Seersucker

Well, strawberries are back in season but you'd never know it, here in LA, as it is currently 56 degrees outside and I am literally sitting in front of the fire.  Let's call this an experiment, kind of R & D, getting ready for the inevitable summer.  Because it will get hot, or even warm, soon.  And I like to be well prepared.
This drink appealed to me immediately when I read cinnamon bark syrup, (I love making flavored simple syrups!), mixed with fresh, beautiful strawberries.  It's an intriguing juxtaposition of warm and cozy with cool and refreshing.  And since it's cold out, (I'm bored), and I happen to have some strawberries and just the right amount of white rum left in the ole alcohol cache, this was a GO and it is now another welcomed addition to my boozey repertoire.  You'll love this.


SEERSUCKER
Adapted from Brian Miller, mixologist 
Makes 1 drink

1 Organic strawberry, plus more for garnish
2 oz white rum
.5 oz cinnamon bark syrup*
1 oz lemon juice
Splash club soda

In a shaker, muddle strawberry.  Add the rest of the ingredients with ice.  Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice.  Garnish with extra strawberry.

Cinnamon Bark Syrup

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
3 cinnamon sticks

Combine all the ingredients in a small sauce pan.  Bring to a boil,  stirring until sugar dissolves.  Reduce heat to a simmer for 5 minutes.   Strain and refrigerate until needed.