As a bartender, I've seen my fair share of drinks come and go. Some are classics that never go out of style, while others are trendy and short-lived.
But there's one type of cocktail that always catches my eye: floral gin cocktails.
There's something about the delicate aroma of flowers that elevates a cocktail to another level. Whether it's the sweet scent of lavender, the citrusy notes of elderflower, or the boldness of rose petals, floral ingredients can add complexity and depth to a drink.
And when you combine them with the botanicals of a good gin, you get a match made in heaven.
But not all floral gin cocktails are created equal. Some can be too sweet or overpowering, while others lack balance or complexity.
That's why I've spent countless hours experimenting with different recipes, trying to find the perfect mix of ingredients that will create a drink that's both refreshing and satisfying.
In this blog post, I'll share some of my favorite floral gin cocktail recipes, along with tips on how to make them at home.
Whether you're a gin lover or just looking for a new drink to try, these cocktails are sure to impress. So sit back, pour yourself a glass, and let's explore the world of floral gin cocktails together.
1. Honey Lavender Gin Lemonade
The Honey Lavender Gin Lemonade is a refreshing and delightful cocktail that is perfect for spring and summer. This cocktail is made with a honey lavender lemonade, which is then topped with Empress 1908 Gin. The gin is handcrafted with eight natural botanicals, including butterfly pea blossom, which gives the gin a unique and stunning indigo hue that changes to bright lavender, soft pink, or fuchsia when you add citrus or tonic.
This cocktail is lightly sweet, a bit florally and earthy, and an all-around delicious drink. The Honey Lavender Gin Lemonade is a must-try for anyone who loves floral gin cocktails or is looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to enjoy during the warmer months.
2. Rose Water and Gin Cocktail
The Rose Water and Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and unique floral cocktail with a delicate and aromatic flavor achieved by using rose water and fresh lemon juice. The rosewater simple syrup adds a sweet and floral taste to the drink, while the botanical gin complements the rose water perfectly.
This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from bridal showers to Valentine's Day celebrations. If you are a fan of floral cocktails, this Rose Water and Gin Cocktail is a must-try.
3. Elderflower Gin Fizz
The Elderflower Gin Fizz is a refreshing and floral cocktail that is perfect for springtime. With a tangy and slightly fruity taste from the elderflower liqueur, this cocktail is perfectly balanced with the flavors of gin and lemon.
The use of butterfly pea-infused gin like Empress gives this drink a beautiful and vibrant color, making it a great choice for any get-together or celebration. The addition of seltzer gives it a refreshing fizz that is perfect for a hot afternoon. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves floral and refreshing drinks.
4. Hibiscus Gin Sour
The Hibiscus Gin Sour is a refreshing and beautiful pink cocktail with a delightful floral fragrance. It's easy to make and requires only a few ingredients.
The use of dried hibiscus flowers adds a unique flavor and turns the ice ring hot pink. The cocktail is perfect for happy hour, brunch, and parties. It's a must-try for anyone who loves gin and wants to experiment with floral flavors.
5. The French Tart
"The French Tart" is a unique and refreshing elderflower cocktail that combines the herbal notes of gin with the sweet and sour flavors of grapefruit and lemon juice. The cocktail is made with G'Vine Nouaison, a French gin made from grapes, which adds a rich fruity body to the drink.
The floral notes of the gin are complemented by the addition of sage bitters, giving the cocktail an interesting depth of flavor. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and tart drink with a hint of herbal notes. If you're looking for a floral gin cocktail that's both refreshing and unique, "The French Tart" is definitely worth a try.
6. Sweet Beet + Gin Martini
The Sweet Beet + Gin Martini is a unique and surprising cocktail that is sure to impress any gin lover. The slightly earthy flavor of the beets is perfectly balanced with a sweet simple syrup, making it a perfect match for the herbaceous and floral notes of the gin. This cocktail is a great alternative for those who are tired of the classic gin and tonic.
The fresh lemon adds a refreshing twist to this creative cocktail, making it a perfect choice for a warm summer evening. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even serve it with an egg white float for a fluffy and sweet finish. Don't let the beets scare you away, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious gin cocktail.
7. Lavender Gin Cocktail
The Lavender Gin Cocktail is a delightful drink that is perfect for those who love floral and citrus flavors. Made with Empress gin, lemon juice, and lavender simple syrup, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The color of the drink transforms before your eyes when the gin is added, making it a great conversation starter.
The addition of egg white gives it a frothy texture, making it a luxurious and elegant drink. Topped with dried lavender flowers, this cocktail is not only pleasing to the taste buds but also to the eyes. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail, the Lavender Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Cherry Blossom Gin Cocktail
The Cherry Blossom Gin Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that celebrates the arrival of spring. This cocktail is inspired by the classic gin cocktail Aviation and is made with gin, maraschino liqueur, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and bitters. The pink gin used in this recipe gives the cocktail a beautiful blush color, reminiscent of the cherry blossoms that bloom in spring.
The addition of lavender bitters adds an extra layer of complexity to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm spring day, and its floral notes make it a great choice for those who enjoy light and refreshing drinks. If you're looking for a cocktail that captures the essence of spring, the Cherry Blossom Gin Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
9. Gin Mojito Cocktail
The Gin Mojito Cocktail is a refreshing and floral drink that is perfect for summer. Made with G'vine Floraison gin, this cocktail has a sweet and delicate taste with hints of cardamom and ginger. The gin itself is unique, infused with rare grapevine and other botanicals.
Although the cocktail is missing the mint element, it's still a great drink to enjoy. The warm and woodsy aroma of G'vine Nouaison gin is also worth trying in this cocktail. Overall, the Gin Mojito Cocktail is a must-try for gin lovers and those looking for a refreshing and floral drink.
10. Pear-Elderflower Gin & Tonic
The Pear-Elderflower Gin & Tonic is a sweet and smooth cocktail that is perfect for those who love a classic G & T but with a fruity twist. The addition of fresh pear and elderflower liqueur provides extra fruity notes that transform this traditionally dry cocktail into a sweet and smooth adult beverage.
The cocktail is easy to make and requires a few simple bar tools like a muddler and cocktail shaker. It's a fancy cocktail that you can't miss and is sure to win over G & T skeptics. If you're looking for a refreshing and fruity twist on a classic cocktail, the Pear-Elderflower Gin & Tonic is definitely worth a try.
11. Color Changing Shimmery Phoenix Cocktail
The Color Changing Shimmery Phoenix Cocktail is a magical gin-based drink that changes color and shimmers with the addition of butterfly pea flowers and food-grade white luster petal dust.
The use of elderflower syrup adds a sweet and floral flavor, and a flaming cinnamon sprinkle adds theatrics. The fruity, tangy, and floral flavors make this cocktail a delightful and elegant drink.
12. Lavender Blueberry Gin Sparkler
The Lavender Blueberry Gin Sparkler is a refreshing and visually stunning cocktail that is perfect for summertime sipping. This cocktail features a homemade lavender simple syrup, store-bought blueberry juice, and flavorful botanical gin, topped off with soda water for a bubbly finish.
The use of culinary grade lavender adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the cocktail, making it a standout among other floral gin cocktails. Whether you're a gin lover or looking for a new cocktail to try, the Lavender Blueberry Gin Sparkler is a must-try.
13. The Cardamom Rose Cocktail
The Cardamom Rose Cocktail is a unique and flavorful gin-based drink that combines the floral notes of rose petals with the warm spice of cardamom. The cocktail is made with a Scottish gin that is infused with rose petals and cucumber, giving it a delicate and refreshing taste. The addition of bitters adds a pleasant heat to the drink, while the citrus notes balance out the floral and spicy flavors.
This cocktail is a perfect example of the craft cocktail movement, where bartenders experiment with creative and unusual recipes using fresh juices, seasonal ingredients, and unusual spices and flavors. If you're looking for a floral gin cocktail that's out of the ordinary, the Cardamom Rose Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
14. Solstice Grapefruit Basil Smash
The Solstice Grapefruit Basil Smash is a refreshing and fragrant cocktail that features the herbaceous and cucumber-touched Hendrick's Midsummer Solstice Gin. The cocktail is made with freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice, lemon juice, homemade simple syrup, and a generous handful of fresh green basil.
The ingredients are shaken together with ice and strained into a Double Old Fashioned glass filled with ice. The cocktail is garnished with pink grapefruit rounds, grapefruit zest, and edible flowers. This cocktail is perfect for parties or small gatherings, and is sure to impress your guests with its unique and delicious flavor profile.
15. Elderflower Smash
The Elderflower Smash cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet and floral notes with a crisp herbal bite. This gin-based cocktail is made with elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and bitters, and is topped with a bit of smashed mint to give it a refreshing zing.
The St-Germain and gin blend perfectly to create a smooth and balanced flavor that is perfect for happy hour. The Elderflower Smash cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves the taste of fresh elderflower. With its unique blend of flavors, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
16. Aviation Cocktail
The Aviation Cocktail is a classic gin cocktail that is perfect for those who love floral and citrus flavors. This light and bright cocktail is known for its indigo hue and is a great option for those who want to try something new. The cocktail combines gin, maraschino liqueur, creme de violette, and fresh lemon juice to create a sweet and tart taste that is sure to delight your taste buds.
The cocktail is super simple to make and is perfect for home bar beginners. Serve it straight up in a cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon peel or maraschino cherry for an added touch of elegance. If you're looking for an easy and delicious floral gin cocktail, the Aviation Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
17. Rose Water Ramos Gin Fizz
The Rose Water Ramos Gin Fizz is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail that uses orange blossom water, substituting it with rose water for a floral twist. The frothy texture of the cocktail is achieved by adding an egg white, which gives it a creamy and airy feel. The gin used in the recipe is Big Gin, which has a citrusy flavor profile that complements the rose water perfectly.
The cocktail is garnished with edible rose petals, making it visually appealing and perfect for a romantic evening or a fancy party. The Rose Water Ramos Gin Fizz is a refreshing and unique cocktail that is sure to impress your guests with its delicate flavor and fluffy texture.
18. Rosemary and Gin Grapefruit Cocktail
The Rosemary and Gin Grapefruit Cocktail is a refreshing and sophisticated drink that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a combination of floral gin, tart Ruby Red grapefruit juice, and rosemary simple syrup. The rosemary simple syrup adds a subtle herbal flavor to the drink, making it a unique and delicious option for those who want something different from the usual gin and tonic.
This cocktail is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great choice for entertaining guests. If you're looking for a floral gin cocktail that is both refreshing and sophisticated, the Rosemary and Gin Grapefruit Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
19. Sparkling Elderflower Gin Cocktail
The Sparkling Elderflower Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and delicate drink that is perfect for brunch or an early aperitif. This floral cocktail is made with elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon, and your favorite gin, topped off with a fruity Charmat Method sparkling wine.
The elderflower liqueur adds a sweet and floral taste that pairs perfectly with the citrus and fresh fruit flavors. This cocktail is light and spritzy, making it a great choice for any occasion. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try, the Sparkling Elderflower Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a taste.
20. Watermelon Gin Fizz Cocktail
The Watermelon Gin Fizz Cocktail is a refreshing and floral twist on the classic gin fizz cocktail. Made with a sweet-tart watermelon juice and a floral gin, this silky smooth cocktail is perfect for summertime sipping. The use of honey instead of simple syrup adds a unique sweetness to the drink, while the egg white creates a foamy head that is both visually appealing and delicious.
The addition of club soda gives the cocktail a light effervescence that makes it perfect for hot summer days. Overall, the Watermelon Gin Fizz Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a floral and refreshing gin cocktail that is perfect for summertime sipping.
21. The Rosemary Orange Gin Cocktail
The Rosemary Orange Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for those who love the combination of citrus and herbs. This cocktail is made with gin, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and rosemary. The rosemary adds a subtle herbal flavor to the drink, while the orange juice brings out the citrus notes.
The recipe can be adjusted to turn up or down the herbs and citrus flavors, depending on your preference. The garnish options are also versatile, with the option to use orange and rosemary or to get creative with ice cubes made with orange juice or rosemary. Overall, this cocktail is a great choice for those who want to try something new and exciting.
22. Winter Gin & Tonic With Elderflower & Sloe
The Winter Gin & Tonic With Elderflower & Sloe is a delightful twist on the classic G&T that is perfect for the colder months. The cocktail features a dash of elderflower liqueur, sloe gin, and Campari, which add a lovely blush and fruity flavor to the drink. The sloe gin and Campari also give the cocktail a warming hue and a wintery edge, while the touch of elderflower reminds us that summer will be back.
Despite the addition of Campari, the drink is not bitter at all, making it a great option for those who prefer sweeter cocktails. Overall, the Winter Gin & Tonic With Elderflower & Sloe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and unique floral gin cocktail.
23. Elderflower Gin Gimlet
The Elderflower Gin Gimlet is a refreshing twist on the classic gimlet cocktail. This floral gin cocktail features a smooth elderflower liqueur that adds a unique flavor to the traditional recipe. The combination of gin and lime juice is well-balanced, making for a slightly sweet and slightly tart taste that is sure to please.
This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new while still enjoying a classic drink. If you're looking for a floral gin cocktail that is both refreshing and delicious, the Elderflower Gin Gimlet is definitely worth a try.
24. Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail
The Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail is a refreshing and floral drink that balances sweet and tart flavors with ruby red grapefruit juice and elderflower liqueur.
The smooth Hendrick's gin adds a subtle juniper flavor that doesn't overpower the other ingredients. The pink grapefruit juice balances out the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur, making it perfect for those who enjoy a classic sour cocktail with a twist.
25. Blackberry Lavender Gin Sour Cocktail
The Blackberry Lavender Gin Sour Cocktail is a fruity and floral spin on the traditional gin sour cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for summer with its combination of fresh blackberries and lavender. The drink is both fruity and sour with some sweet notes and is topped with a thick, creamy egg white foam.
The lavender honey syrup adds a unique flavor to the cocktail, making it a must-try for gin lovers. The recipe recommends using a violet blackberry gin from Lidl, but there are many other great alternatives to choose from. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique gin cocktail, the Blackberry Lavender Gin Sour is definitely worth a try.
26. Gin Apple Pie Cocktail
The Gin Apple Pie Cocktail is a perfect drink for the fall season. It is a spiced gin cocktail with floral notes that make it unique and interesting. The cocktail is made with just three ingredients, including a homemade cinnamon simple syrup, gin, and apple cider. The cinnamon-infused simple syrup gives the drink a distinct apple pie flavor.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be prepared in advance for a cocktail party or a random weeknight. The drink is served with a cinnamon-sugar rim, which adds a fun and tasty element to the cocktail. Overall, the Gin Apple Pie Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves autumnal cocktails and wants to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a drink.
27. Aperol Sour
If you're looking for a refreshing and complex cocktail with a floral twist, the Aperol Sour is a must-try. This Italian-inspired drink combines the bittersweet flavors of Aperol with the floral and herbal notes of gin, resulting in a well-balanced and sophisticated cocktail.
The addition of lavender and grapefruit bitters adds an extra layer of complexity to the drink, while the foam on top makes for a beautiful presentation. Whether you're a fan of Aperol or looking to try something new, the Aperol Sour is a perfect choice for any occasion.
28. Rose Quartz Cocktail
The Rose Quartz Cocktail is a sweet and floral gin-based cocktail that contains rose syrup, lemon, and gin. The cocktail has a refreshing and herbaceous taste, and the fizzy lemonade adds a bright and bubbly element.
The ingredients are chosen for their magical properties, with the rose petals used in the syrup associated with love, healing, and spiritual growth. This cocktail is perfect for anyone who wants to add a little magic to their drink and spread love and positivity to those around them.
29. Empress Gin Cocktail
The Empress Gin Cocktail is a stunningly beautiful and delicious gin sour recipe that is sure to impress your guests. This cocktail features Empress 1908 Gin, which is infused with butterfly pea blossom, giving it a unique and vibrant blue color.
The addition of egg white creates a velvety texture, while the combination of fresh lemon juice and simple syrup adds a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. To top it off, a dried orange and a sprig of rosemary are added for a beautiful and aromatic garnish. If you're looking for a floral gin cocktail that is both visually stunning and delicious, the Empress Gin Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
30. Campari & Elderflower Gin Sour
The Campari & Elderflower Gin Sour is a light and refreshing cocktail with a slightly bitter taste and notes of orange. The floral elderflower syrup adds a delicate sweetness, while the lemon juice provides a tangy kick.
It's perfect for those who enjoy bitter cocktails and can be made with any type of gin, but a gin with floral notes like Hendrick's or The Botanist works best.
31. The Pavan Peacock
"The Pavan Peacock" is a delicious gin cocktail that features Pavan, a French liqueur made from Moscato grapes and orange blossom. It's a sweet cocktail with a tart lemon balance and a beautiful blue hue that makes it a standout among other cocktails.
The mint garnish can be swapped out for orange peel or edible flowers for a more visually stunning presentation. It's a must-try for anyone who loves floral gin cocktails.
32. French Gimlet Cocktail
The French Gimlet Cocktail is a refreshing and elegant drink that is perfect for any occasion. With just three ingredients, this cocktail is simple to make but packs a punch of flavor. The strong herbal notes of gin and the brightness of lime are perfectly balanced with the floral essence of St. Germain, creating a unique and sophisticated taste.
The history of the Gimlet adds a touch of nostalgia to this modern cocktail, making it a must-try for any gin lover. Whether you're looking for a new signature cocktail or just want to impress your guests, the French Gimlet Cocktail is sure to be a hit.
33. Lavender Tom Collins
The Lavender Tom Collins is a refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect for summer. This classic cocktail is elevated with the addition of homemade lavender simple syrup, which adds a calming floral note to the drink.
The gin and lemon juice provide a citrusy kick, while the soda water gives it a fizzy finish. This cocktail is easy to make and even easier to drink, making it a new classic for any occasion. If you're looking for a floral gin cocktail that is both elevated and relaxed, the Lavender Tom Collins is a must-try.
34. French Gimlet
The French Gimlet is a delightful floral gin cocktail that is perfect for those who love herbaceous and floral notes in their drinks. This cocktail is a twist on the classic gimlet and adds sweet and floral elderflower liqueur to the mix. It's light, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion.
The French Gimlet is easy to make and can be served in a coupe or Nick and Nora glass for an added touch of elegance. If you're looking for a floral gin cocktail that's both easy to make and delicious, the French Gimlet is definitely worth trying.
