Botanical Blush

The Botanical Blush offers a refreshing take on a classic gin drink, combining the bright citrus flavors of blood orange and lime with the delicate floral notes of elderflower liqueur. A splash of ginger ale adds a crisp, bubbly finish, enhancing the cocktail’s smooth yet tangy profile.

This well-balanced drink is both elegant and refreshing, making it a great choice for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. Garnish with a blood orange slice or a sprig of fresh herbs for an extra touch of sophistication. Try this Botanical Blush cocktail at your next gathering for a flavorful, citrus-forward experience.

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Tasting Notes

This Botanical Blush is a refreshing fusion of citrus, floral, and spice. The botanical gin provides a crisp and aromatic base, while St. Germain elderflower liqueur adds a delicate, floral sweetness. Blood orange juice introduces a vibrant, tangy depth, beautifully balanced by the zesty brightness of lime juice.

The final touch of ginger ale infuses a gentle effervescence and a hint of spice, making each sip lively and invigorating. The result is a well-rounded, smooth cocktail with a light, refreshing finish.

Equipment and Glassware

To make this Botanical Blush, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to properly mix and chill the ingredients, a jigger for precise measurements, and a strainer to ensure a smooth pour. A highball or rocks glass is ideal for serving, allowing the ginger ale to maintain its crisp carbonation. A citrus juicer will also come in handy for squeezing fresh blood orange and lime juice, maximizing the drink’s vibrant flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 oz gin
• 3/4 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 2.5 oz ginger ale chilled
• 1 oz blood orange juice

Instructions

• Serve immediately and enjoy.
• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the gin, St. Germain, lime juice, and blood orange juice to the shaker.
• Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
• Top with the chilled ginger ale.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a slice of blood orange or a lime wheel, if desired.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh blood orange juice for the best flavor—bottled juice can lack the same intensity.
• Choose a high-quality gin with floral or citrus-forward notes to complement the elderflower liqueur.
• Shake the cocktail vigorously to ensure the flavors meld perfectly before adding the ginger ale.
• Serve in a chilled glass to maintain the drink’s refreshing coolness.
• For a festive touch, add a sugar or salt rim to enhance the citrus elements.

When to Serve

This Botanical Blush is perfect for any occasion that calls for something light and elegant. The refreshing floral and citrus notes make it ideal for spring and summer gatherings, brunches, or garden parties.

Its smooth and balanced flavor also makes it a great choice for holiday celebrations, cocktail hours, or a sophisticated pre-dinner aperitif. Whether you’re enjoying a warm afternoon or an intimate evening with friends, this cocktail is always a showstopper.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For the gin, a bright, citrusy option like Hendrick’s, Bombay Sapphire, or Tanqueray No. Ten works well. St. Germain is the gold standard for elderflower liqueur, offering a beautifully balanced floral sweetness. When selecting ginger ale, brands like Fever-Tree or Q Ginger Ale provide a crisp, natural ginger kick that complements the citrus and floral notes. For an extra-fresh taste, always opt for freshly squeezed blood orange and lime juice over store-bought versions.

Similar Cocktails

• Blood Orange Cosmopolitan
• Blood Orange Gin and Tonic
• Sparkling Blood Orange Margarita
• Blood Orange Gimlet
• Aperol Blood Orange Gin Mule