10 Rose-Based Cocktails And Mocktails For Summer Gatherings

One of the more luxurious and fragrant ingredients incorporated in mixology is a stellar red rose. The flower has a distinctly sweet aroma and an equally interesting taste which has made it a sought after ingredient among mixologists. This floral element imbues its deep colour and crisp and fragrant taste into many summer drinks and is often incorporated in different ways in cocktails and mocktails prepared during this season.   

From a gulkand lassi to a rose-infused old fashioned, a number of different blends can be prepared by adding rose syrup, rose water, dried rose petals or rose crush into recipes. Read on below to know more about some of the cocktails and mocktails that can be crafted using this versatile floral element, come summer: 

Rosy Old Fashioned  

A floral twist on the classic recipe, the rosy old fashioned can be crafted by bringing together an aromatic rose syrup with 30 ml quality bourbon or even Scotch whisky such as a Johnnie Walker Black Label or any other premium whisky of choice. Garnish with rose petals and a citrus peel for an aromatic and sour garnish combination.  

Spiced Rose Margarita  

Prepare a classic margarita using 30 ml Don Julio Blanco or any other premium tequila of choice and add a touch of red chilli powder for a spicy taste. Into this mix blend the contrasting floral flavours of one tablespoon rose syrup to create a complex summer drink full of aromatic, sweet and spicy notes.  

Rose And Hibiscus Gin Fizz   

A crisp sparkler crafted using 30 ml Tanqueray No. 10 Gin or any other premium gin of choice, this rose and hibiscus gin fizz contains the floral touch of rose syrup and hibiscus petals which gives it an aromatic finish. Prepare this floral cocktail for a brunch hosted during summer.  

Rose-Lychee Martini Cocktail  

A drink which brings forth the summer flavours of rose syrup and the fruity notes of lychee juice, this martini cocktail can be prepared with the addition of 30 ml Ciroc Ultra Premium Vodka or any other premium vodka of choice. Garnish with a lychee and rose petals for a fragrant touch.  

Rose And Paan Collins  

Bring forth the aroma and sharp taste of paan, or betel leaf in this twist on the classic cocktail that blends rose syrup with 30 ml Gordon’s Original London Dry Gin or any other premium gin of choice. Infuse the spirit itself with paan leaves to make their peppery flavours more pronounced.  

Rose And Pomegranate Sparkler  

Combine pomegranate juice and rose water in a sparkler built by topping off these floral and fruity ingredients with fizzy, sparkling water. Garnish the drink with pomegranate pods to introduce more acidity into the non-alcoholic blend. 

Gulab Sherbet  

A classic summertime drink prepared often across the Indian subcontinent, a cool gulab sherbat can be made by bringing together crushed rose syrup with chilled water. Garnish this drink with a lime wedge to introduce a tangy touch into the sweet and aromatic blend.  

Rose And Lemon Fizz  

Another way to bring together rose flavours with the citrus notes of lime or lemon is to craft a classic sparkling fizz out of crushed rose petals and lime juice. This mix can be finished off with tonic water and served as a welcome drink at a summertime lunch.  

Gulkand Lassi  

A sweet and creamy drink generally served following a hearty meal, the gulkand lassi is prepared by blending fresh buttermilk with a crushed rose and sugar mix. The lassi is complete with a light, pinkish hue and velvety texture which acquires a luxurious look with the addition of a rose petal garnish.  

Iced Rose Chai Latte  

An interesting mocktail that can be prepared using a rosewater infusion during summers is the rose chai latte. This drink comprises freshly made iced milk tea finished off with rosewater and a dried rose petal garnish. Sometimes, cinnamon powder can also be drizzled on top of this drink for a spicy, earthy touch.  

Also Read: Watermelon-Infused Ice: Elevating Cocktails And Mocktails With Frozen Flavour