Ume Plum, Lemon, and Elderflower Tonic

MAKES 1 MOCKTAIL

15 ounces high- quality tonic

2 tablespoons ume plum paste (see note)

1/ 4 cup Elderflower and Lemon Simple Syrup

Juice of 2 lemons

This mocktail is a bit like a greyhound, but with a floral essence to it. Ume plum paste has a salty, tart flavor that’s fruity without being sweet. I learned of it from my friend and neighbor Tre Balchowsky. She and I designed a dinner event with rituals around the redwoods

and salmon. We included a significant hike in and out to the event, so we wanted to limit the alcohol intake but also for people to enjoy a sophisticated mocktail. In either a blender or shaker, mix all the ingredients except the ice. Make sure the ume plum paste is thoroughly blended.

Serve in highball glasses over ice.