Refreshing Lavender Cosmopolitan Cocktail Recipe and Tips

The Lavender Cosmopolitan - A Refreshing Vodka Cocktail

The lavender cosmopolitan is a fun twist on the classic cosmopolitan cocktail that incorporates floral and herbal notes from lavender. This vodka-based cocktail has tangy, citrusy flavors that are balanced by the gentle sweetness of triple sec and cranberry juice. With its beautiful purple hue and enticing aromas, the lavender cosmopolitan is sure to impress guests at your next brunch or cocktail party.

History and Origins

The traditional cosmopolitan cocktail has a debatable history, with various bartenders and establishments claiming to have invented the iconic vodka, triple sec, lime juice and cranberry juice drink. The earliest known published recipe dates back to 1988. The lavender cosmopolitan is a more modern interpretation that adds floral lavender flavor to the classic recipe.

Adding floral flavors like lavender to cocktails has been trending in recent years. The herb's gentle aromatics pair beautifully with the citrusy vodka and cranberry notes in the traditional cosmopolitan. While the lavender cosmopolitan may not have the storied history of the original, its unique and balanced flavors have made it popular at brunches and special events.

Ingredients & Mixology

The lavender cosmopolitan showcases the floral flavor of lavender beautifully with classic cosmopolitan ingredients:

• 2 ounces citrus vodka
• 1 ounce triple sec
• 1⁄2 ounce lime juice
• 1⁄4 ounce lavender syrup
• 1 ounce cranberry juice
• Lavender sprig for garnish

First, rim a chilled cocktail glass with sugar to contrast and balance the drink's tart flavors. Add several ice cubes to a cocktail shaker.

Next, measure the vodka, triple sec, lime juice, lavender syrup and cranberry juice into the shaker. Shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds until thoroughly chilled.

Fine-strain the cocktail into the chilled, sugar-rimmed glass. Garnish with a fresh sprig of lavender. Serve cold.

Make Your Own Lavender Syrup

Purchasing lavender syrup from a specialty store can be pricey. Luckily, infused lavender syrup is easy and affordable to make at home with sugar and dried lavender buds.

Simply combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan with a tablespoon of dried lavender buds per cup of syrup. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the sugar fully dissolves. Remove from heat and allow to steep for at least a few hours or overnight to extract the maximum lavender flavor.

Fine-strain the finished lavender syrup through cheesecloth to remove any leaves or buds. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Unique Flavor Profile

The lavender cosmopolitan offers a flavor journey that begins with aromatic floral notes. The initial sip highlights the smooth citrus vodka and sweet yet tangy triple sec.

Tart lime and cranberry juices give the mid-palate a fruity kick of acidity to balance the vodka and sugar. Finally, the subtle perfume of lavender lingers on the finish for a deliciously smooth and refreshing cocktail.

Serving Suggestions

The lovely color and flavours of the lavender cosmopolitan make it a showstopper cocktail for celebrations, brunch or ladies’ night. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day Cocktail Party – the purple hue suits these holidays beautifully
• Bridal or Baby Shower – coordinate napkins and decorations with the cocktail’s color
• Brunch with Mimosas – offer lavender cosmopolitans as a unique alternative
• Girls’ Night In – serve lavender cosmopolitans in a punch bowl or individually

The aromatics of the lavender pair wonderfully with brunch flavors like eggs, bacon, waffles and fruit. For ladies’ gatherings, add feminine touches like fresh flowers, candles and charming glassware or teacups.

Tips for the Perfect Lavender Cosmo

As with any cocktail that has multiple ingredients, there are some helpful tips to achieve the ideal balance of flavors:

• Use a high-quality citrus vodka for a clean flavor base
• Select 100% cranberry juice without added sugars or flavorings
• Shake vigorously with ice to properly chill and dilute
• Consider muddling the lavender sprig in the bottom of the glass before straining the cocktail to boost the floral aroma
• Garnish with lemon twists or additional fresh lavender instead of maraschino cherries

The proportions of juices and sweet triple sec can be adjusted to taste preference, but the full ounce of lavender syrup is key for its distinctive floral identity.

Experiment with Lavender Syrup Ratios

When preparing your homemade lavender syrup, try different lavender bud ratios to achieve the desired intensity of floral flavor.

A standard simple syrup preparation calls for equal parts sugar and water. To infuse lavender flavor, the common ratio is 1 cup of syrup to 1 tablespoon of dried lavender buds.

For a more pronounced lavender presence, increase buds to 1.5 or 2 tablespoons per cup of simple syrup. Taste test in cocktails and adjust to your liking.

You can also play with the types of lavender used. Spanish and French lavenders are considered higher quality for cooking and cocktails compared to other varieties.

Enjoy This Beautiful Purple Cocktail

With its gorgeous purple color and tantalizing aromatics, the lavender cosmopolitan is a showstopping cocktail for your next brunch or girls' gathering. The floral lavender pairs perfectly with the classic cosmopolitan flavors of vodka, cranberry and citrus.

Infusing your own lavender syrup and fine-tuning the ratios allows you to customize the intensity of the flower's perfume notes. Impress your guests with this stunning purple drink.

FAQs

What ingredients are in a lavender cosmopolitan?

A lavender cosmopolitan contains citrus vodka, triple sec, lime juice, homemade lavender syrup, cranberry juice, and a lavender sprig garnish.

Do you need special equipment to make a lavender cosmo?

The only equipment required is a cocktail shaker, strainer, sugar to rim the glass, and a glass to serve it in. A saucepan is also handy if you make your own lavender syrup.

What type of vodka works best?

A high-quality citrus vodka allows the floral lavender flavors to shine. Avoid heavily flavored vodkas like vanilla or whipped cream.

Can I use pre-made lavender syrup?

Yes, pre-made lavender syrup saves time but can be expensive. Making your own lavender simple syrup at home is affordable, customizable and easy.