As a bartender, I have always been fascinated by the complex flavors that different ingredients can bring to a cocktail. One of my all-time favorites is Juniper, an evergreen shrub that is used to flavor gin.
The unique taste of Juniper is what sets gin apart from other spirits and makes it such a versatile ingredient in cocktail making.
Juniper has a distinct piney flavor that is both refreshing and invigorating. When combined with other ingredients like citrus, herbs, and spices, it creates a complex and layered taste that is hard to resist.
Whether you are a gin lover or just looking to try something new, Juniper cocktails are a must-try.
Over the years, I have experimented with different Juniper cocktail recipes, and I have come up with some favorites that never fail to impress. From classic gin and tonics to more elaborate concoctions, there is a Juniper cocktail for every taste and occasion.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite Juniper cocktail recipes, along with tips on how to make them perfectly every time. So, get ready to shake, stir, and sip your way through the best Juniper cocktails out there!
1. Cardamom and Juniper Gin and Tonic
The Cardamom and Juniper Gin and Tonic is a must-try for gin lovers who enjoy a spicy and herbal twist to their classic G&T. The cocktail features a simple syrup infused with juniper and cardamom, adding a flavorful punch to the drink.
For the best results, it is recommended to use a more floral gin, such as Hendricks or Tanqueray, and a tonic water that you love. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting with their gin and tonic.
2. Ginger Pear Gimlet
The Ginger Pear Gimlet is a perfect fall cocktail with a warming flavor of ginger and a homemade Ginger Pear Simple Syrup. It's made with a limited edition gin from juniper berries picked from a sweet family farm in Longmont, Colorado.
The combination of ginger and pear with the fresh herbal profile of the gin creates a delicious and refreshing drink that is definitely worth trying.
3. Zinfandel Grape, Rosemary + Gin Crush
The Zinfandel Grape, Rosemary + Gin Crush is a unique and refreshing cocktail that combines the sweetness of wine grapes with the piney notes of rosemary and juniper. The addition of gin and lemon juice adds depth and balance to the drink, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a more complex cocktail.
The cocktail is served over ice with a splash of fizzy water, making it a great choice for a summer evening. Overall, the Zinfandel Grape, Rosemary + Gin Crush is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and refreshing Juniper Cocktail.
4. Juniper Champagne Cocktail
The Juniper Champagne Cocktail is a unique and refreshing drink that is perfect for ringing in the New Year. This cocktail is sweetened with simple syrup and infused with juniper berries, giving it a citrusy-green note that pairs perfectly with dry sparkling wine.
The fragrant swizzle stick of pine adds a festive touch to this already delightful drink. What's great about this cocktail is that you can lower the calories by using a premade sugar-free syrup. Overall, the Juniper Champagne Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to serve at their next party.
5. Strawberry Limeade Gin & Tonic
"Strawberry Limeade Gin & Tonic" is a refreshing and boozy twist on the classic summer cooler, perfect for hot summer days and BBQs. This cocktail features a homemade strawberry syrup that blends perfectly with the tartness of lime and the refreshing tonic water. The ice ball with fresh strawberries and juniper berries inside adds a fun and impressive touch to the drink, as it melts and changes the flavors.
This cocktail is a great choice for those who love fruity and refreshing drinks, and it can be easily customized by swapping the strawberries for other berries or using flavored tonic water. If you want to impress your guests with a delicious and unique summer cocktail, give "Strawberry Limeade Gin & Tonic" a try.
6. Verdant Lady
If you're looking for a complex and refreshing cocktail, the Verdant Lady is a must-try. This gin-based cocktail features green chartreuse and fresh mint, giving it a unique and herbaceous flavor profile.
The addition of lime juice balances out the sweetness of the chartreuse, making it a perfectly balanced drink. Whether you're sipping it on a hot summer day or enjoying it as a winter warmer, the Verdant Lady is sure to impress. Don't miss out on this sophisticated and delicious cocktail.
7. Elderflower Spanish Gin & Tonics
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique twist on the classic Gin & Tonic, the Elderflower Spanish Gin & Tonic is a must-try. This cocktail features St. George Spirits' Botanivore gin, which has bright citrus notes and subtle juniper flavors. The tonic used in this recipe is also of high quality, with options like Fever Tree or Small Hands tonic syrups being recommended.
What sets this cocktail apart is the addition of grapefruit, rosemary, and juniper as garnishes, which add subtle yet distinct flavors to the drink. The Spanish style of serving the cocktail also adds a touch of flair, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. If you're a fan of Gin & Tonics, this Elderflower Spanish Gin & Tonic is definitely worth a try.
8. Juniper Royale Champagne Cocktail
The Juniper Royale Champagne Cocktail is a perfect drink for any special occasion. This sophisticated cocktail combines the flavors of gin, cranberry, orange, and champagne to create a sweet and bubbly drink that is sure to impress your guests. The addition of juniper gives the gin a unique taste that sets it apart from other clear liquors.
When serving this drink, opt for a cocktail glass or flute to add a touch of elegance. Garnish with fresh cranberries, an orange twist, or even a sprig of juniper to complete the look. If you're looking for a light and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any celebration, the Juniper Royale Champagne Cocktail is the perfect choice.
9. Raspberry Gin Fizz
The Raspberry Gin Fizz is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail made with a homemade raspberry simple syrup, gin, and lemon juice.
Topped with tonic or soda water and garnished with fresh raspberries and mint, it adds a bright and cheery color and flavor to the classic gin fizz. The endless variations that can be made with different fruit or berry simple syrups make it a must-try cocktail.
10. Spring Fling Cocktail
The Spring Fling Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that perfectly captures the essence of spring. This cocktail is a well-balanced mix of sweet and tart flavors with floral undertones that complement the gin. The recipe calls for St. Germain, an elderflower liqueur that adds a sweet touch to the cocktail.
The addition of club soda adds a fun fizz and keeps the drink from being too sweet. What sets this cocktail apart is the use of peony ice cubes, which not only look beautiful but also add a subtle floral flavor to the drink. If you're looking for a perfect springtime cocktail, the Spring Fling Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
11. Spanish Gin and Tonics
Spanish Gin and Tonics are a refreshing and beautiful cocktail that are perfect for warm weather and entertaining. These cocktails have taken the classic gin and tonic to the next level by using large wine glasses filled with ice and aromatic herbs as garnish. The key to making a great Spanish Gin and Tonic is to use high-quality ingredients like craft distillery gins and aromatic tonic water.
The cocktail is typically served very cold, making it perfect for parties or hot summer days. With a good ratio of 2 parts tonic water to 1 part gin, Spanish Gin and Tonics are not too strong and are the most refreshing cocktail. If you're looking for a unique and delicious gin cocktail, Spanish Gin and Tonics are definitely worth trying.
