Tiger Tonic Tuesday

This Tuesday's Tiger Tonic is the "The Perfect Tailgate Cocktail" (according to Garden and Gun Magazine). Frequently fans develop a Gameday habit of purchasing a case of Bud Light, or sticking to a simple Jack and Coke. Why not mix it up with this unique cocktail? Even better, use a Mason jar (as shown) to serve it in! Although the drink requires some pre-tailgate prep to create the ginger syrup, I think you will thank yourself for mixing it up from the norm. Raise a glass and raise your standards for this delicious Tiger Tonic!

The Perfect Tailgate Cocktail
Ginger Syrup
½ cup sugar (fine turbinado)
½ cup water
¼ lb. fresh ginger root (peeled and finely grated)
In a small saucepot bring the sugar, water, and ginger to a boil. Turn off the heat, and allow to steep and cool for one hour. Strain off the ginger pieces, and reserve the syrup.

Cocktail
Large ice cubes
3 oz. Maker's Mark (Evan Williams, Bulleit, and Old Rip Van Winkle are solid alternatives)
1 tbsp. ginger syrup
2 slices fresh ripe pear
2 oz. soda water
Fill a 10 oz. glass with ice. Add Maker's Mark and ginger syrup, and stir. Add pear slices, and pour soda water to the top of the glass. Stir gently.