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.