A fragrant fusion of citrus and herbs, this gin cocktail captures the brightness of winter sun and the warmth of rosemary. Crisp, aromatic, and effortlessly elegant — the perfect seasonal pour.
Citrus Rosemary Gin Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz London Dry Gin
- ½ oz fresh lemon Juice
- ¾ oz fresh orange juice
- ½ oz rosemary simple syrup (see below)
- 2 dashes orange bitters el
- Garnish: rosemary sprig + dehydrated orange whe
Rosemary Simple Syrup:
- Combine ½ cup sugar, ½ cup water, and 2 sprigs of rosemary. Bring to a simmer, remove from heat, steep for 30 seconds, and strain.
Instructions
Nutrition
Why this works
The gin’s juniper and herbal backbone pairs naturally with rosemary’s resinous aroma, while the citrus duo delivers acid structure and lift. The brief 30-second steep extracts bright piney character without tipping into bitterness, keeping the botanicals in balance.
Top Tiipple: The secret is a rosemary sprig steeped for 30 seconds — you’ll taste it.
Variations
- Lemon Rosemary Fizz: Build over ice in a highball and top with 2–3 oz club soda for a lighter, spritz-style serve.
- Grapefruit Edition: Swap orange juice for pink grapefruit to introduce a pleasing bittersweet edge.
- Honeyed Winter Twist: Replace simple syrup with 1:1 honey syrup for rounder body and gentle florals.
- Smoked Garnish: Briefly flame the rosemary garnish; express the smoke over the glass, then serve.
Pro tips
- Use freshly squeezed citrus — bottled juice dulls brightness and aroma.
- Chill glassware to keep dilution in check and texture silky.
- For a bolder herb note, extend the syrup steep by 10–15 seconds (avoid longer to prevent bitterness).
- Pair with citrus-cured salmon or a soft, herbed goat cheese for an elegant aperitif moment.
FAQ
Can I use lemon instead of orange?
Yes, but the drink will be sharper. Add an extra ¼ oz syrup to maintain balance.
Can I make it alcohol-free?
Use a quality zero-proof gin or combine tonic water with rosemary syrup plus the citrus juices.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes. Multiply by six in a pitcher, chill, then add ice and garnish just before serving.
How long does rosemary syrup last?
Up to 2 weeks refrigerated in a clean, sealed bottle.
It’s too sweet for my taste. I made the simple syrup exactly as prescribed in the recipe, and the rosemary flavor doesn’t really come through. Also I don’t get any gin flavor through the sugar.
Thanks! I realized I left made a mistake and put it simple syrup as well as the rosemary syrup! I fixed it. I don’t steep too long as I find the rosemary can get overwhelming., but maybe do it slightly longer.