As a bartender, I have seen it all when it comes to the world of mixology. From classic cocktails to modern twists, there is no shortage of creativity when it comes to crafting the perfect drink.
However, there is one ingredient that has stood out to me in recent years – sage. This herb not only adds a unique flavor to cocktails but also offers numerous health benefits.
Sage has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also known for its ability to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and promote mental clarity.
When used in cocktails, sage adds a subtle earthy flavor that pairs well with a variety of spirits, from gin to whiskey.
But what makes a great sage cocktail? In my opinion, it all comes down to balance. The herb should not overpower the other ingredients, but rather complement them.
A great sage cocktail should also be visually appealing, with the herb adding a pop of green to the drink.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of the best sage cocktail recipes that I have come across in my years behind the bar.
From classic cocktails with a sage twist to modern creations, there is something for everyone. So grab a shaker, some ice, and let's get mixing!
1. The Elder Sage Cocktail
The Elder Sage Cocktail is a must-try for gin lovers who enjoy a botanical and fresh taste. This cocktail uses elderflower liquor and fresh sage leaves, giving it a fragrant and herby flavor. The addition of spritz makes it light and refreshing, making it perfect for any occasion.
The use of Wonderbird and Hendrick's gins, with hints of rose and cucumber, adds a unique touch to the cocktail. What makes this cocktail special is that the ingredients are grown in a garden kit curated by Gardenuity, making it a truly farm-to-table experience. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both delicious and unique, The Elder Sage is definitely worth a try.
2. Bourbon and Sage Cocktail
The Bourbon and Sage Cocktail is a refreshing and aromatic drink that combines the smoothness of bourbon with the earthy and aromatic flavor of sage-infused simple syrup. The cocktail is made up of only three ingredients – bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and sage-infused simple syrup. The combination of all three creates a dynamic and delicious drink that is perfect for any occasion.
The sage-infused simple syrup adds a unique and flavorful twist to the classic bourbon cocktail. The cocktail is garnished with a baby sprig of sage, which adds a cute and adorable touch to the drink. If you're a fan of bourbon-based cocktails, then the Bourbon and Sage Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
3. Cranberry Sage Cocktail
The Cranberry Sage Cocktail is a gin-based cocktail that perfectly combines the juniper tones of gin with the tartness of cranberry. This cocktail is a beautiful addition to any holiday table and is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's celebrations.
The fresh sage adds a unique flavor to the drink and elevates its taste. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves seasonal variations in their drinks. The Cranberry Sage Cocktail is a hit at Seasons 52, and now you can enjoy it at home too. So, why not give it a try and add some holiday cheer to your celebrations?
4. Sake, Pear and Sage Martini
The Sake, Pear and Sage Martini is a unique and fascinating cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of winter. This low ABV martini is a perfect blend of delicate notes of pear, herbs, and spices, with a star ingredient of Sake, which is a low percentage base spirit.
The Cocchi Americano adds a sharp and dry flavor to the cocktail, while the rare pear liqueur from Berentzen adds a touch of sweetness. The sparing use of Sage in the cocktail brings out a subtle earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a light and refreshing martini during the winter season.
5. Tequila Sage Smash
The Tequila Sage Smash is a bold and savory twist on the classic smash cocktail. This cocktail features the strong flavors of tequila, combined with the subtle kiss of sage, lime juice, and orange. The sage adds a jolt of savory flavor that really makes this drink stand out.
The cocktail is very spirit-forward, so it's important to use a good quality tequila. This drink can be enjoyed throughout the year and can be molded to exactly what you want out of it, using silver tequila all the way to a rich añejo. The Tequila Sage Smash is a must-try for anyone looking for a strong and flavorful cocktail.
6. Cranberry and Sage Gin Cocktail
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to impress your guests, the Cranberry and Sage Gin Cocktail is a must-try. This cocktail combines the tartness of cranberries with the earthy flavor of sage, creating a delicious and festive drink that's perfect for any occasion. The addition of candied sage leaves and cranberries adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to the cocktail, making it a visually stunning drink as well.
The muddled cranberries and sage leaves bring out the perfect balance of sweet and sour, while the gin and cranberry juice add a refreshing kick. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a new cocktail to try, the Cranberry and Sage Gin Cocktail is a delicious and unique option that's sure to impress.
7. Dreamy Sage Limoncello Martini
The Dreamy Sage Limoncello Martini is a refreshing and delightful cocktail that is perfect for lemon lovers. It is a perfect balance of vodka, limoncello, and lemon juice, and the sage leaves add a unique twist to the flavor.
The longer the sage leaves float in the cocktail, the tastier it becomes. It is a great cocktail to serve at dinner parties or to enjoy on a warm summer evening. The Dreamy Sage Limoncello Martini is a must-try for anyone who loves a good mixed drink.
8. Pear-Sage Gimlet
The Pear-Sage Gimlet is a perfect fall twist on a classic gin gimlet cocktail. This cocktail balances sweet, tart, and savory notes to create a complex and flavorful drink. The unique homemade pear-sage simple syrup adds a delightful touch to this cocktail, making it perfect for entertaining guests.
The bright lime juice cuts through the rich flavors of the cocktail, making it a refreshing drink to enjoy with a meal. For those who are not fans of gin, vodka makes a great substitute. The pear-sage gimlet is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and unique fall cocktail.
9. Gin Sage Martini
The Gin Sage Martini is a smooth and delicious cocktail that highlights the botanicals of the gin. Made with a simple syrup of fresh sage leaves, the cocktail is balanced with a bit of lemon juice and gets its froth from an egg white.
This cocktail is perfect for those who like their drinks with a bit of sweetness and a touch of herbaceousness. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful martini, the Gin Sage Martini is definitely worth trying.
10. Grapefruit Sage Spritzer
The Grapefruit Sage Spritzer is a refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect for a warm spring day. This cocktail features the earthy flavor of sage, which pairs perfectly with the floral notes of elderflower liqueur and the mild tartness of fresh grapefruit juice.
The cocktail is a great alternative to more traditional grapefruit cocktails, as it is not overly bitter or sour. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious drink.
11. Pineapple Sage Blackberry Mimosa
The Pineapple Sage Blackberry Mimosa is a refreshing and unique cocktail that is perfect for the end of summer celebrations. This cocktail is made with fresh pineapple sage, which gives it a distinct and delicious flavor. The addition of blackberries adds a sweet and fruity taste that complements the herbal notes of the sage.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love to experiment with new and exciting flavors in their drinks. If you're looking for a cocktail that is sure to impress your guests, the Pineapple Sage Blackberry Mimosa is definitely worth a try.
12. The Black Betty
The Black Betty is a low-carb paleo cocktail that features the delicious combination of blackberries and sage. This cocktail is perfect for those who are looking for a refreshing and fruity drink that is not too sweet. The addition of whisky and lime gives the cocktail a nice kick, while the stevia sweetener keeps it low in calories.
The cocktail is also versatile, as it can be made with different types of liquor to suit individual tastes. Overall, The Black Betty is a delightful and unique cocktail that is perfect for summer gatherings with friends and family.
13. Apple Whiskey Smash
The Apple Whiskey Smash is a perfect cocktail for autumn, with a new take on the classic whiskey smash. This cocktail is made with your choice of whiskey or bourbon, homemade cinnamon simple syrup, and sparkling apple cider.
The cocktail is garnished with extra sage leaves and apple slices, and it is perfect for a crowd. The recipe can be easily tripled or more, and it is perfect for making ahead. The Apple Whiskey Smash is a delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
14. Sage Ginger Limoncello Cocktail
The Sage Ginger Limoncello Cocktail is a perfect winter drink that packs a punch of flavor without being too sweet or citrusy. This cocktail is made with homemade limoncello liqueur and a homemade simple syrup that includes sage and ginger, giving it a unique and delicious taste.
The simple syrup is made by bruising sage leaves and boiling them with ginger root and equal parts water and sugar. The cocktail is perfect for welcoming in the new year or for a much-needed drink after a long day. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both refreshing and flavorful, the Sage Ginger Limoncello Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
15. Pisco, Plum & Sage Cocktail
The Pisco, Plum & Sage Cocktail is a refreshing and seasonal drink that is sure to impress your guests. This cocktail is a perfect blend of fruity and herbal flavors, with the sweetness of plums perfectly balanced by the earthiness of sage.
The addition of Pisco, a South American brandy, gives the drink a unique and complex flavor profile. The cocktail is garnished with a sprig of sage, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation. If you're looking for a sophisticated cocktail that is sure to impress, the Pisco, Plum & Sage Cocktail is a must-try.
16. Lemon and Sage Moscow Mules
The Lemon and Sage Moscow Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail that is perfect for summer. This cocktail features lemon juice, limoncello, fresh muddled sage, and ginger syrup for a unique flavor profile. The addition of ginger syrup gives the cocktail a depth of spice and warmth that complements the zesty ginger and subtle herbal notes of the sage perfectly.
Served in copper tumblers, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually stunning. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to try this summer, the Lemon and Sage Moscow Mule is definitely worth a try.
