Mint-Lemon Balm Syrup = memories of a castle hike {Hocheppan Alto Adige}

Oh the sweet memories of vacation...I am so glad that it is still summer, giving me time to recreate this delicious syrup.  Minty - yet lemony Mint & Lemon Balm Syrup; good things both are growing like weeds in our yard :)  The girls first taste of this delicious drink was at our hike to Hocheppan, Sued Tirol {Alto Adige}.  Let me just say it was a well deserved break - we hiked down a very steep canyon from Perdonig to Hocheppan then after a break continued on to Schloss Boymont and then back to Gasthof Steinegger our hotel. This was the longest, most difficult hike of our trip however it was so worth it; as a side note if you go on this hike be sure to wear sturdy shoes :).

Now take  a look at the castle {can you find Alena}....

There are not that many pictures of our hike as -
shame on me - the battery ran out -> ooops for not charging the battery properly....but Ron did make a video of Mia Rosie's favorite friend Sascha on the visit...

Anyways now we are back in Portland and I have memories of that delicious drink.  Mint-Lemon Balm Syrup in sparkling water - oh yes. I am happy to report, that the experiment of recreating the syrup worked out :)

We first harvested the herbs in our garden, washed the lemons, cut them, brought the mixture to a boil and let it sit for a couple of days....

Mint-Lemon Balm Syrup

• 1 Bunch of fresh mint 
• 2 Bunches of fresh lemon balm
• 5 organic lemons washed, and sliced
• Large pot
• 10-3/4 C of water
• 4-1/2 lbs. sugar
• app. 5 wide mouth quart sized canning jars {I ended up with three jars and three bottles}

1. Rinse herbs, then pluck the leaves off and place in the large pot
2. Add the lemon slices, and water to the pot
3. Bring to a rolling boil, cover and remove from the heat
4. Leave covered for two days at room temperature.  Stir occasionally
5. Remove herbs, as well as lemons from the mixture.
6. Place the pot back on the stove, adding the sugar.  Bring mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently.  Boil for about 5 minutes then remove from the heat and fill the syrup into prepared jars and bottles. 
7. Prior to filling the jars and bottles, place cheesecloth on top of the jar/bottle.  Be careful not to burn yourself.  The syrup is very hot!
8. Add to Sparkling Water, or Prosecco, or White Rum, or.....the options are endless :)

Enjoy!