Lavender Earl Grey martinis are a quirky twist on the classic cocktail. They blend smooth gin with the delicate flavors of Earl Grey tea and fragrant lavender syrup.
This recipe makes a refreshing drink that always stands out at a gathering. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home.
I love serving this cocktail when I want something elegant but not fussy. It never fails to impress my friends.
Lavender and Earl Grey both have this calming vibe to them. Together, they make the martini feel a bit magical.
If you’re after a light, floral drink with a sophisticated edge, give this recipe a try. You might be surprised by how much you like it.
Lavender Earl Grey Martini Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Shaker: I use a cocktail shaker to get everything nice and cold.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: This helps keep the drink clear by catching solid bits.
- Measuring Jigger: Measuring keeps the flavors in check.
- Martini Glass: I always chill my glass ahead so the drink stays icy.
- Kettle or Small Saucepan: For brewing the Earl Grey tea, nothing fancy needed.
- Bar Spoon: I stir and layer as needed, but sometimes I just eyeball it.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka: I go for something smooth and neutral.
- 1 oz Earl Grey tea strong, cooled: Brew it ahead, let it cool off.
- 1/2 oz lavender simple syrup: Store-bought or homemade both are fine.
- 1/2 oz lemon juice freshly squeezed: Adds a punch of brightness.
- Ice: Enough to fill the shaker works.
- Garnish optional: Lemon twist or a sprig of lavender—looks great, but not a must.
Instructions
- Brew the tea: I steep Earl Grey tea for at least 5 minutes, then let it cool down.
- Chill the glass: Pop the martini glass in the freezer for a bit.
- Shake well: Shake hard—about 20 seconds does it.
- Strain: Use a fine mesh strainer and pour into your chilled martini glass.
- Garnish: Lemon twist or lavender sprig if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
Tasting Notes
First sip, and the floral aroma hits right away. Lavender gives off this gentle scent that sort of floats up before you even taste anything.
The flavor is smooth and calming. The black tea in the Earl Grey brings a classic, slightly bitter edge that balances things out.
Bergamot in the tea adds a light citrus twist. It’s subtle, but you notice it.
Here are the main flavors I pick up:
- Floral: Lavender stands out but doesn’t overpower.
- Citrus: Bergamot oil brings a zesty, fresh layer.
- Herbal: The gin’s botanicals sneak in, giving it some depth.
- Slightly Sweet: The simple syrup gives it a mellow sweetness—just enough.
The cocktail is smooth, with a clean finish. I notice the lavender flavor lingers on my tongue a few seconds after each sip.
I really like how it looks, too. That pale purple color with a delicate garnish just pops in the glass.
Substitute
If I don’t have all the exact ingredients for a Lavender Earl Grey Martini, I just use some simple substitutes. These swaps still give the drink a similar taste and aroma, honestly—sometimes I even prefer the twist.
Earl Grey Tea:
- Black tea with a splash of lemon juice or a few drops of bergamot oil
- English Breakfast tea for a milder flavor
- Simple syrup with a tiny bit of dried culinary lavender steeped in it
- Honey syrup if I want a different but floral sweetness
Gin:
- Vodka for a more neutral flavor
- A floral or citrusy liqueur mixed with vodka for extra depth
- Fresh lime juice for a brighter, sharper taste
- Bottled lemon juice if I don’t have fresh lemons, although fresh is best
When I swap ingredients, I always taste as I go. I adjust the amounts to make sure the flavors are balanced and not too strong.
If a substitute is more intense, I add less at first—better safe than sorry, right?
