Tasting Notes

The Ghostbuster Cocktail is light, fruity, and perfectly balanced with a playful visual twist. The gin provides a crisp botanical base, while melon and peach liqueurs layer in sweetness and gentle fruit flavor. Lime juice adds acidity that keeps the drink refreshing, and simple syrup softens the citrus edge for a smooth finish. The optional neon green petal dust gives the cocktail a supernatural glow, enhancing its Halloween-ready look. When Irish cream is dropped into the glass, it forms eerie wisps that float and swirl creating a ghost-like effect that makes this cocktail as entertaining as it is flavorful.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare the Ghostbuster Cocktail, you’ll need just a few standard bar tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for combining and chilling the gin, liqueurs, lime juice, and syrup evenly. A strainer ensures a smooth pour into your serving glass without unwanted ice shards. A martini glass works best for presentation, showing off the bright green hue and the swirling “ghost” created by the Irish cream drops. If you choose to use neon green petal dust, a small whisk or bar spoon helps mix it evenly. These simple tools make it easy to create a cocktail that’s striking and festive.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz gin
• 0.75 oz melon liqueur
• 0.75 oz peach liqueur
• 0.5 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 4 drops Irish cream liqueur
• Neon green petal dust (optional) 

Instructions

• Add the gin, melon liqueur, peach liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, Neon green petal dust and cubed ice to a cocktail shaker.
• Shake vigorously until well chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
• Carefully drop 4 drops of Irish cream liqueur into the glass for a ghostly effect.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your hauntingly delicious cocktail!

Pro Tips

• Shake with plenty of ice for a crisp, well-chilled texture.
• Use fresh lime juice for brighter acidity.
• Add the Irish cream slowly for the most distinct “ghost” shapes.
• Chill the martini glass beforehand for a smoother finish.
• Neon green petal dust enhances color without affecting taste.
• Avoid stirring after adding Irish cream it disrupts the effect.
• Try substituting vodka for gin if you prefer a milder base.
• Serve immediately to keep the “ghost” design visible.

When to Serve

The Ghostbuster Cocktail is an ideal drink for Halloween parties, themed gatherings, or movie nights featuring spooky classics. Its bright color and swirling ghostly design make it a fun centerpiece for any festive bar setup. Despite its playful appearance, the flavor profile is balanced and easy to enjoy, appealing to both casual drinkers and cocktail fans alike. This cocktail works best as a pre-dinner or party drink when guests are mingling and enjoying the showmanship of the pour. It’s a conversation starter that brings a bit of creative flair to any celebration.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin: Bombay Sapphire or Tanqueray for smooth botanical balance.
• Melon Liqueur: Midori for bright color and sweet melon flavor.
• Peach Liqueur: DeKuyper Peachtree or Archers for reliable sweetness.
• Irish Cream: Baileys for smooth texture and consistency.
• Petal Dust: Edible neon green dust from brands like Truly Mad Plastics.
• Simple Syrup: Homemade or store-bought, like Monin or Liber & Co.

Similar Cocktails

• Hocus Pocus Fizz
• Witch Heart Cocktail
• Frankenstein’s Fizz
• Green Goblin
• Devil’s Kiss

Print

Ghostbuster

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword gothic cocktails, green cocktails, halloween cocktails, Halloween gin cocktail, irish cream cocktails, Melon cocktails, spooky cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Jenna Haley

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Martini Glass

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz gin
• 0.75 oz melon liqueur
• 0.75 oz peach liqueur
• 0.5 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 4 drops Irish cream liqueur

Instructions

• Add the gin, melon liqueur, peach liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup and cubed ice to a cocktail shaker.
• Shake vigorously until well chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
• Carefully drop 4 drops of Irish cream liqueur into the glass for a ghostly effect.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your hauntingly delicious cocktail!

Video

Notes

Pro Tips

• To achieve the perfect “ghostly” effect, drop the Irish cream in gently so it forms eerie patterns as it disperses.
• Adjust the lime juice to balance the sweetness from the melon and peach liqueurs for a more personalized taste.
• For added spooky flair, garnish with a small piece of dry ice or a Halloween-themed garnish.

Bloody Vesper

The Graveyard Shift

Raspberry Bloodtini

Blood Moon Potion

Sorcerer’s Spell

Ghostbuster

Grape Harvest Cocktail

Tasting Notes

The Lavender Lemon Curd Collins blends floral, citrus, and creamy textures into a cocktail that’s both refreshing and soft. The lemon curd brings a subtle richness and tang that’s lifted by fresh lemon juice and bubbly lemon sparkling water. Lavender notes come through gently from both the syrup and optional lavender gin, balanced by the herbal backbone of classic gin and the citrus sweetness of limoncello. The result is a light, aromatic drink with depth and just enough effervescence to keep it crisp. The lavender sprigs and lemon wheel add a fragrant, summery finish.

Equipment and Glassware

A tall Collins or highball glass is the ideal serving option. You’ll need a jigger for measuring spirits and a long-handled bar spoon for stirring. Instead of a traditional shaker, the Lavender Lemon Curd Collins is built in a nearly empty lemon curd jar, which also acts as a mixing vessel and flavor booster. A fine strainer is optional but helpful if you prefer a smoother pour. For the syrup, use a small saucepan and mesh strainer. A citrus juicer ensures maximum juice from fresh lemons, and a paring knife is useful for prepping garnishes.

Ingredients

For the Cocktail:

• 1–2 tsp lemon curd (use directly from nearly empty jar)
• 1.5 oz gin (lavender gin recommended)
• 1 oz limoncello
• 1 oz honey lavender simple syrup
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• Sparkling lemon water (such as La Croix Limoncello), to top
• Garnish: Lemon wheel and lavender sprig

For Honey Lavender Simple Syrup:

• ½ cup honey
• 1 cup water
• 3–4 heaping tablespoons culinary lavender

Instructions

Make the Honey Lavender Syrup:

• Combine honey, water, and lavender in a medium pot.
• Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes.
• Strain out lavender and transfer syrup to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Make the Cocktail:

• In a jar with 1–2 teaspoons of lemon curd, add gin, limoncello, and honey lavender syrup.
• Add ice to the jar, secure the lid, and shake until chilled.
• Open the jar, pour in lemon juice and top with sparkling lemon water.
• Stir to mix all ingredients evenly.
• Garnish with a lemon wheel and a lavender sprig (or two).

Pro Tips

• Use lavender-infused gin to amplify the floral profile
• Let lemon curd reach room temperature to mix more easily
• Shake thoroughly to break up the lemon curd and avoid clumps
• Chill sparkling water beforehand to maintain fizz
• Add lemon juice after shaking to keep its brightness
• For a clearer cocktail, strain after shaking
• Double the syrup recipe and store in the fridge for up to two weeks
• Culinary-grade dried lavender is best for syrup quality
• Use edible lavender for garnish if serving to guests
• Adjust syrup sweetness based on the tartness of your curd

When to Serve

This Lavender Lemon Curd Collins is ideal for brunch, spring and summer garden parties, bridal showers, or afternoon picnics. Its fresh, citrus-forward profile pairs well with pastries, fruit salads, or goat cheese canapés. It also makes a lovely option for a welcome drink thanks to its light alcohol content and visually striking garnishes. Serve it when you want something crisp, fragrant, and a little different from the standard Collins variation.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Gin

• Empress 1908 (for a floral and colorful option)
• Hendrick’s Gin
• The Botanist
• Bombay Sapphire
• Uncle Val’s Botanical Gin

Limoncello

• Pallini Limoncello
• Caravella
• Luxardo
• Villa Massa
• Meletti Limoncello

Similar Cocktails

• Violet Vodka Lemonade
• Peach Basil Gin and Tonic
• Pink Lemon Drop Martini
• Strawberry Limoncello Mint Sangria
• Limoncello Lemon Drop

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Lavender Lemon Curd Collins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword Bridal Shower Drinks, gin cocktails, lavender cocktails, lemon cocktails, limoncello cocktails, Sparkling Water Cocktails, spring cocktails, summer cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Jenna Haley

Equipment

• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Strainer
• Mason Jar

Ingredients

For the Cocktail:

• 1 –2 tsp lemon curd use directly from nearly empty jar
• 1.5 oz gin lavender gin recommended
• 1 oz limoncello
• 1 oz honey lavender simple syrup
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• Sparkling lemon water such as La Croix Limoncello, to top
• Garnish: Lemon wheel and lavender sprig

For Honey Lavender Simple Syrup:

• ½ cup honey
• 1 cup water
• 3 –4 heaping tablespoons culinary lavender

Instructions

Make the Honey Lavender Syrup:

• Combine honey, water, and lavender in a medium pot.
• Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes.
• Strain out lavender and transfer syrup to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Make the Cocktail:

• In a jar with 1–2 teaspoons of lemon curd, add gin, limoncello, and honey lavender syrup.
• Add ice to the jar, secure the lid, and shake until chilled.
• Open the jar, pour in lemon juice and top with sparkling lemon water.
• Stir to mix all ingredients evenly.
• Garnish with a lemon wheel and a lavender sprig (or two).

Video

Notes

Pro Tips

• If you don’t have lavender gin, regular gin works just let the syrup carry the floral flavor.
• Use culinary-grade lavender only, as ornamental types can taste soapy.
• Add the lemon juice and sparkling water after shaking to preserve carbonation.

Tasting Notes

This Peach Basil Gin and Tonic is fresh and lightly aromatic, with sweet summer peach upfront and hints of basil rounding out each sip. The gin brings structure with its botanical base, while lemon juice adds a splash of brightness to balance the sweetness of the peach liqueur. Tonic water stretches the drink, lending a crisp, slightly bitter finish that keeps the flavors balanced. The muddled basil adds an herbal note without overpowering, letting the fruit shine while adding a cool, garden-fresh quality. Peach slices and a basil sprig make it visually appealing and fragrant.

Equipment and Glassware

To make this Peach Basil Gin and Tonic, you’ll need a shaker for mixing and chilling, a muddler to gently press the basil and peach, and a fine mesh strainer or tea strainer to remove solids for a clean pour. A jigger ensures accurate measuring, and a bar spoon helps with topping the tonic water smoothly. Serve in a rocks glass or large double old fashioned glass to allow space for fresh ice, peach slices, and tonic without crowding.

Ingredients

• 4 large basil leaves, plus 1 sprig for garnish
• 1 small peach, pitted and sliced
• 2 oz gin
• 0.5 oz peach liqueur
• 0.75 oz lemon juice
• 3 oz tonic water
• Garnish: basil sprig and peach slices

Instructions

• Add the basil leaves and peach slices to a cocktail shaker and muddle gently for 5–10 seconds to release their oils and juice.
• Pour in the gin, peach liqueur, and lemon juice.
• Add ice and shake until the mixture is well chilled.
• Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice and a few peach slices.
• Pour in the strained liquid and top with tonic water.
• Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of basil.

Pro Tips

• Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor and color.
• Muddle basil gently to avoid bitterness from over-crushing the leaves.
• Always double strain to prevent pulp or basil bits in the final drink.
• Chill your tonic water beforehand for better carbonation.
• Use a high-quality tonic to avoid overly sweet or artificial flavors.
• Add peach slices to the serving glass just before pouring for visual appeal.
• Try flavored tonic like elderflower or cucumber for a twist.
• Make a large batch of the base mixture (minus tonic) for easier serving at gatherings.

When to Serve

This Peach Basil Gin and Tonic shines in late spring through summer, especially when peaches are in season. It’s a great fit for outdoor brunches, garden parties, or warm evening gatherings. Light, flavorful, and refreshing, it pairs well with grilled dishes, salads, and fresh cheeses. It also works nicely as a welcome drink for small get-togethers where you want to highlight seasonal produce without heavy ingredients.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin:
  • Bombay Sapphire
  • Hendrick’s
  • Tanqueray
  • Roku
  • Botanist
• Peach Liqueur:
  • Giffard Crème de Pêche
  • Bols Peach
  • Mathilde Pêche
  • DeKuyper Peachtree
  • Rothman & Winter Peach

Similar Cocktails

• Blood Orange Basil Margarita
• Cantaloupe Mojito
• Dr Pepper Margarita
• Orange Crush 
• Sweet Corn Margarita

Print

Peach Basil Gin and Tonic

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword Basil, basil cocktails, classic gin cocktails, gin and tonic, gin and tonic variations, gin cocktails, peach gin cocktails, peach liqueur, tonic water, tonic water cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Muddler
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Strainer
• Rocks Glass

Ingredients

• 4 large basil leaves plus 1 sprig for garnish
• 1 small peach pitted and sliced
• 2 oz gin
• 0.5 oz peach liqueur
• 0.75 oz lemon juice
• 3 oz tonic water
• Garnish: basil sprig and peach slices

Instructions

• Add the basil leaves and peach slices to a cocktail shaker and muddle gently for 5–10 seconds to release their oils and juice.
• Pour in the gin, peach liqueur, and lemon juice.
• Add ice and shake until the mixture is well chilled.
• Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice and a few peach slices.
• Pour in the strained liquid and top with tonic water.
• Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of basil.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Choose a ripe, juicy peach for maximum flavor and sweetness.
• Muddle gently over-muddling basil can cause bitterness.
• Use a dry tonic to keep the drink balanced and not overly sweet.

Tasting Notes

The Royal Hawaiian is bright, smooth, and layered with tropical flavors. Pineapple juice adds juicy sweetness, lemon juice brings just enough tang, and orgeat lends a subtle almond note. When poured over crushed ice, the Empress gin floats on top with its deep indigo hue, adding both botanical complexity and striking color contrast. As the drink is sipped or stirred, the flavors slowly blend, creating a cool, fruit-forward profile with a whisper of florals and citrus. The finish is refreshing without being overly sweet, making it a relaxing yet eye-catching drink.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker to mix the base, a strainer to pour it cleanly, and a bar spoon for the gin float if you want a clean separation. Crushed ice is essential for both texture and presentation. A Collins or highball glass works best it gives enough height for the layered effect and holds the crushed ice comfortably. A jigger or small measuring tool ensures accurate proportions, and a knife or garnish pick will help with prepping and placing the pineapple slice. For the cleanest gin float, pour slowly over the back of a spoon.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
• 2.5 oz pineapple juice
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
• 0.5 oz orgeat syrup
• Pineapple slice for garnish

Instructions

• In a shaker, combine the pineapple juice, lemon juice, and orgeat syrup.
• Add ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with crushed ice.
• Gently pour the Empress 1908 Indigo Gin over the top, creating a vibrant layer.
• Garnish with a pineapple slice for a tropical touch.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh pineapple juice for a more natural flavor
• Chill the glass ahead of time to help maintain the layered effect
• Pour the gin gently to keep the separation clean
• Crushed ice keeps the drink colder and enhances texture
• If you don’t have orgeat, almond syrup can work in a pinch
• Add a small dash of bitters if you want more depth
• Garnish with a pineapple wedge, leaf, or edible flower for a striking finish
• Use a clear Collins glass to show off the layers

When to Serve

The Royal Hawaiian fits warm weather and relaxed settings. It’s ideal for brunches, afternoon gatherings, or vacation-style evenings. With its bold color and tropical flavors, it makes a strong impression at themed parties or summer events. The layered look works well for occasions where presentation matters garden parties, baby showers, or cocktail hours with a view. Serve it when you want something light, flavorful, and visually memorable without being too high in alcohol. It’s also a great way to highlight Empress Gin in a showy yet simple format.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Gin:

• Empress 1908 Indigo Gin (recommended for color and flavor)
• Bombay Sapphire (if color isn’t essential)
• Roku Gin (for a floral profile)
• The Botanist (for herbal complexity)

Orgeat Syrup:

• Giffard Orgeat Syrup
• Small Hand Foods
• Liber & Co.
• BG Reynolds

Similar Cocktails

If you enjoy Royal Hawaiian Cocktail, here are five similar cocktails to try:

• Pineapple Bourbon Lemonade
• Pretty in Pink
• Pineapple Collins
• Pineapple Gin Fizz
• Blueberry Pineapple Bramble

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Royal Hawaiian

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword bbq cocktails, beach cocktails, empress gin cocktails, layered cocktails, lemon juice cocktails, Orgeat Cocktails, pineapple juice cocktails, Tropical cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Strainer
• Jigger
• Collins Glass
• Bar Spoon

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
• 2.5 oz pineapple juice
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
• 0.5 oz orgeat syrup
• Pineapple slice for garnish

Instructions

• In a shaker, combine the pineapple juice, lemon juice, and orgeat syrup.
• Add ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with crushed ice.
• Gently pour the Empress 1908 Indigo Gin over the top, creating a vibrant layer.
• Garnish with a pineapple slice for a tropical touch.

Notes

Pro Tips

• To preserve the layered look, pour the gin gently and avoid disturbing the crushed ice.
• If you don’t have crushed ice, gently crush cubes with a mallet or use a Lewis bag.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.

Tasting Notes

The Chocolate Negroni is a twist on the classic cocktail that adds a bittersweet richness without overwhelming the drink’s structure. Campari’s signature bitter notes shine through but are softened slightly by the chocolate-orange syrup, which introduces a subtle warmth and a dessert-like depth. The gin provides backbone and botanical lift, while the sweet vermouth ties it all together with light herbal sweetness. Each sip brings a balance of bitter, citrus, and dark cocoa, ending with a clean finish. This is a drink for those who enjoy contrast and complexity in a stirred cocktail.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare a Chocolate Negroni, you’ll need a mixing glass, a bar spoon, a jigger, and a strainer. Stirring this cocktail rather than shaking is key to preserving its clarity and mouthfeel. Use large, clear ice cubes to chill the drink without excessive dilution. A sharp peeler is helpful for making a clean orange peel garnish. Serve in a rocks glass, which accommodates the low volume of the cocktail and allows the garnish’s aroma to complement the drink as you sip.

Ingredients

• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz dry gin
• 0.5 oz sweet vermouth
• 0.5 oz chocolate-orange syrup
• Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions

• Add the Campari, gin, sweet vermouth, and chocolate-orange syrup to a mixing glass filled with ice.
• Stir gently until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and slightly diluted.
• Strain into a rocks glass over large ice cube.
• Twist an orange peel over the drink to express the oils, then drop it in as garnish.

Pro Tips

• Use a quality chocolate-orange syrup or make your own for better control over sweetness
• Stir with large, cold ice to chill without over-diluting
• Use a citrus-forward gin to complement the orange in the syrup
• Chill the rocks glass ahead of time to keep the drink colder longer
• For added aroma, flame the orange peel before garnishing
• Store vermouth in the fridge after opening to preserve flavor
• Use a clear cube or sphere of ice for a refined presentation
• Adjust the syrup amount for more or less sweetness depending on preference

When to Serve

The Chocolate Negroni suits relaxed evenings, winter cocktail hours, and dinner parties where something rich yet bitter is welcome. It pairs well with dark chocolate desserts, orange tarts, or spiced nuts. Thanks to its low volume and stirred format, it also fits as a nightcap. This drink’s profile makes it a great conversation piece, offering something familiar yet slightly unexpected. Serve it when guests want something spirit-forward with a hint of sweetness and depth.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Gin:

• Tanqueray
• Beefeater
• Bombay Sapphire
• Plymouth Gin
• Sipsmith London Dry

Vermouth:

• Carpano Antica Formula
• Dolin Rouge
• Cocchi Vermouth di Torino

Campari:

• Campari (no substitutions recommended)

Similar Cocktails

• Blood Orange Negroni
• Strawberry Negroni
• Bridgetown Negroni
• Nirvana
• Enzoni

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Chocolate Negroni

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword campari cocktails, classic gin cocktails, manly cocktails, negroni variations, sweet vermouth cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Mixing Glass
• Bar Spoon
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Rocks Glass

Ingredients

• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz dry gin
• 0.5 oz sweet vermouth
• 0.5 oz chocolate-orange syrup
• Orange peel for garnish

Instructions

• Add the Campari, gin, sweet vermouth, and chocolate-orange syrup to a mixing glass filled with ice.
• Stir gently until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and slightly diluted.
• Strain into a rocks glass over large ice cubes.
• Twist an orange peel over the drink to express the oils, then drop it in as garnish.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Use a high-quality gin with strong botanical notes to stand up to the Campari and syrup.
• Make your own chocolate-orange syrup by combining cocoa powder, sugar, water, and orange zest simmered briefly, then strained and cooled.
• Chill your rocks glass in advance to keep the drink cool longer without over-dilution.

Tasting Notes

The Ginger Hibiscus Martini brings together herbal, floral, and citrus flavors with a clean finish. The hibiscus tea gives a tart, fruity edge, while lemon juice sharpens the mix with bright acidity. Muddled ginger provides warmth and a slight bite, adding dimension without overwhelming the other components. The gin’s botanicals support the hibiscus without clashing, and the white vermouth smooths the drink out with subtle sweetness. Served chilled and garnished with a lemon twist, the result is crisp, refreshing, and slightly spicy ideal for those who appreciate balance and complexity in a cocktail.

Equipment and Glassware

To make this Ginger Hibiscus Martini, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for muddling and mixing, a fine strainer to filter out the ginger pulp, and a jigger for precise measurement. A muddler or wooden spoon helps release the flavor from fresh ginger slices. Use a citrus peeler or paring knife to cut a clean lemon twist. A standard martini or coupe glass is the best vessel for this drink, as it allows the chilled, clarified liquid to shine while supporting the garnish and enhancing the presentation.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz sweetened hibiscus tea
• 0.75 oz lemon juice
• 2 slices fresh ginger
• 2 oz gin
• 0.5 oz white vermouth
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

• Add the hibiscus tea, lemon juice, and ginger slices to a cocktail shaker.
• Muddle the ginger firmly to release its flavor.
• Pour in the gin and white vermouth, then fill the shaker with ice.
• Shake thoroughly until well chilled.
• Strain into a chilled martini glass.
• Garnish with a twist of lemon.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly brewed hibiscus tea for stronger color and flavor
• Muddle ginger well, but avoid shredding it into the liquid
• Fine strain to keep texture smooth and refined
• Pre-chill your martini glass for a crisp presentation
• Choose a gin with floral or citrus-forward notes to complement the hibiscus
• If desired, adjust sweetness with a few drops of simple syrup
• Slice lemon peel thin for a more delicate garnish
• Shake for at least 15 seconds for proper dilution and chill

When to Serve

The Ginger Hibiscus Martini is perfect for spring and summer evenings, cocktail parties, and weekend happy hours. It fits well on menus for garden gatherings, bridal showers, or any occasion where light and floral drinks are welcome. Thanks to its herbal character, it also suits early evening or pre-dinner moments. Serve it when you want something slightly unconventional yet approachable, especially among gin drinkers looking for something new and refreshing.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Gin:

• Bombay Sapphire
• Hendrick’s
• Tanqueray
• The Botanist
• Sipsmith

White Vermouth:

• Dolin Dry
• Noilly Prat
• Martini & Rossi Extra Dry
• Cinzano Extra Dry
• Carpano Dry

Similar Cocktails

• Bitter Lemon Cooler
• Tropical Gin Sunrise
• Dirty Beet Martini
• Blood Orange Negroni
• Melon Ball Collins

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Ginger Hibiscus Martini

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword classic gin cocktails, ginger cocktails, hibiscus cocktails, lemon juice cocktails, martini variations, red cocktails, vermouth cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Muddler
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Martini Glass

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz sweetened hibiscus tea
• 0.75 oz lemon juice
• 2 slices fresh ginger
• 2 oz gin
• 0.5 oz white vermouth
• Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions

• Add the hibiscus tea, lemon juice, and ginger slices to a cocktail shaker.
• Muddle the ginger firmly to release its flavor.
• Pour in the gin and white vermouth, then fill the shaker with ice.
• Shake thoroughly until well chilled.
• Strain into a chilled martini glass.
• Garnish with a twist of lemon.

Notes

Pro Tips

• For a smoother finish, double strain the drink to remove any ginger fibers.
• Use fresh, cooled hibiscus tea that’s lightly sweetened to avoid overpowering the drink.
• Adjust sweetness by adding a touch of simple syrup if your tea isn’t already sweetened.

Tasting Notes

The Strawberry Clover Club is a bright and refreshing cocktail with a silky texture from the egg white and a vibrant strawberry character. Gin brings herbal depth that balances the sweetness of the strawberry syrup, while lemon juice adds crisp acidity. The shake creates a smooth foam layer that sits on top, offering a luxurious feel with every sip. The garnish adds a visual pop and a hint of fresh fruit aroma. This drink walks the line between tart and sweet, finishing with a clean, slightly botanical edge.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare this Strawberry Clover Club, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, a strainer (fine mesh preferred), and a jigger for measuring. A sharp knife and cutting board are useful for prepping the garnish. For the best presentation, serve it in a chilled coupe glass, which highlights the frothy top layer and elegant color. A citrus juicer will come in handy for fresh lime juice, and a small whisk or cocktail shaker spring can help intensify the foam during the dry shake.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz strawberry syrup
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
• 1 egg white

Garnish:

• Fresh strawberry

Instructions

• Add the gin, strawberry syrup, lime juice, and egg white to a cocktail shaker without ice.
• Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to create a strong foam.
• Add a few ice cubes to the shaker and shake again until chilled, about 30 seconds.
• Strain into a coupe glass, allowing the foam to settle on top.
• Garnish with a fresh strawberry.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice for better flavor
• Chill your coupe glass before serving
• Shake without ice first (dry shake) to build a stable foam
• Use a strainer to keep the foam smooth and free of ice shards
• Add a spring or whisk ball to your shaker to help emulsify the egg white
• Homemade strawberry syrup provides better flavor than bottled
• Slice the garnish and notch it on the rim for a cleaner look
• Fine strain to avoid pulp or strawberry seeds
• Don’t skip the second shake it chills and aerates the drink properly
• Serve immediately to enjoy the foam at its peak

When to Serve

The Strawberry Clover Club is a great pick for brunch, spring and summer get-togethers, or as a light drink before dinner. Its soft pink color and creamy top make it perfect for special occasions like baby showers, bridal parties, or even a sweet Valentine’s Day evening. This drink brings a nice mix of classic and fun, so it works well when you want something that feels a little fancy but still easy to enjoy.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin:
  • Bombay Sapphire
  • Beefeater
  • Tanqueray
  • Hendrick’s
  • Plymouth Gin

Similar Cocktails

• Strawberry Southside
• Matcha Gin Sour
• Strawberry Negroni
• Aperol Fizz
• Strawberry Rose Bramble

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Strawberry Clover Club

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword egg white cocktails, gin cocktails, strawberry cocktails, strawberry gin cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Fine strainer
• Coupe Glass

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz strawberry syrup
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
• 1 egg white

Garnish:

• Fresh strawberry

Instructions

• Add the gin, strawberry syrup, lemon juice, and egg white to a cocktail shaker without ice.
• Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to create a strong foam.
• Add a few ice cubes to the shaker and shake again until chilled, about 30 seconds.
• Strain into a coupe glass, allowing the foam to settle on top.
• Garnish with a fresh strawberry.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Use a reverse dry shake (shake with ice first, then without) if you prefer a denser foam.
• Homemade strawberry syrup made with fresh berries adds better flavor than bottled versions.
• Chill your glass beforehand to help preserve the frothy top.

Tasting Notes

The Pink Lady Spritz is crisp, slightly tart, and gently sweet with herbal and fruity notes that unfold gradually. The gin provides a dry botanical base, while the pink lady cordial or cloudy apple juice brings a soft apple profile with a touch of natural sweetness. Lime juice brightens the mix with acidity, and soda water adds a refreshing lift. The apple peel and mint garnish contribute light aromatics that complement the core flavors. It’s a clean, refreshing drink with layers of apple, citrus, and herb that remain light on the palate.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare this Pink Lady Spritz, you’ll need a jigger, bar spoon, and paring knife. No shaker is required, as the cocktail is built directly in the serving glass. Use a large wine glass to allow plenty of space for ice and garnish. A jigger ensures accurate measurements for balance, while a long bar spoon helps blend the ingredients evenly. A paring knife is helpful for slicing and rolling the apple peel garnish, while a small muddler or chopstick can assist in placing the mint leaf neatly.

Ingredients

• 1.75 oz gin
• 0.75 oz pink lady cordial
• 0.75 oz lime juice
• 3 oz soda water, to top

Garnish:

• Rolled red apple peel
• Mint leaf

Instructions

• Fill a wine glass with ice.
• Add gin, pink lady cordial, and lime juice.
• Top with soda water.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a rolled red apple peel and a fresh mint leaf.

Pro Tips

• Use a fruit-forward gin to enhance the apple character
• If pink lady cordial is unavailable, use a high-quality cloudy apple juice
• Chill all ingredients beforehand to keep the drink cold without diluting
• Avoid over-stirring after adding soda water to preserve bubbles
• Roll apple peel with a cocktail pick to help it keep its shape
• Add mint at the very end to preserve aroma
• Try flavored soda water (apple or elderflower) for a twist
• Use clear ice cubes for a cleaner look
• Test apple juice for sweetness and adjust lime juice as needed
• Garnish just before serving for maximum freshness

When to Serve

The Pink Lady Spritz is ideal for spring and summer afternoons, brunches, or pre-dinner drinks. Its low alcohol content and bright flavor profile make it a great choice for casual outdoor settings, baby showers, or garden parties. This cocktail fits well into any event where light, refreshing drinks are appreciated. It also works as a non-fussy option for quick mixing during low-key entertaining.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin:
  • Bombay Sapphire
  • Hendrick’s
  • Tanqueray No. TEN
• Apple Juice/Cordial:
  • Martinelli’s Apple Juice (cloudy)
  • Belvoir Farm Apple Cordial
  • Luscombe Apple Juice
• Soda Water:
  • Topo Chico
  • Fever-Tree Club Soda
  • San Pellegrino Sparkling Water

Similar Cocktails

• Strawberry Southside
• Cherry Gin Rickey
• Tropical Gin Sunrise
• Lavender Grapefruit Sparkler
• Cucumber Dream

Print

Pink Lady Spritz

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword gin cocktails, pink cocktails, soda water cocktails, summer cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Wine Glass

Ingredients

• 1.75 oz gin
• 0.75 oz pink lady cordial
• 0.75 oz lime juice
• 3 oz soda water to top

Garnish:

• Rolled red apple peel
• Mint leaf

Instructions

• Fill a wine glass with ice.
• Add gin, pink lady cordial, and lime juice.
• Top with soda water.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a rolled red apple peel and a fresh mint leaf.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Use a floral-forward gin to complement the apple and citrus notes.
• If using apple juice instead of cordial, add a dash of simple syrup if more sweetness is desired.
• Chill your soda water beforehand to maintain a crisp mouthfeel.

Tasting Notes

This Tropical Gin Sunrise blends the crisp character of gin with the juicy sweetness of pineapple and the tart complexity of raspberry lambic. The lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy edge that sharpens the finish without overpowering the fruity core. Each sip starts off lightly sweet and tropical, with the raspberry lambic offering a subtle tang and effervescence. As the drink settles, the layers of flavor become more noticeable herbal notes from the gin, gentle acidity from the lemon, and a round, full body from the pineapple. Refreshing and easygoing, this is a fruit-forward cocktail with a clean, lifted finish.

Equipment and Glassware

This Tropical Gin Sunrise is easy to prepare with just a few basic tools. A jigger will help you measure accurately, while a cocktail shaker ensures proper mixing. A fine mesh strainer is optional but useful if you want to remove pulp after shaking. A citrus press or reamer makes quick work of fresh lemon juice. Serve the Tropical Gin Sunrise in a chilled highball or Collins glass to emphasize its color layers and volume. For garnish, use a cocktail skewer or small pick to present fresh pineapple chunks on the rim or resting inside the glass.

Ingredients

• 1 oz raspberry lambic
• 4 oz pineapple juice
• 2 oz gin
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• Garnish: pineapple chunks

Instructions

• Fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the raspberry lambic.
• In a shaker filled with ice, combine pineapple juice, gin, and lemon juice.
• Shake briefly until chilled.
• Slowly pour the shaken mixture over the back of a spoon into the glass to create a layered effect.
• Garnish with pineapple chunks before serving.

Pro Tips

• Use high-quality pineapple juice for a fuller flavor
• Chill your glassware to keep the drink colder longer
• Layer the raspberry lambic slowly to preserve color contrast
• Fresh-squeezed lemon juice offers the best acidity
• A floral or citrus-forward gin works well here
• If lambic is too strong, reduce to 0.5 oz
• Garnish with grilled pineapple for added depth
• Serve with a straw to keep the float intact until stirred
• Consider adding crushed ice for texture variation
• Prep pineapple chunks ahead of time and chill until needed

When to Serve

This Tropical Gin Sunrise is ideal for daytime occasions think brunch, outdoor parties, or warm afternoons. It’s perfect for beachside drinks, pool gatherings, or casual happy hours. Its balance of fruit, bubbles, and brightness makes it a great opener for tropical-themed dinners or light summer meals. Serve it when you want something visually eye-catching and easy to sip. The gentle alcohol content also makes it well-suited to slower-paced settings where flavor, not strength, takes the spotlight.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin:
  • Bombay Sapphire
  • Hendrick’s
  • Tanqueray
  • The Botanist
  • Sipsmith
• Raspberry Lambic:
  • Lindemans Framboise
  • Brouwerij Boon Framboise
  • Oud Beersel Framboise
  • Timmermans Framboise
  • Hanssens Artisanaal Framboos

Similar Cocktails

• Enzoni
• Empress Coconut Lychee Breeze
• Cucumber and Rose Collins
• Matcha Gin Sour
• Lavender Grapefruit Sparkler

Print

Tropical Gin Sunrise

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword classic gin cocktails, easy gin cocktails, gin cocktails, lemon juice cocktails, pineapple cocktails, pineapple juice cocktails, raspberry lambic, Tropical cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Highball Glass

Ingredients

• 1 oz raspberry lambic
• 4 oz pineapple juice
• 2 oz gin
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
• Garnish: pineapple chunks

Instructions

• Fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the raspberry lambic.
• In a shaker filled with ice, combine pineapple juice, gin, and lemon juice.
• Shake briefly until chilled.
• Slowly pour the shaken mixture over the back of a spoon into the glass to create a layered effect.
• Garnish with pineapple chunks before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips

• For a more pronounced “sunrise” look, tilt the glass slightly while pouring the second layer.
• Chill all ingredients beforehand to help maintain clean layers.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest citrus flavor.