The Lavender Collins is the perfect drink for those who love classic cocktails with a floral upgrade. This refreshing combination of lemon, lavender, and soda water makes for a simple yet sophisticated sip. Here’s how to make it at home.
Equipment
To make a perfect Lavender Collins, you’ll need some basic bar tools. Gather a cocktail shaker for combining your ingredients smoothly. A jigger is essential for accurate measurements of spirits. Use a fine strainer to remove any lavender bits. Finally, serve your cocktail in a Collins glass, tall to allow for a generous serving of soda water and ice. These tools ensure a well-mixed and aesthetically pleasing drink.
Ingredients
The Lavender Collins requires specific ingredients to achieve its distinct flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.5 ounces of gin
- 1 ounce of lavender syrup
- 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice
- Soda water
- Fresh lavender sprig and lemon peel for garnish
- Ice
The lavender syrup can be made at home or purchased. Be sure to keep all ingredients fresh for the best taste.
Instructions
Making a Lavender Collins is straightforward when following these steps:
- Combine gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice in the cocktail shaker.
- Add ice cubes and shake well for about 15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
- Top up with soda water to your preference.
- Garnish with a lavender sprig and lemon peel to enhance aroma and presentation.
This method creates a refreshing, aromatic cocktail perfect for any occasion.
Tasting Notes
When you take a sip of the Lavender Collins, expect an aromatic burst of lavender complemented by the tartness of lemon juice. The gin brings a subtle earthiness, balancing the floral notes. The soda water adds a refreshing fizz that lightens the drink. The garnish not only adds to the aesthetic but also elevates the aroma, providing a complete sensory experience.
Similar Cocktails
The Lavender Collins is a twist on the traditional Tom Collins. Other similar cocktails include:
- Tom Collins: Featuring gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda.
- French 75: Combining gin, lemon juice, champagne, and sugar.
- Aviation Cocktail: Mixing gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice, offering a floral profile with different herbal notes.
Each variation provides a unique taste experience while maintaining some classic elements.
History
The Lavender Collins is inspired by the Tom Collins cocktail. Originating in the late 19th century, the Tom Collins became famous after the popularity of a practical joke in New York City. The addition of lavender syrup is a modern twist, adding a unique floral flavor that aligns with contemporary preferences for botanical cocktails without straying too far from its roots.
Quick Pro Tips
Mastering the Lavender Collins involves a few expert tips:
- Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the best taste.
- For stronger flavors, adjust the ratios of lavender syrup or lemon juice.
- Chill the glass beforehand to maintain the drink’s refreshing quality.
- Experiment with lavender syrup: A homemade version allows you to control sweetness and flavor intensity.
When to Serve
The Lavender Collins suits various occasions due to its refreshing and light nature. Serve it at summer parties or afternoon gatherings for a sophisticated touch. It’s also ideal as a welcome drink due to its balanced flavors and crowd-pleasing appeal. Its aromatic qualities make it a versatile choice, acceptable before or during a meal, when you’re looking for something both unique and refreshing.
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