As a bartender, I have seen trends come and go in the world of mixology. But one trend that has stood the test of time is the use of herbs in cocktails.
From classic cocktails like the mint julep to modern creations like the lavender gin fizz, herbs have played a key role in creating unique and delicious drinks.
Herbs not only add flavor to cocktails but also provide a range of health benefits.
For example, mint is known to aid digestion, while thyme is believed to boost the immune system. And let's not forget the relaxing properties of lavender.
Gin, with its botanical flavor profile, pairs perfectly with herbs.
It's no wonder that gin cocktails featuring herbs have become a staple in bars and restaurants around the world.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of the best herbal gin cocktail recipes that I have come across in my years as a bartender.
These recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether you're entertaining guests or simply looking to enjoy a refreshing drink at home. So, sit back, relax, and let's explore the wonderful world of herbal gin cocktails.
1. Gin and Bitters Cocktail
The Gin and Bitters Cocktail is a simple yet sophisticated twist on the classic Gin and Tonic. This cocktail allows you to add a burst of flavor to your drink by using bitters, which are intense flavors in a liquor base. The bitters can be paired with a variety of garnishes such as lemon, peach, orange, or even herbs like mint, cinnamon, and cardamom.
The possibilities are endless, making this cocktail a perfect choice for those who love to experiment with flavors. If you're a fan of apple in your gin, you might also want to try the Cider and Gin recipe. The Gin and Bitters Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to add a unique twist to their gin cocktail repertoire.
2. Herbal Gin
The Herbal Gin Cocktail is a unique and refreshing drink that is perfect for those who love botanical flavors. Made with homemade herbal gin infused with lavender, chamomile, and other botanicals, this cocktail is both delicately flavored and unique.
The use of medicinal herbs in the gin makes it not only a delicious drink but also a soothing after-dinner drink. The smooth neutral vodka used in the gin ensures that all the herbal notes come through, making it a perfect base for this cocktail. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves herbal flavors and wants to try something new and exciting.
3. Thyme Apple Gin and Tonic
If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, the Thyme Apple Gin and Tonic is a great choice. This cocktail is perfect for any time of year, and it's a simple twist on the classic gin and tonic. The addition of fresh thyme and apple juice gives this cocktail a unique flavor that is both sweet and herbal.
The recipe is easy to follow, and you can even make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the gin and adding extra tonic water. The Thyme Apple Gin and Tonic is a perfect cocktail for any gathering or party, and it's sure to impress your guests. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
4. Herbal Gin and Tonic With Tarragon
Looking for a refreshing and herbaceous cocktail? Look no further than the Herbal Gin and Tonic with Tarragon. This cocktail is made with a floral gin, tarragon simple syrup, and finished with lavender bitters.
The tarragon adds a subtle anise flavor, while the lavender bitters give it a floral finish. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a classic gin and tonic but want to add a unique twist. Give it a try and let the flavors transport you to a serene herb garden.
5. Strawberry Basil Cocktail With Gin
The Strawberry Basil Cocktail with Gin is a refreshing and interesting drink that is perfect for those who enjoy the herbal flavors of gin but want to balance it out with sweet fruits and liqueurs. The addition of elderflower liqueur adds a unique layer of flavor to the classic drink.
The cocktail is made by muddling strawberries and basil with lemon juice, gin, and elderflower liqueur and then topping it with tonic water. The solids are added to the glass for even more flavor and a beautiful presentation. This cocktail is perfect for happy hour or as a signature drink at a dinner party. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and refreshing herbal gin cocktail.
6. Grapefruit, Rosemary & Gin Cocktail
The Grapefruit, Rosemary & Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and light drink that is perfect for spring and summer days. This cocktail is a combination of freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice, gin, and rosemary simple syrup, which adds a woody and fragrant undertone to the drink.
The rosemary simple syrup is easy to make and can be stored in a refrigerated bottle for up to a month. The cocktail is not too sweet, not too bitter, and not too tart, making it a perfect sipper. If you are looking for a herbal gin cocktail that is easy to make and tastes great, then the Grapefruit, Rosemary & Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
7. The Drunk Cucumber
"The Drunk Cucumber" is a refreshing and crisp gin cocktail infused with fresh cucumber and hints of rosemary. This cocktail is an excellent choice for those who want a light and refreshing drink with a mild sweetness and lower calorie content. The addition of cucumber and rosemary to the classic gin and tonic recipe makes this cocktail unique and flavorful.
The muddled cucumber and rosemary infuse the flavors into the gin, resulting in a deliciously crisp and beautiful drink that you'll want to sip all summer long. If you're looking for a new and exciting herbal gin cocktail, "The Drunk Cucumber" is a must-try.
8. Gin Basil Smash
The Gin Basil Smash is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail made with gin, fresh basil, lemon juice, and simple syrup. It's a modern classic that's easy to make at home and perfect for spring and summer.
The key is to muddle the basil thoroughly to release its bright and herbaceous flavors. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a simple and delicious herbal gin cocktail.
9. Cranberry Gin and Tonic
The Cranberry Gin and Tonic is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season. Infused with rosemary, the cranberry syrup adds a unique twist to the classic gin and tonic. The syrup is made using unsweetened cranberry juice and infused with rosemary, giving it a distinct aroma and flavor.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be built in a rocks glass in just a few minutes. The addition of fresh or frozen cranberries and a rosemary sprig as garnish adds a festive touch to the drink. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both refreshing and seasonal, the Cranberry Gin and Tonic is a must-try.
10. Corpse Reviver No. 2 Cocktail
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 Cocktail is a classic gin-based cocktail that is both boozy and perfectly balanced.
It features an old-school London-dry gin with pronounced notes of juniper, Lillet Blanc for sweetness and citrus notes, and a tiny amount of absinthe for a unique herbal flavor. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for a strong and flavorful drink that is not too sweet.
11. Blueberry Gin and Sage Punch
If you're looking for a refreshing and festive cocktail to serve at your next holiday gathering, the Blueberry Gin and Sage Punch is definitely worth considering. Made with gin, lemon, blueberry sage infused simple syrup, and a splash of Prosecco, this cocktail is full of flavor and effervescence.
The combination of frozen blueberries, fresh sage, and lemon creates a delightful taste that will leave your guests wanting more. What's more, this cocktail is easy to make in a large batch, making it perfect for serving a crowd. Whether you're a gin lover or just looking for a unique cocktail to impress your guests, the Blueberry Gin and Sage Punch is definitely worth a try.
12. Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail
The Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail is a festive and seasonal drink that is perfect for the holidays. The cocktail is infused with the flavors of rosemary, ginger, and cardamom, which give it a spicy and sweet taste. The acidity of the lemon helps balance the sweetness, while the sweet vermouth adds an extra layer of flavor.
The complexity and layers of flavor in this cocktail make it a must-try for any cocktail lover. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful herbal gin cocktail, the Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
13. Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling is a classic gin cocktail with a fruity and refreshing taste and a herbal twist. It was invented in 1915 at the Long Bar in Singapore and was designed to be a girly drink with a pink color that resembled fruit juice.
The cocktail contains a fair amount of alcohol and is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. It's a must-try for gin lovers who enjoy a fruity and herbal twist in their cocktails.
14. Rosemary Gimlet
The Rosemary Gimlet is a classic gin cocktail with a wintery twist. This cocktail uses rosemary simple syrup to add a fresh, herbal flavor to the drink. The cocktail is made with gin, fresh lime juice, and rosemary simple syrup. The drink is shaken with ice and strained into a chilled glass, garnished with a sprig of fresh rosemary.
The addition of rosemary makes this cocktail perfect for winter holiday celebrations. The history of the Gimlet dates back over 150 years, and the name is thought to come from the tool used to bore holes in wood. The Rosemary Gimlet is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting herbal gin cocktail.
15. The Lumiere
The Lumiere is a unique herbal gin cocktail that features gin, lime juice, St. Germain, and green chartreuse. It has a complex, layered flavor profile that is sweet and herbal with a warming mouthfeel.
The fresh lime juice balances out the sweetness of the St. Germain, and it's served without ice in a coupe glass for a luminescent appearance. It's a strong cocktail, perfect for sipping on a spring evening.
16. Mandarin Orange Gin & Tonic
The Mandarin Orange Gin & Tonic is a refreshing and wintry twist on the classic gin and tonic cocktail. The addition of fresh-squeezed mandarin orange juice adds a sweet citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with the herbal notes of the gin and the bitterness of the tonic water.
This cocktail is a great option for those who enjoy a G&T but want to switch things up with a seasonal twist. It's a perfect drink for winter gatherings or cozy nights at home. If you're a fan of gin cocktails, the Mandarin Orange Gin & Tonic is definitely worth trying.
17. Basil Gin Gimlet Cocktail
The Basil Gin Gimlet Cocktail is a refreshing and herbaceous twist on the classic gimlet. This cocktail is perfect for the summer season and is a great way to use up an abundance of fresh basil. The cocktail is made with gin, lime juice, and a basil simple syrup, which gives it a unique and delicious flavor.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be garnished with fresh basil for an added touch of elegance. If you're looking for a new and exciting gin cocktail to try, the Basil Gin Gimlet Cocktail is definitely worth a shot.
18. Basil Cocktail & Spring Feeling Cocktail
The Basil Cocktail is a modern twist on the classic Spring Feeling cocktail. It's a vibrant, fruity, and herbaceous gin-based cocktail with a semi-dry taste. The addition of basil and a touch of citrus adds a refreshing twist to this cocktail.
The use of Green Chartreuse, a unique and versatile liqueur made by Carthusian Monks, gives the drink a distinct flavor that's hard to describe but easy to love.
19. The Hanky Panky
If you're looking for a unique and complex gin cocktail, look no further than The Hanky Panky. This classic cocktail, invented by Ada Coleman at the Savoy in London, features the unusual ingredient of Fernet-Branca, a bitter and herbal liqueur with roots in medicine.
Don't be put off by its strange flavor profile, though – when paired with gin and a touch of sweet vermouth, it creates a delicious and intriguing drink that's sure to impress. The classic garnish is an orange twist, but for those who love brine, a cocktail onion is a tasty alternative. Give The Hanky Panky a try and discover a new favorite herbal gin cocktail.
20. Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail
The Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail is a delightful herbal gin cocktail that is perfect for fall and holiday entertaining. The cocktail features dry gin, pomegranate juice, elderflower liqueur, and muddled rosemary for a complex and flavorful taste. The tartness of the pomegranate and gin is balanced out by the sweetness of the elderflower and the herbal notes of the rosemary.
The cocktail is served in an oversized coupe glass, making it feel fancy and elegant. The beautiful red color of the cocktail also makes it a great addition to any holiday party. If you're a fan of dry cocktails, you'll definitely enjoy the Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail.
21. Empress Gin Clover Club
The Empress Gin Clover Club is a must-try cocktail for gin lovers who are looking for a unique and colorful twist to their usual drink. Made with Empress 1908 Gin, this cocktail changes color from blue to pink to periwinkle to indigo, making it a visually stunning drink to serve.
While the recipe is not mentioned, the cocktail is easy to make with just a cocktail shaker, a measuring glass, and a cocktail glass of choice. The Empress Gin Clover Club is a perfect choice for those who want to try something new and exciting. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, it is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
22. Cranberry Gin and Tonic With Rosemary
The Cranberry Gin and Tonic with Rosemary is a perfect cocktail for the winter season. This twist on a classic gin and tonic combines the tartness of cranberry and lime with the bitterness of tonic water and the herbal notes of gin. The addition of fresh rosemary adds a delightful aroma and visual appeal to the drink.
With its brilliant red color, it's a perfect festive cocktail for the holiday season. This cocktail is low in calories and is best served cold in a tall highball or large globe glass. The Cranberry Gin and Tonic with Rosemary is a must-try for gin and tonic lovers and is sure to impress your guests at any holiday gathering.
23. The Last Word Cocktail
The Last Word Cocktail is a classic Prohibition-era drink that has recently experienced a resurgence in popularity. This cocktail is made with equal parts gin, green Chartreuse, Luxardo, and fresh lime juice, resulting in a perfectly balanced, sophisticated flavor profile.
The herbal notes in the gin and Chartreuse are complemented by the sweetness of the Luxardo and the acidity of the lime juice. What sets this cocktail apart is its simplicity, making it a great choice for any occasion. The Last Word Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a clean, classic drink with a touch of herbal complexity.
24. The Eventide Gin Cocktail
The Eventide Gin Cocktail is a must-try for those who love a bitter and dry flavor profile. This clear gin cocktail is made with Cocchi Americano, a unique blend of wine, liquor, herbs, and bitters, which adds a hint of bitterness without overpowering the drink. The addition of orange bitters and a twist garnish elevate the flavors even further.
What sets this cocktail apart is the fancy red glassware, making it a visually stunning drink. For those looking to tone down the bitterness, adding soda is an option. Overall, The Eventide Gin Cocktail is an easy-to-make and easy-to-drink cocktail that is definitely worth trying for those who enjoy a unique herbal flavor.
25. White Negroni
The White Negroni is a floral-forward take on the classic Negroni cocktail. It's made with gin, Suze liqueur, and Lillet Blanc, resulting in a refreshing and complex cocktail with a unique and floral flavor profile.
The bitterness of the gin is balanced out by the sweetness of the Lillet Blanc and the gentian-based Suze liqueur, making for a well-rounded and refreshing cocktail.
26. The Queen's Dubonnet Cocktail
"The Queen's Dubonnet Cocktail" is a classic herbal gin cocktail that has been enjoyed by the Queen of England for many years. Made with Dubonnet, a sweet fortified wine aperitif infused with herbs and spices, and gin, this cocktail is a perfect pre-meal sipper. The addition of a lemon wedge and ice cubes make it a refreshing and enjoyable drink.
The cocktail has a slightly sweet and herbal taste with a smooth bitterness that is sure to please the palate. If you're a fan of English dramas, this cocktail is a perfect addition to your watch party for shows like The Crown or Victoria. Give "The Queen's Dubonnet Cocktail" a try and experience the royal treatment for yourself.
27. Christmas Cranberry and Orange Gin Liqueur
The Christmas Cranberry and Orange Gin Liqueur is a festive and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. It features cranberries, cinnamon stick, star anise, allspice berries, ginger, and orange zest, with a bottle of gin and sugar.
The cocktail is left to infuse for a week and can be served as a little shot or used as the basis for a lovely festive cocktail. It's a great addition to your foodie gifts for Christmas and will keep for up to a year.
28. Winter Gin Gimlet
The Winter Gin Gimlet is a refreshing and subtly herbal cocktail that is perfect for the winter season. Made with fresh lime and rosemary, this cocktail is a great choice for those who enjoy a drink with a bit of a twist. The cocktail is named after the classic gimlet cocktail, which has a long and interesting history.
If you're looking for a cocktail that has a bit of a past and a future, the Winter Gin Gimlet is definitely worth trying. So, if you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to enjoy this winter, be sure to give the Winter Gin Gimlet a try.
29. Jumpin' Genepy Cocktail
Jumpin' Genepy Cocktail is a unique and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for those who love herbaceous and bitter drinks with fruity undertones. The cocktail features a spoonful of genepy, a herb that grows high in the French alps, which gives it a distinct and refreshing taste.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy trying new and exciting drinks, as it offers a unique taste that is hard to find in other cocktails. If you're looking for a cocktail that will awaken your senses and leave you feeling refreshed, then the Jumpin' Genepy Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
30. Blue Moon Gin Cocktail
The Blue Moon Gin Cocktail is a bold and beautiful drink that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Its striking purple color is thanks to the Empress gin and Creme de Violette, which also give it a sweet floral flavor.
The gin flavors shine through in this cocktail, so it's important to choose a gin that you love. A lemon twist adds a bright contrast and depth to the drink. If you're a fan of gin and looking for a visually stunning and delicious cocktail, the Blue Moon Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
