Itβs time to set aside frothy nogs and steaming mugs of ciderβthe worst of winter is behind us, and the delights of spring are on the way. As the weather warms and flowers begin to bloom, you need a cocktail that is equally invigorating. Made with fresh flowers, herbs and seasonal produce, these seven sprightly cocktails are the best drinks for springtime.
James Spaderβs character in The Blacklist described the Aviation best: β...tastes like spring, doesnβt it?β This floral-flecked variation on a gin sour may as well be the mascot for the fairest of seasons. To get its flavor and alluring violet hue, the Aviation employs the delicate but potent crΓ¨me de violette, a violet-flavored liqueur that was revived in the United States by liqueur-maker Rothman & Winter in 2007.
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The uplifting flavor of fragrant, fresh roses is a perfect match for effervescent sparkling wine, which tops this simple amalgam of Aperol and rose petal syrup. The spritzy, bittersweet drink will give you the feeling that youβre walking through a garden, and the leftover ingredients can even be used in an at-home pampering spa treatment.
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Whiskey gets a breath of fresh air in this seasonal twist on the Sazerac, which doubles-down on the classicβs savory aromatics with the addition of caraway-tinged aquavit, cumin-flavored Kummel liqueur and celery bitters. A generous garnish of fennel fronds give it an ultra-fresh aromaβperfect for when you feel like lounging around outdoors.
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Matcha tea lattes are one of our favorite winter indulgences, but come springtime, this bright, cold brew matcha cocktail really hits the spot. The vivid green spritz pairs the bitter notes of matcha with vegetal Bison Grass vodka, and gets a kick of sweetness from a zesty oleo saccharum syrup.
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A simple Gin & Tonic may be an ideal spring cocktail on its own, but this floral variation is masterpiece for the season. Homemade lavender cordial, spicy ginger syrup and fresh lemon juice give the G&T new life, channeling fizzy lemonade with a delightful boozy kick.
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This creamy egg white cocktail may be inspired by a field of flowers, but itβs not your average garden variety drink. Earl grey tea syrup and botanical-laced London Dry gin infuse this Gin Fizz with an herbaceous kick, while a few dashes of lavender bitters and an eye-catching lavender sprig add the perfect touch of perfume.
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The classic peach Bellini gets an herbal, bittersweet makeover in this White Negroni-inspired twist. Peach liqueur is added in place of purΓ©e and the bitter, citrusy flavor of Suze aperitif gives the drink some much needed edge. Finish it off with fresh tarragon for garnish, and youβve got a balanced cocktail that worth of any bottomless brunch.
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As dark and bitter as winter may be, you can always count on spring to come right around the corner and wipe away that slushy nightmareβand you can always count on a refreshing Mojito to pep you up for a season of fresh, minty summer cocktails. Be gentle as you muddle your cooling herbs, letting the full flavor of the leaves shine by just slightly pressing them to release their oils. Donβt crush them (like that winter blizzard crushed your soul).
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If you missed the memo that it was time to put away your heavy winter coat and don your lightest tee, bright red rhubarb will remind you it's springtime. This ruby Margarita variation embraces the sweet-tart flavor of lightly sweetened rhubarb, combining it with rosemary and elderflower liqueur for a sweet, sour and floral sipper. Consider taking yours al fresco once you run home and change.
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