To me, a Lavender Gin Collins is about as floral and refreshing as a cocktail gets. It’s perfect for a sunny afternoon or a chill evening with friends.
Cocktail shaker: Good for mixing everything together smoothly.
Jigger: I need this for measuring out the right amounts.
Strainer: Helps keep the ice and any solids out of the glass.
Bar spoon: Handy for stirring and layering, if I’m feeling fancy.
Collins glass: Tall, classic, and it just looks right.
Fine mesh sieve: Sometimes I’ll use this if I want the drink extra clear—especially if I’ve gone heavy on the lavender.
Ice cubes: Always have more than you think you’ll need.
Measuring spoons: Useful if I’m making my own syrup at home.
Ingredients
2ozginLondon Dry is my go-to, but use what you like
1ozfresh lemon juiceI always squeeze it myself—worth it
3/4ozlavender simple syruphomemade or store-bought, no judgment
2-3ozclub sodacold is best for that refreshing fizz
Ice cubesfor both shaking and serving
Lemon wheelmakes a nice garnish
Fresh or dried lavender sprigtotally optional, but pretty
Instructions
Pour gin, lemon juice, and lavender syrup into your shaker.
Add ice and shake for about 10 seconds—just enough to mix and chill.
Strain everything into a Collins glass packed with fresh ice.
Top off with club soda, but pour gently so you don’t lose all that fizz.
Give it a soft stir with a bar spoon—just a couple turns so the bubbles stick around.
Garnish with a lemon wheel, and if I’m feeling extra, a lavender sprig for that scent.
Serve it right away. It’s best cold and fresh.
Notes
If you’re sensitive to floral flavors, maybe start with less lavender syrup and add more if you want. The syrup can be strong, so taste as you go.Dry gin keeps things crisp and stops the drink from getting too sweet. Homemade lavender syrup keeps in the fridge about a week, in my experience.If I run out of club soda, sparkling water does the trick. I try not to go overboard with soda, or the flavors get lost. Drink it soon after mixing—the fizz and freshness don’t last forever.For garnish, I stick to culinary lavender only. Some types aren’t meant for food or drinks. If I want it sweeter, I just add a little more syrup, but I always try it first before going overboard.