The Butterfly Martini is a colorful and eye-catching drink with a soft, floral twist. It typically features butterfly pea flower tea or butterfly pea-infused vodka, which gives it a deep indigo hue that can shift to purple or pink when mixed with citrus like lemon or lime juice. The base spirit is often vodka or gin, paired with light flavors such as elderflower, citrus, or a touch of simple syrup. It’s smooth, lightly floral, and just tart enough to keep things balanced. Served chilled in a martini glass, it’s a fun and elegant pick for when you want something a little different but easy to enjoy.
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Tasting Notes
The Butterfly Martini is a bright, floral, and subtly sweet cocktail with a graceful, refreshing finish. Vodka provides a crisp, clean base, while white grape juice adds gentle fruitiness and a soft sweetness. Elderflower cordial infuses the drink with a delicate floral note, perfectly balanced by the sharp citrus brightness of fresh lemon juice. The result is a silky, aromatic cocktail that feels light yet layered. Garnished with a lemon twist and an edible flower, this martini is visually stunning and flavorfully uplifting—perfect for spring celebrations, elegant evenings, or anytime you want a cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Equipment and Glassware
Crafting the Butterfly Martini requires only a few simple tools. Use a jigger to accurately measure each ingredient and a cocktail shaker filled with ice to thoroughly chill and combine the flavors. A Hawthorne strainer ensures a smooth, elegant pour into your glass. Serve in a chilled martini glass or Nick and Nora glass to show off the drink’s delicate color and airy garnishes. A paring knife or citrus peeler is ideal for crafting a tight lemon twist, while edible flowers can be placed with tweezers for precision and extra flair.
Ingredients
- 1½ oz vodka
- 2 oz white grape juice
- 0.25 oz elderflower cordial
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- Garnish: lemon twist and edible flower
Instructions
- Shake: Add vodka, white grape juice, elderflower cordial, lemon juice, and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake well until chilled.
- Strain: Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish: Add a lemon twist and float an edible flower on top for a gorgeous finish.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality vodka like Tito’s Handmade, Grey Goose, or Belvedere for a smooth, clean finish.
- Choose pure white grape juice (no added sugars) to keep the drink light and fresh.
- For elderflower cordial, Belvoir Fruit Farms offers an excellent floral balance without being overly sweet.
- Always use fresh-squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor. Chill the glass beforehand to maintain the drink’s crisp texture.
- When creating the lemon twist, express the oils over the surface of the drink for added aromatic elegance.
- Edible flowers like violets, pansies, or snapdragons add the perfect final touch.
When to Serve
The Butterfly Martini is ideal for spring and summer soirées, bridal showers, elegant cocktail hours, or romantic evenings. Its floral and fruity profile makes it especially perfect for daytime events, garden parties, or sophisticated brunches. Light, aromatic, and visually stunning, this cocktail brings a sense of celebration and refinement to any occasion. Whether it’s toasting a milestone or simply savoring a sunny afternoon, the Butterfly Martini offers a delicate, delightful sip that’s sure to impress.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For the vodka, choose premium options like Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Grey Goose, or Ketel One for a smooth, neutral base.
- For elderflower cordial, Belvoir Fruit Farms Elderflower Cordial offers excellent quality and a natural floral taste.
- Use pure, unsweetened white grape juice like RW Knudsen or fresh-pressed juice for the best flavor.
- Fresh, organic lemons will provide the brightest citrus burst.
- Opt for organic edible flowers from reputable sources to ensure safety and beauty in your garnish.
Similar Cocktails
- Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini
- Apricot Lemon Drop Martini
- Diva Martini
- Firebirds Pineapple Martini
- Grapefruit Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients
- 1½ oz vodka
- 2 oz white grape juice
- 0.25 oz elderflower cordial
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- Garnish: lemon twist and edible flower
Instructions
- Shake: Add vodka, white grape juice, elderflower cordial, lemon juice, and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake well until chilled.
- Strain: Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish: Add a lemon twist and float an edible flower on top for a gorgeous finish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use fresh white grape juice for a lighter, more natural flavor.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for a smoother, crisper sip.
- Choose brightly colored edible flowers like pansies or violets for a stunning presentation.