It isn’t uncommon to order a drink garnished with rosemary (think of a martini or mojito), most take out the leafy sprig and set it aside as they sip on their drink. Rosemary may not be what you think of as a flavor profile when going for a cocktail as it’s mostly used in savory dishes, perfumes, and even soaps. Rosemary is a complex flavor with hints of citrus, mint, and sage, all in one for an earthy and woodsy taste which is perfect for the fall season. The herb is an evergreen native to the Mediterranean region, similar to thyme, oregano, basil, marjoram, and lavender. It’s best paired with oranges, clementines, lemons, and grapefruit to bring out those aromatic undertones or also infuse it with cranberries, and blackberries. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing pick-me-up throughout your day or a cozy wind-down to warm up your evening, rosemary is a go-to when spicing up your drinks. Here are some easy cocktails with rosemary you can make at home.
Apple Cider Mimosas
Start your rosemary journey with this apple cider mimosa recipe from @ashlynchampgatlin on Tiktok — it’ll become an all-year drink favorite. Mimosas are always a great way to kick off any social gathering. With a sugar cinnamon rim, apple cider, and your favorite champagne, garnish your drinks with cranberries and sugar-coated rosemary sprig.
Pomegranate Palomas
Another great cocktail to easily incorporate rosemary is this fall paloma recipe by @maryswholelife featured on @cocktails. All you need is honey, tequila, lime juice, and pomegranate juice. Then, add a salt or sugar rim and top it off with a rosemary garnish and pomegranate seeds.
Honey Rosemary Gimlet
The rosemary is really present here, both in a simple syrup, as well a garnish. On TikTok, @tessatrox brings honey, water, and rosemary to a simmer, then combines this with lime juice. She uses two ounces of Hendricks Gin, but you can also use Beefeater or Plymouth as an alternative.
Rosemary Negroni
For my mixologists, this drink smokes rosemary into the cocktail capturing all the complexity it has to offer by @join_jules. This drink is made with Bertha’s Revenge and Campari, lemon and juice, and an egg white. Add to a drink, a simple rosemary syrup and garnish with rosemary.
Freezer Door Old Fashioned
Who doesn’t love a good old fashioned? For my bourbon lovers, this is for you. Set the mood with this recipe by @join_jules. Using rosemary, cinnamon, and orange zest, with 16 ounces of bourbon, three ounces of honey, three ounces of water, and orange and Angostura bitters, this cocktail is then chilled for you to enjoy throughout the day.
Grapefruit Rosemary Mocktail
If you’re into spritzers, @happyhour.abby’s drink is bright and fizzy, with a lovely hint of sour making for a great palette cleanser. The rosemary ice cubes are a subtle way to infuse flavor into the drink without the fear of overpowering it.
Cranberry Peach Sunrise
This mocktail by @kristecafe is simple and easy. Plus, it only requires four ingredients: peach juice, cranberry juice, ice, and rosemary. Blend it for a fun twist and try it frozen.