Pollen is polluting the senses this spring so you may as well get something out of it by polluting your palate with some vibrant floral-based cocktails.  Indulge in the essences of  Blood Orange, elderberry, roses and orchids. Who knows? Imbibing the sources of pollen may even boost your immunity!

Delft Blue

2 oz. genever

1 oz. crème de violette

/1/2 oz. St. Germain elderflower liqueur

1 oz. fresh lemon juice

Violets

Pour the liquid ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake lightly, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with one or more violets.

Lavender Martini

1 oz. crème de violette

1 oz. gin

1 oz. vodka

1/4 oz. Domaine de Canton

1/4 oz. St. Germaine elderflower liqueur

1 dash Scrappy’s Lavender Bitters

Lavender

Place all liquids into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well, then pour into a martini glass. Garnish with lavender sprigs.

Rose Martini

1 1/2 oz. vodka

1 oz. white crème de cacao

1/4 oz. rose water

1 drop rose food color

Rose petals

Place the liquids in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake to chill. Pour into a martini glass and float with rose petals.

Blood Orange Bee’s Knees

2 oz. gin

1 oz. blood orange juice

1/2 oz. lemon juice 1/2 oz. honey syrup (which is equal parts honey and warm water)

2 dashes Regan’s Orange Bitters

Orchid

Place the liquid ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake, then strain into a chilled glass and garnish with the orchid.