Our Editor in Chief Toni Tipton-Martin introduced this drink to our team, but she was inspired (2023), Tipton-Martin writes, “I could not resist fidgeting with the Cucumber Splash in so as to up my collins game. Melba Wilson is owner of the iconic Harlem restaurant Melba’s and is the creator of a fried chicken recipe that won Bobby Flay’s competition on his Food Network television program. In her book, Melba calls to muddle a thick slice of cucumber in the bottom of a cocktail shaker, then add Hendrick’s gin, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice. The elderflower’s floral undertones take the place of sugar or simple syrup; it’s a perfect foil for the aromatic gin, which is infused with rose and cucumber … For my version, I upped the gin, lemon, and soda for more punch and a more refreshing effervescence.”
