Polar Blueberry Lavender

Polar Blueberry Lavender is a flavored seltzer, a bubbly mixer with no spirit in it, built around two flavors that sit well beside many spirits: dark berry and floral herb. Flavored seltzers like this usually give a soft, jammy blueberry note up front. The lavender comes in at the edges and works as an aromatic lift more than a sweet flavor. Expect a light, dry finish instead of the sticky sweetness of a soda or a bottled tonic. That makes it a mixer you can add generously without burying the base spirit. Gin is the clearest match. A London dry or a botanical-leaning gin shares juniper, citrus peel and sometimes floral notes with the lavender. Try two ounces of gin over ice with four ounces of this seltzer, a squeeze of lemon, and a lemon twist to sharpen the berry. Vodka is a quieter choice that lets the blueberry lead. A blanco tequila with lime makes a Paloma-style highball with a floral twist. A light rum with mint and lime works as a berry mojito built on seltzer. For a lower-proof drink, top a small measure of dry vermouth or an elderflower liqueur with the seltzer and serve it long. Chill the can or bottle thoroughly before opening, because cold liquid holds carbonation better. Pour gently down the side of the glass and use plenty of large ice, since small cubes melt fast and flatten the drink. A tall highball or Collins glass shows off the color and keeps the bubbles lively. A large wine glass with ice suits a spritz-style build. Garnish with fresh blueberries, a lemon wheel, or a sprig of mint. A few blueberries pressed lightly in the glass before the seltzer goes in adds fruit depth. On its own, serve it over ice with a citrus wedge. It also pairs well with soft cheeses, charcuterie, lemon desserts, and light salads with berries or goat cheese.