This Gin Cosmopolitan is a gin-forward version of the classic Cosmo keeps the crisp, tart feel but swaps out vodka for something more botanical. With a mix of Cointreau, cranberry-pomegranate juice, and lime, it’s citrusy, slightly sweet, and still has that light pink color people love. Great for happy hour or when you want something simple but a little dressed up.
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Tasting Notes
The Gin Cosmopolitan is crisp, citrusy, and just a little fruity. Swapping vodka for gin gives it a cleaner, botanical edge that plays well with the tart cranberry pomegranate juice. Cointreau brings smooth orange flavor, and lime juice adds the sharp citrus bite you expect from a Cosmo. It’s slightly sweet, slightly sour, and finishes dry. The pomegranate gives it a richer color and a bit more depth than a traditional cranberry-only version. It’s refreshing, not too strong, and the kind of drink that looks polished but goes down easy.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker, jigger, citrus press, and a strainer. Shake this one with ice to chill it thoroughly and blend the citrus and juice. Use a coupe or martini glass something that shows off the drink’s deep pink color and fits the clean, polished style of the cocktail. Chill the glass beforehand to keep it cold longer. A citrus wedge or peel for garnish adds aroma and completes the look without needing anything over the top.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz Cointreau
- 1 oz cranberry-pomegranate juice
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- Add gin, Cointreau, cranberry-pomegranate juice, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill with ice and shake well until chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim.
Pro Tips
- Use a citrus-forward gin for a smoother match with the juices.
- Shake hard to blend and chill the drink evenly.
- Use 100% cranberry pomegranate juice avoid cocktail blends with added sugar.
- Chill your glass for a cleaner pour and colder finish.
- Garnish with a lime twist if you want to avoid pulp or seeds.
- Add a splash of soda water for a lighter variation.
- Adjust lime juice for more or less tartness depending on your juice blend.
When to Serve
The Gin Cosmopolitan is a great choice for cocktail hour, casual date nights, or anytime you want something light, crisp, and a little fruity. It works well as a welcome drink for guests or a brunch alternative to more common citrus-based cocktails. With its simple prep and balanced flavor, it’s easy to make in small batches too. It’s also a great warm-weather sipper refreshing without being too sweet. Whether you’re catching up with friends or kicking off the weekend, this drink feels both casual and put-together.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Gin: Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray, or Aviation Gin
- Orange Liqueur: Cointreau, Combier, or Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
- Cranberry Pomegranate Juice: Lakewood, RW Knudsen, or Ocean Spray 100% blend
- Lime Juice: Always fresh-squeezed
- Garnish: Lime wedge or twist keep it simple and fresh
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz Cointreau
- 1 oz cranberry-pomegranate juice
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Add gin, Cointreau, cranberry-pomegranate juice, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill with ice and shake well until chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
- A dry shake (without ice) before adding ice can help mix citrus and spirits more smoothly.
- If you’re using a more floral gin, keep the lime juice on the lighter side to let it shine.