Guide to Flower Varieties that Make Great Garnishes for Cocktails
Flower garnishes can elevate cocktails, adding both visual appeal and unique flavours. Here are some popular varieties that can enhance your drink experience:
1. Edible Roses
Varieties: Select from traditional red, pink, or yellow.
Flavour: Mildly sweet with a hint of fruitiness.
Usage: Petals can be used whole or as a float in drinks like Prosecco or cocktails with gin.
2. Violets
Varieties: Common garden violets or more exotic varieties.
Flavour: Subtle sweetness and a unique floral note.
Usage: Ideal for delicate cocktails, adding a charming touch to gin or vodka-based drinks.
3. Hibiscus
Varieties: Dried hibiscus petals or fresh blossoms.
Flavour: Tart and fruity, reminiscent of cranberry.
Usage: Excellent in cocktails like margaritas or rum drinks; infuse in syrups for added colour.
4. Lavender
Varieties: English lavender is the most common.
Flavour: Floral and slightly herbaceous with a soothing aroma.
Usage: Perfect for gin-based cocktails; floats or shreds on top of a drink to release fragrance.
5. Chamomile
Varieties: German and Roman chamomile.
Flavour: Sweet, apple-like flavour and calming properties.
Usage: Use chamomile flowers in infusions for cocktails or as a garnish in herbal drinks.
6. Borage
Varieties: A star-shaped blue flower.
Flavour: Mild cucumber-like taste.
Usage: Often used in gin cocktails, it adds a whimsical touch.
7. Nasturtium
Varieties: Common and trailing types.
Flavour: Peppery, similar to arugula or watercress.
Usage: Brightly coloured flowers can be used whole to liven up almost any drink.
8. Calendula (Pot Marigold)
Varieties: Bright orange to deep yellow.
Flavour: Mild and slightly peppery.
Usage: Excellent for vibrant garnishes and can be used in herbal cocktails for added colour.
9. Elderflower
Varieties: Elderflower blossoms in various shades of cream or white.
Flavour: Sweet with hints of pear and lychee.
Usage: Perfect in spritzers or cocktails with prosecco; can be used as a garnish or infusion.
10. Jasmine
Varieties: Common jasmine and sweet jasmine.
Flavour: Intricate and sweet.
Usage: Ideal for dessert cocktails; can be used as a subtle garnish to hint at the drink’s profile.
Tips for Using Edible Flowers:
Source Organic: Always ensure flowers are grown for edible use without pesticides.
Use Fresh: Fresh flowers have the best flavour and appearance; ensure they are clean before use.
Experiment: Mix and match to find combinations that complement your cocktails.
Incorporating these flower varieties into your cocktails not only enhances the presentation but also introduces new flavour dimensions to your drinks. Enjoy experimenting with these botanicals and impress your guests with their delightful aesthetics.
