Whether you are using actual flowers, flowering herbs, or flower-based liqueurs, shake Mom up a cocktail that is not only pretty to look at but also tasty to drink!

Red Ginger Martini

There are so many interesting and unique items down our produce aisles. One of the most fragrant is the bushel of dried hibiscus flowers. Try this ginger-accented martini for a refreshing and spicy drink!

1 oz. Hibiscus-Ginger Simple Syrup
1 oz. Vodka (You could use Gin, but I find the flavor is lost amongst the spice.)
Ice
2 oz. Club Soda

To make the simple syrup, cut a 2-inch piece of ginger into thin slices. Add 1 1/2 cups of water, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, 1 large handful of dried hibiscus flowers (about 7 buds), and the sliced ginger to a small saucepan. Bring to a low boil, cover, and remove from heat. Steep the infusion until cooled to room temperature. Strain out the flowers and ginger, reserving some for garnishes. Refrigerate until ready to use. Combine the Hibiscus-Ginger Syrup and vodka in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a martini glass and top with club soda. Garnish with a dried hibiscus bud.

Lavender Collins

The scent of lavender gives a sense of calm and relaxation. This spritzy cocktail is a spin on the classic Tom Collins and is just as refreshing. It is perfect for a light lunch while you sit out in the garden.

1 oz. Lavender Simple Syrup
1 oz. Meyer Lemon Juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
2 oz. Botanical Gin (Plymouth or Hendricks)
Ice
2 oz. Club Soda

To make the simple syrup, heat the 1 ¼ cups of water, 1 cup of sugar and 1 whole bunch of lavender (buds, stems, leaves and all) in a small pot on high heat. Bring to a low boil. Then cover and remove from heat. Allow the simple syrup to steep for 20 minutes. Pour through a sieve to remove the lavender. Cool in the fridge until ready to use. Fill a Collins glass with ice. Pour the simple syrup, lemon juice and gin over ice. Stir and top with club soda.

Sitting Pretty

I am always surprised when people have yet to try St. Germain Elderflower liqueur. It is lightly sweet with flavors of Lychee and Muscat grapes. My favorite St. Germain Cocktail is when it is simply mixed with Prosecco. However, this one is going to be great for relaxing in the sun!

1 ½ oz. St. Germain
1 oz. 1800 Silver Tequila
2 oz. Fresh-Squeezed Grapefruit Juice
Ice
1 oz. Club Soda

Pour all ingredients over ice into a large rocks glass and stir gently. Garnish with a sprig of flowering mint.

Whether you are celebrating Mother’s Day, spring, or the first day you can go outside without a jacket, these flowery cocktails are sure to brighten your day!

Have you ever used flowers in a cocktail? Tweet me @NinosWineExpert and let me know how it went!

Enjoy!