Paul Kushner
Light, crisp, and floral, the Cucumber and Rose Collins pairs the garden-fresh coolness of cucumber with the soft sweetness of rose. Brightened with lemon and grounded by gin, it’s an elegant and refreshing choice for spring brunches or late summer afternoons.
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Tasting Notes
The Cucumber and Rose Collins is crisp, floral, and citrusy. It begins with the cool, mellow taste of fresh cucumber juice, followed by the gentle tang of lemon. Rose syrup adds a sweet, perfumed note that complements the botanicals in the gin. Each sip is smooth and light, with just enough acidity to keep it refreshing. The cucumber slice garnish enhances the fresh aroma, and the overall flavor is clean without being too sharp. This drink works well for those who prefer soft, garden-inspired cocktails that are easy to enjoy, especially in warmer weather or relaxed settings.
Equipment and Glassware
To make the Cucumber and Rose Collins, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for proper mixing and chilling. A jigger will help with accurate measurements of your ingredients. A citrus juicer is helpful for squeezing fresh lemon juice. After shaking, strain the drink using a Hawthorne strainer into a Collins glass, which is tall and ideal for ice-filled cocktails. Use a bar knife to slice cucumber for the garnish. Keep a fine mesh strainer nearby if you prefer an extra-smooth pour. Fresh ice is important, as it keeps the drink cold while preserving its delicate flavors.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 1.5 oz cucumber juice
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz rose syrup
- Cucumber slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice, then add the gin, cucumber juice, lemon juice, and rose syrup.
- Shake vigorously until chilled.
- Strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a cucumber slice.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly blended and strained cucumber juice for a cleaner flavor
- Chill your Collins glass in advance for a colder drink
- A floral gin will match the rose syrup best
- Adjust lemon juice if you prefer more or less tartness
- Try a long cucumber ribbon instead of a slice for garnish
- Use edible rose petals as an alternative garnish
- Strain the cocktail twice if you want a smoother finish
- Add a splash of soda water for a lighter version
When to Serve
This Cucumber and Rose Collins fits perfectly into spring and summer occasions. Its cooling and floral profile makes it ideal for warm afternoons, garden parties, or outdoor brunches. It’s a natural fit for baby showers, bridal showers, or cocktail hours with a relaxed atmosphere. Its fresh and slightly floral notes also work well for evening sipping when you want something gentle and not too boozy. Serve it as a welcome drink at gatherings or keep it in rotation as a light option on your home cocktail list.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Gin
- Hendrick’s – pairs naturally with cucumber
- The Botanist – herbal and well-balanced
- Bombay Sapphire – reliable and smooth
- Rose Syrup
- Monin Rose Syrup – widely available and floral
- Giffard Rose – high-quality and aromatic
- Teisseire Rose – light and subtly sweet
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 1.5 oz cucumber juice
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz rose syrup
- Cucumber slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice, then add the gin, cucumber juice, lemon juice, and rose syrup.
- Shake vigorously until chilled.
- Strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a cucumber slice.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For best results, juice fresh cucumber using a blender and fine strainer.
- Opt for a floral-forward gin to enhance the rose aroma.
- A splash of soda water can add a subtle fizz if preferred.
