There’s a short window each year where figs are at their best. Soft, sweet, and just a little indulgent, they feel made for slow afternoons and early evenings. Behind the bar, it’s an ingredient we reach for often at this time of year. Not to overcomplicate things, but to add something deeper. Warmer. A little more considered.
One of the easiest ways to bring figs into your drinks at home is with a simple syrup. Done well, it gives you that rich, jammy sweetness without overpowering a drink. The best part is you don’t need many figs to make something that goes a long way.
To make it, gently heat one cup of water with one cup of sugar in a small saucepan, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Once the liquid is clear, take it off the heat. Slice four to five fresh figs and add them straight into the warm syrup. Let them steep as the liquid cools. This is where the flavour develops, drawing out that soft, earthy sweetness without turning the fruit heavy or overcooked. Once cooled, strain into a clean jar and keep it in the fridge. You will have more than enough to use across the week.
The Fig Spritz
The drink we keep coming back to is a Fig Spritz. It is simple, fresh, and quietly impressive. The kind of cocktail that doesn’t ask for much, but delivers every time.
You’ll need:
30ml Underground Signature Gin
20ml homemade fig syrup
Soda water
Method:
Build over ice in a glass.
Add the gin and fig syrup, then top with soda water.
Give it a gentle stir. Garnish with a fragrant sprig of thyme.
That’s it. It is light and aromatic, with just enough sweetness from the fig to soften the edges of the gin, while the soda keeps everything lifted and refreshing. It is an easy drink, but one that feels considered.