As a bartender, I have had the pleasure of experimenting with a variety of ingredients to create the perfect drink. One ingredient that has always caught my attention is herbs.
They are not only flavorful but also have numerous health benefits. From improving digestion to reducing stress, herbs can do wonders for your body.
While we all love a classic cocktail, there is something special about a drink that incorporates herbs. The aroma and taste of fresh herbs in a drink can transport you to a different place altogether.
Whether you prefer a sweet or savory drink, there is an herb out there that can take your cocktail game to the next level.
But where do you start when it comes to creating a herbal cocktail? With so many herbs to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to use.
That's why I am here to help. In this blog post, I will be sharing some of the best herbal cocktail recipes that I have come across in my years of bartending.
From the classics like mint and basil to lesser-known herbs like thyme and sage, these recipes will showcase the versatility of herbs in cocktails.
So, whether you're looking to impress your guests at a party or want to treat yourself to a delicious drink, keep reading. These herbal cocktail recipes will not disappoint.
1. Herbal Homestead Gin and Tonic
The Herbal Homestead Gin and Tonic is a refreshing summer cocktail that is perfect for those who love a herbaceous twist to their drinks. Packed with fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, coriander, and tarragon, this cocktail is a unique take on the classic gin and tonic.
The addition of a ripe tomato and sweet cucumber gives it a tangy and sweet taste that is perfect for hot summer days. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy savoury drinks and want to try something new. If you're looking for a refreshing and herbaceous cocktail to try this summer, the Herbal Homestead Gin and Tonic is definitely worth a try.
2. Fig Thyme Shrub Cocktail
The Fig Thyme Shrub Cocktail is a unique and refreshing drink that perfectly blends tangy and sweet flavors. This cocktail is made with a shrub mixture of sugar, vinegar, and figs that steeps overnight in the fridge to create a "drinking vinegar". The addition of fresh thyme adds an unexpected herbal note that perfectly complements the figs.
This vodka-based cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy tangy and vinegary flavors. The shrub mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it easy to whip up a cocktail whenever you want. If you're looking for a drink that's both refreshing and flavorful, the Fig Thyme Shrub Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
3. Jumpin' Genepy Cocktail
The Jumpin' Genepy Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves herbaceous cocktails with a touch of bitterness and fruity undertones. This cocktail features genepy, an herb that grows high in the French alps, which gives it a unique and flavorful twist.
The yellow flowers of the plant make a somewhat forceful liqueur that is enjoyed during a day of skiing, said to help keep you en forme on the slopes – and revive you after. If you can't find genepy, the recipe offers suggestions for other herbal liqueurs that can be used instead. Overall, this cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting in their cocktails.
4. Gin and Tea Cocktail
The Gin and Tea Cocktail is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic gimlet cocktail. This cocktail recipe uses Steep Echo's Bloom tea blend, which is a combination of peppermint, echinacea, licorice root, rosemary, and cranberry. The tea is brewed extra strong and mixed with gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
The addition of fresh thyme leaves adds a subtle herbal flavor to the cocktail. The Bloom tea blend provides a unique and soothing flavor that is perfect for those looking for a refreshing and healthy cocktail option. If you're a fan of herbal cocktails, the Gin and Tea Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
5. Canelazo
Canelazo is a warm and comforting herbal cocktail that is perfect for chilly nights. It's a combination of steeped tea, fresh lemon juice, cinnamon, and passion fruit syrup, with a few ounces of aguardiente. The brown sugar binds the flavors together, creating a multilayered and flavorful drink.
Cinnamon sticks add a bold and cinnamony flavor, while the passion fruit syrup gives it a tropical fruit flavor. It's best served as a digestif, after dinner and dessert have been wrapped, and is perfect for creating a moment just for yourself to unwind and practice self-care.
6. Grapefruit Rosemary Rum Punch
The Grapefruit Rosemary Rum Punch is a refreshing and herbal cocktail that is perfect for holiday parties. Made with tart grapefruit juice, rum, honey or simple syrup, and infused with fresh rosemary, this cocktail is easy to make and has a beautiful aroma.
The ice ring made of club soda or sparkling water, studded with rosemary sprigs and grapefruit slices, makes a gorgeous garnish for your punch bowl and a beautiful centerpiece to your drink table.
7. The Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher
If you're looking for a refreshing and light herbal cocktail, the Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher is definitely worth a try. This cocktail is perfect for both brunch and dinner, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. The combination of rosemary and grapefruit creates a unique flavor profile that is both herbal and citrusy.
The addition of soda adds a nice fizz and makes it a great option for those who prefer a lighter drink. What's even better is that you can easily make it into a mocktail by leaving out the booze. Overall, the Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
8. Grapefruit Clementine & Rosemary Shrub
The Grapefruit Clementine & Rosemary Shrub is a unique and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy a tangy and sour taste. This herbal cocktail is made with grapefruit, clementine, rosemary, honey, and apple cider vinegar, which gives it a sweet and acidic flavor.
The combination of citrus and rosemary adds a refreshing and aromatic touch to the drink. This cocktail can be enjoyed with or without alcohol, making it a versatile option for any occasion. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Grapefruit Clementine & Rosemary Shrub is definitely worth a taste.
9. Pineapple Sage Mojito
The Pineapple Sage Mojito is a delicious and refreshing herbal cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet pineapple and aromatic sage creates a unique and flavorful twist on the classic mojito.
This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day, lounging by the pool or enjoying with friends at a backyard barbecue. The Pineapple Sage Mojito is a must-try for anyone looking for a fun and unique cocktail recipe to add to their repertoire. So, why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious this cocktail can be?
10. Elderflower, Apple and Gin Fizz
The Elderflower, Apple and Gin Fizz is a refreshing and unique cocktail that combines the sweetness of apple with the floral hints of elderflower and the herbal notes of gin. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a light and fruity drink with a subtle kick of alcohol.
The sparkling apple juice adds a bubbly and effervescent touch to the drink, making it a fun and festive option for any occasion. Overall, the Elderflower, Apple and Gin Fizz is a must-try for anyone who loves experimenting with new and exciting cocktail recipes.
11. Rosemary Vodka Gimlet
The Rosemary Vodka Gimlet is a sophisticated and earthy twist on the classic vodka gimlet. Made with rosemary-infused simple syrup, fresh lime juice, and Ketel One vodka, this cocktail strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour, with a delightful herbal aroma.
The rosemary infusion adds a subtle yet distinct earthiness to the drink, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer their cocktails with a touch of complexity. Whether served straight up or over ice with a fizzy finish, this cocktail is sure to impress. If you're looking for a festive and flavorful herbal cocktail, the Rosemary Vodka Gimlet is definitely worth a try.
12. Meyer Lemon & Rosemary Margarita
The Meyer Lemon & Rosemary Margarita is a refreshing and aromatic cocktail that perfectly blends the sweet and tart flavors of meyer lemons with the earthy fragrance of rosemary. The combination of flavors is balanced and delicious, making it a great choice for any occasion.
The rim salt/sugar, made with lemon zest and a touch of rosemary, adds an extra layer of sweetness and saltiness to the drink, making it a perfect complement to the lemon margarita on the rocks. This cocktail is perfect for sipping with friends on a sunny spring day, and it's easy to make, so you can quickly whip up a batch for your guests. Overall, the Meyer Lemon & Rosemary Margarita is a must-try herbal cocktail that will leave you wanting more.
13. Hot Rum & Ginger Tea Toddy
The Hot Rum & Ginger Tea Toddy is a perfect cocktail to warm you up on a lazy winter evening. This cocktail is based off of a traditional hot toddy, which can include a range of alcohol, depending on where you're from.
The tea and rum are simmered slightly with orange slices, pieces of fresh ginger, a little honey (or agave nectar) and a pinch of nutmeg. The result is a warm and comforting drink that will surely make you feel cozy. This cocktail is perfect for those who are looking for a little extra warmth during the cold winter months.
14. Plum & Rosemary Daiquiri
The Plum & Rosemary Daiquiri is a refreshing fall cocktail that adds muddled plums and rosemary to the classic daiquiri mix of sugar, lime, and white rum.
It's not overly sweet and pairs well with a variety of meals and aperitifs. The cocktail is easy to make and is perfect to serve at a friendsgiving or to enjoy on a porch before a football game.
15. Becherovka Bramble
The Becherovka Bramble is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic blackberry bramble cocktail. The addition of Becherovka, a Czech herbal bitters with notes of cinnamon and cloves, adds a unique and delicious flavor to the drink. The cocktail features muddled blackberries and fresh lemon juice, and is sweetened with honey simple syrup.
This cocktail is perfect for warm summer evenings and is sure to impress your guests with its unique and flavorful taste. If you're looking for a new and exciting herbal cocktail to try, the Becherovka Bramble is definitely worth a taste!
16. Grapefruit Rosemary Tonic
The Grapefruit Rosemary Tonic is a refreshing and colorful non-alcoholic cocktail that combines tonic water, sweet ruby red grapefruit, and aromatic rosemary to create a complex flavor profile.
The rosemary can be lit on fire and rubbed around the glass while still smoking, creating a lovely presentation. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion and provides a festive option for kids and those who prefer not to drink.
17. Clementine & Lemon Gin Cocktail
The Clementine & Lemon Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and seasonal drink that would be perfect for brunch or a Friday night cocktail hour. This cocktail features fresh clementine juice, lemon, and gin, and is sweetened with Sipp Sparkling Organics Lemon Flower soda, which contains organic extracts, teas, honey, herbs, and agave for sweetness.
The addition of tarragon adds a unique and delicious flavor to the drink. This cocktail is a great alternative to sugary sodas and is lower in sugar and carbohydrates than traditional soda mixers. If you're looking for a delicious and healthier cocktail option, the Clementine & Lemon Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
18. Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail
The Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail is a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. This cocktail is a well-crafted blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. The rosemary-infused gin is perfectly balanced with the sweetness and spice of the ginger and cardamom syrup.
The acidity of the lemon and the sweet vermouth give this cocktail an extra layer of flavor that will leave you feeling satisfied. This cocktail is a great way to impress your guests and show off your creativity in the kitchen. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
19. Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail
The "Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail" is a delightful herbal cocktail that combines the flavors of pomegranate, rosemary, elderflower, and dry gin. It has a tart taste with a hint of sweetness that makes it perfect for autumn dinner parties or holiday entertaining.
The cocktail is served in an oversized coupe glass, which adds elegance and sophistication to the drink. The Bormioli Rocco Spazio glasses used to serve the cocktail are not only beautiful but also sturdy, making them perfect for any occasion. Overall, the "Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail" is a must-try for anyone who loves herbal cocktails with a touch of tartness.
20. Lemon Brulee and Rosemary Gin Sour
The Lemon Brulee and Rosemary Gin Sour is a unique and exciting herbal cocktail that is sure to impress. This cocktail combines a variety of flavors and textures, from the tartness of the lemon to the smokiness of the burnt rosemary.
The addition of egg whites gives the cocktail a creamy texture, while the orgeat syrup adds a nutty sweetness to balance out the sourness of the lemon. The use of olive oil is an unexpected twist that adds a subtle richness to the cocktail. Overall, this cocktail is a perfect choice for those who want to try something new and exciting.
21. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a refreshing cocktail from Northeast Italy made with prosecco, Aperol, and soda water. It has a zesty orange flavor with complex herbal scents and a pleasantly bittersweet and salty taste.
The cocktail has a velvety texture with long-lasting orange and wood memories. It's perfect for unwinding after a long, hot summer day and a must-try for anyone who loves light and refreshing drinks with a unique flavor profile.
22. Conifer Hot Toddy With Rose Hips and Ginger
The Conifer Hot Toddy with Rose Hips and Ginger is a unique and flavorful herbal cocktail that is perfect for chilly days. Made with foraged ingredients like conifer needles and rose hips, this hot toddy is not only delicious but also offers potential health benefits.
The addition of cinnamon and ginger gives it a warm and spicy kick, while honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness. The whiskey or bourbon is the perfect finishing touch to this cozy and comforting cocktail. If you're looking for a new and exciting herbal cocktail to try, the Conifer Hot Toddy with Rose Hips and Ginger is definitely worth a taste.
23. Strawberry Hibiscus Cooler
The Strawberry Hibiscus Cooler is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for summertime. This herbal cocktail is infused with hibiscus petals, which give it a unique and floral taste. The sweetness of the strawberries perfectly balances out the tartness of the hibiscus, making it a great choice for those who prefer a sweeter cocktail.
This drink is not only delicious, but it is also visually stunning with its vibrant pink color. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both delicious and beautiful, the Strawberry Hibiscus Cooler is definitely worth a try.
24. Love Potion Cordial
"Love Potion Cordial" is a unique and delightful herbal cocktail that is perfect for special occasions. This rose petal cordial recipe was originally created for a wedding celebration and has been a sensation ever since. The infusion of rose petals in the cordial provides a calming effect and helps with anxiety, restlessness, and nervousness.
The nerve tonic properties of roses also enhance mental function, moderate reactivity to our environment, and improve our ability to sleep. The cordial is sweetened with rose honey, which adds a fantastic flavor to the drink. If you love roses, you will definitely enjoy this love potion. It's a must-try for anyone who wants to explore the world of herbal cocktails.
25. Strawberry Honey Hibiscus Shrub
The Strawberry Honey Hibiscus Shrub is a refreshing and tangy cocktail that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of vinegar and the floral notes of hibiscus. This cocktail is perfect for spring and can be made with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.
The shrub is made by combining fruit, honey, and herbs and allowing them to meld together over a few days. The addition of vinegar mellows out the sweetness and adds a tangy kick to the drink. The Strawberry Honey Hibiscus Shrub is a great addition to any cocktail menu and is sure to impress guests with its unique blend of flavors.
