothness of the bourbon. These ingredients not only infuse the cocktail with their distinctive aromas, but also offer an array of health benefits. Mint is known for its digestive aid while lemon is rich in vitamin C, and verbena is celebrated for its calming properties. This cocktail doesn't just taste good, it's a concoction of well-being infused in a single glass! 

Indulging in the Richness of Jim Beam Black Bourbon

Delving into the Zahav Lemonnana, the choice of Jim Beam Black Bourbon is not one to overlook. This premium bourbon stands out for its full-bodied flavor profile that includes notes of caramel and warm oak, enriching the cocktail with a velvety texture that truly elevates the drinking experience. Known for its smoothness and slightly higher proof, Jim Beam Black selectively complements the zestiness of the lemon and the coolness of fresh mint and verbena, resulting in a perfectly balanced taste. 
When preparing this cocktail, considering the flavor profile of your bourbon is essential. Jim Beam Black Bourbon, with its blended richness, works harmoniously with the other fresh ingredients to create a harmonious marriage of flavors. Such attention to detail distinguishes a good cocktail from a great one, underscoring the importance of selecting quality spirits for your mixology ventures. 

Fresh Mint & Verbena: A Symphony of Flavors

Imagine the freshness of a garden in your glass—that's what the Zahav Lemonnana cocktail delivers with its generous use of fresh mint and verbena leaves. The mint offers a brisk coolness that cuts through the richness of the bourbon and the tartness of the lemon, while the verbena adds a delicate, lemony layer that weaves more complexity into the drink. Together, these herbs don't just garnish the cocktail but are instrumental in infusing it with an irresistible summer vibe. 
As with all herb-infused cocktails, the technique of muddling is key. It's important to muddle the mint and verbena leaves gently to release their essential oils without turning the leaves into a bitter mash. This subtle action is just one of the many small steps that make a significant impact on the final flavor of the drink. For those looking to enhance their mixology skills, mastering the art of muddling is a vital step. 

Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Lemonnana Variations

The Zahav Lemonnana is not just for bourbon lovers; it's versatile enough for a non-alcoholic rendition as well. By omitting the Jim Beam Black Bourbon and adding more soda water, you can enjoy a version of this cocktail that is just as refreshing and vibrant as the original. This alternative is perfect for guests who prefer to indulge without the alcohol, ensuring everyone can take part in the taste of Philadelphia summer. 
For those with a sweeter palate, you have the flexibility to adjust the simple syrup quantity to suit your taste. This adaptability makes the Lemonnana a seamless fit for various preferences, proving that a great cocktail is not just a set recipe, but a customizable experience. By accommodating different tastes, the Zahav Lemonnana positions itself as a crowd-pleaser in any setting. 

Zahav Lemonnana Cocktail Recipe (Jim Beam Black Bourbon)

Prep time: 5 minutes | Total time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

Makes 1 Cocktail
  • 2 oz Jim Beam Black Bourbon
  • 10 fresh mint leaves
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • 5 fresh verbena leaves
  • A splash of soda water
  • 1 cup crushed ice

Instructions

  • 1 In a highball glass, muddle the fresh mint and verbena leaves gently to release their flavors.
  • 2 Fill the glass with crushed ice.
  • 3 Pour in the Jim Beam Black Bourbon, fresh lemon juice and simple syrup over the ice.
  • 4 Top with a splash of soda water and stir gently to combine the ingredients.
  • 5 Garnish with a sprig of mint or a lemon wheel.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and increase the quantity of soda water. Alternatively, for a sweeter taste, you could add more simple syrup to balance the tartness of the lemon.