Sampling three drinks full of flower power to get you in the Spring spirit(s)
We all know the saying: April showers bring May flowers. But what is to come of these May flowers? Well, in this case, it’s got a little something to do with alcohol. As we approach May, we are all craving the warm, inviting weather which April promised but didn’t deliver. As we warm up and the seasons change, the drinks begin to change, too. Winter to spring, eggnog to elderberry.
Rosey Posey: What’s more classic than a rose? Roses are used in everything from perfumes to teas, puddings, and body oils. But what about alcohol? Surprisingly, there are numerous drinks involving rose oil, rose petals, and even rose syrup. If the look and smell of a rose is enticing to you, wait till you get a taste.
- 1/3 oz. rose syrup
- 1/3 oz. pomegranate syrup
- 1 1/3 oz. vodka
- 1 oz. cranberry juice
- 3 fresh strawberries
- Red rose
Mix strawberries and liquids in a shaker tin. Fill shaker with ice cubes, and shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a rose.
Elderflower Spritz: Elderflower is from the Elder plant and is known first for its warm, sweet floral flavor followed by its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used for colds and flus and boosts the immune system. This drink is tasty and easy to make—the perfect combination. Whether you’re having a party or a light dinner at home, this is the perfect companion for any occasion.
- 1 oz. St. Germain elderflower liqueur
- 4 oz. apple juice
- club soda
- apple slice, for garnish
Pour one ounce of St-Germain into a wine glass or Champagne flute. Add four ounces of pure apple juice. If you’re looking something a little stronger, add an ounce of anything clear you can get your hands on—vodka to let the elderflower flavor shine, white rum for a little more body, or gin to throw in something enticing and herbal. Top with club soda and garnish with an apple slice.
Lilac Soda: Up next, we’ve got something a little different for you to sip on. When you think of lilac and soft drinks, you probably don’t put the two together and you probably don’t think there would be a third main ingredient involved.
We’ve got a surprise for you. Instead of one of those syrupy, sugar-filled, artificial colored soft drinks, we’d like to recommend something lighter, more refreshing, and with flavors that will soothe the soul. Oh, and did we mention there’s rum?
- 1 oz light rum
- 1/2 oz Creme de Violette
- 1/2 oz lilac simple syrup
- 1/2 lime
- 1/2 cup soda water
Mix the rum, Creme de Violette, lilac simple syrup, and lime in a glass. Add the ice and soda water. Stir to mix.
With flowers in full bloom, now is the time to appreciate them in every form: look, smell, and especially taste. Raise a toast to spring and flowers in a form that won’t make you sneeze.