When I’m craving something fresh but don’t want to fuss, I almost always reach for a Collins. There’s just something about the mix of fruit, herbs, and bubbles that makes it easy to enjoy, no matter my mood.
A Strawberry Lavender Collins brings together sweet berries and a hint of floral for a light, refreshing drink you can actually make at home.
I love this recipe because it’s just everyday steps, but the lavender twist makes it feel a little special. No need for fancy tools.
The flavors balance out so nicely. It’s perfect for a warm afternoon or when friends drop by.
You’ll find the steps and ingredients are pretty straightforward. I’ll also try to describe exactly how it tastes once you’ve got it in your glass—because, honestly, that’s what matters most.
Strawberry Lavender Collins Cocktail Recipe
This drink really nails the freshness of strawberries with a gentle lavender note. Gin, lemon juice, and sparkling water keep it crisp, while the strawberry syrup brings just enough sweetness.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker – I grab this to mix everything up fast.
- Muddler – I use it to press the strawberries and get all that juice out.
- Strainer – It lets me pour a smooth drink, no pulp.
- Jigger – I use this to measure gin, lemon, and syrup, so nothing goes overboard.
- Bar spoon – I stir gently when I add the soda water.
- Collins glass or highball glass – I always pour into one of these tall glasses.
- Ice cubes – Fresh, solid ice makes the difference for chill and texture.
Having the right tools just makes things easier—and honestly, the drink turns out better.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz strawberry syrup or strawberry puree
- 0.5 oz lavender simple syrup (optional, but I recommend it)
- 2-3 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3-4 oz soda water, sparkling water, or club soda
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: lemon wheel, lemon slice, or strawberry slice
I always go for fresh lemon juice—it’s just brighter. If I want more strawberry flavor, I’ll use both puree and muddled berries with syrup.
The garnish isn’t just for looks; it gives a little extra aroma too.
Instructions
- Add the sliced strawberries to your cocktail shaker and muddle until juicy.
- Pour in gin, lemon juice, strawberry syrup, and lavender syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake for about 15 seconds.
- Strain everything into a Collins glass packed with ice.
- Top with soda water, sparkling water, or club soda.
- Stir gently with your bar spoon to mix.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or strawberry slice before you serve.
I like to taste before topping with soda water, just to check the sweetness or tartness. Shaking with ice chills everything fast and brings the flavors together.
Notes
If I use strawberry juice or puree, the drink gets a bolder color, while syrup makes it smoother. Sometimes I add more soda water for a lighter taste.
When I want the gin to shine, I cut back on the syrup a bit.
A Collins should always feel crisp and refreshing, and this strawberry lavender twist keeps that vibe but adds a fruity, floral edge. If I want a softer fizz, I swap soda water for sparkling.
Fresh fruit really makes the cocktail pop. And using a lemon slice or wheel for garnish? It looks great and gives a nice citrus aroma with every sip.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz strawberry syrup or strawberry puree
- 0.5 oz lavender simple syrup optional, but recommended
- 3 fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 4 oz soda water or sparkling water or club soda
- ice cubes
- lemon wheel or strawberry slice for garnish
Instructions
- Add the sliced strawberries to your cocktail shaker and muddle until juicy.
- Pour in gin, lemon juice, strawberry syrup, and lavender syrup.
- Strain into a Collins glass packed with ice.
- Top with soda water, sparkling water, or club soda.
- Stir gently with your bar spoon to mix.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or strawberry slice before serving.
Notes
Tasting Notes
Right away, the first sip feels light and refreshing—honestly, it’s just what I want in a summer cocktail. The strawberry brings a gentle sweetness that doesn’t take over, and it tastes fresh, almost like biting into ripe fruit.
Lavender comes through with this soft floral note. I notice it lingers on my tongue, giving the drink a calm, balanced finish. It’s never soapy or heavy, just smooth and subtle, which is a relief because sometimes floral stuff can be too much.
Lemon juice adds a crisp edge. I really like how it slices through the sweetness and keeps everything bright. The soda water bubbles make it feel lively and super easy to drink.
Flavor Highlights:
- Sweetness: Fresh strawberry with mild sugar notes
- Citrus: Tart lemon for balance
- Floral: Light lavender aroma in the background
- Texture: Effervescent and smooth
When I drink it chilled, the refreshing effect is at its best. The flavors stay clean and clear, and I find myself wanting to sip slowly just to enjoy that balance.
