Ingredients:

• 1 cup Water

• 1/2 cup Honey

• 6 Fresh Thyme Sprigs

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Honey-Thyme Syrup:

   • Combine water, honey, and thyme sprigs in a small saucepan over medium heat.

   • Stir until the honey dissolves completely and the mixture begins to simmer.

   • Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the thyme.

   • Remove from heat and allow the syrup to steep for an additional 15-20 minutes.

   • Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the thyme.

   • Let the syrup cool to room temperature and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

1. Muddle the Figs and Thyme:

   • In a cocktail shaker, add the quartered figs and two thyme sprigs.

   • Gently muddle to release the fig juices and thyme oils.

2. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add bourbon, lemon juice, and honey-thyme syrup to the shaker.

   • Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled.

3. Strain the Mixture:

   • Double strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice to remove pulp and seeds.

4. Garnish:

   • Add a fresh fig slice, a thyme sprig, and a lemon twist for an aromatic and visually striking finish.

• Serve immediately while the cocktail is cold and the thyme aromas are fresh.

• Optional: For a touch of smokiness, lightly torch the thyme sprig before adding it as a garnish.

• Appetizers: Goat cheese crostini with fig preserves, prosciutto-wrapped figs, spiced nuts.

• Main Course: Herb-crusted lamb chops, roasted chicken with thyme and lemon, fig and blue cheese flatbread.

• Dessert: Fig and honey tart, almond biscotti, dark chocolate truffles.

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Swap bourbon with chilled black tea or a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative.

• Spiced Fig Smash: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the shaker for a warm, spiced version.

• Smoky Fig Smash: Use a smoky bourbon or add a splash of peaty Scotch for added complexity.