I love experimenting with classic cocktails, and lately, the Lavender Old Fashioned has been a go-to. This drink pairs the smoothness of whiskey with just a hint of floral lavender, making it unique and honestly, pretty easy to like.
It’s a simple way to give an old favorite a modern spin. When I make one, the lavender aroma hits first—fresh, noticeable, but never overwhelming.
Whether it’s just for me or a group of friends, this recipe always seems to get compliments. People notice the balance and that calming scent right away.
Lavender Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing glass: Good for combining everything together.
- Bar spoon: Makes stirring way easier.
- Jigger: For measuring the whiskey and syrup without guessing.
- Rocks glass: The classic vessel for this cocktail.
- Fine mesh strainer (optional): Sometimes handy for catching bits from the peel or ice.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1/4 oz lavender simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters optional for extra flavor
- Ice cubes—enough for the glass and for stirring
- Orange or lemon peel for garnish
- Edible lavender sprig for garnish optional
Instructions
- Pour whiskey, lavender syrup, and bitters into a mixing glass.
- Add a bunch of ice.
- Stir for about 20 seconds, just until it’s nicely chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a big ice cube (or a few smaller ones if that’s what you have).
- Garnish with a twist of orange or lemon peel. Hold it over the glass, give it a quick squeeze to release the oils, and drop it in.
- If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add an edible lavender sprig on top.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The first thing I notice is the gentle floral aroma—lavender, but not in-your-face. It’s light, kind of inviting, honestly.
The sip starts with smooth bourbon and just enough sweetness. Lavender syrup gives a soft floral flavor that blends in, not overpowering at all.
There’s a little orange from the bitters, too. That touch of brightness keeps the drink from feeling heavy.
For me, the cocktail comes across as balanced—not too sweet, not too bitter. The finish is smooth, with a gentle herbal note from the lavender.
I like that the lavender makes it stand out from a standard Old Fashioned, but it still feels classic. The flavors are mellow and easy to enjoy, which is kind of the point, right?
Substitute
If I don’t have lavender syrup, I try a few easy swaps to keep the drink tasting good.
There are a handful of options that work well, honestly.
Equipment
Ingredients
- Rosemary syrup
- Simple syrup with a drop of lavender extract
- Honey syrup with a little dried lavender
- Chamomile syrup
Instructions
- Mix your chosen syrup just like you would with lavender syrup. No need to overthink it.
- If you’re using dried herbs or extracts, definitely strain before adding to the drink.
- Taste as you go. Some flavors might be a bit punchier than lavender, so adjust as needed.
