Dark Cottagecore Cocktails

These cocktails draw inspiration from traditional herbology and vintage glassware, reimagined through a contemporary lens. Each recipe balances classical botanicals with modern techniques, creating sophisticated drinks that honor both heritage and innovation. Perfect for an autumn evening soirée, a gothic garden wedding, or an intimate gathering where classic elegance meets dark romance. This article has been updated since it was published on Feb 2023.

Here are some things to keep in mind for technique as you make your cocktail:

• All recipes serve one cocktail

• Use fresh citrus juice only

• Herb-infused syrups should steep for 24 hours

• Glassware should be chilled

• Double straining ensures a silky texture

• Large, clear ice is recommended for rocks glasses

The Black Rose

A deep crimson cocktail highlighting blackberry's natural depth, double strained into a chilled Vintage Nick & Nora glass or antique crystal 5.5oz coupe. Choose crystal with etched details for added elegance. Garnish with one perfect blackberry and/or black rose.

Recipe

1. 2 oz gin

2. 1 oz crème de mûre

3. ½ oz elderflower liqueur

4. ½ oz fresh lemon juice

5. Fresh blackberries, for garnish

6. Freshly cut black rose, for garnish

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The Verdant Hour

A vibrant green cocktail showcasing fresh herbs and botanical gin, double strained over a large ice cube in a 10oz textured rocks glass. The heavy texture enhances the botanical presentation. Garnish with fresh herb bouquet.

Recipe

1. 2 oz London dry gin

2. ¾ oz green chartreuse

3. ½ oz fresh lime juice

4. ¼ oz honey syrup

5. Fresh thyme and rosemary, for garnish

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The Midnight Garden

A deep violet cocktail showcasing butterfly pea flower tea, double strained into a chilled 6oz crystal coupe with wide rim. The drink transforms from deep blue to violet as citrus meets the infused gin.

Recipe

1. 2 oz butterfly pea flower-infused gin

2. ¾ oz violet liqueur

3. ½ oz fresh lemon juice

4. ¼ oz simple syrup

5. Dried butterfly pea flowers, for garnish

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The Evening Shade

A silky cocktail balancing vanilla and dark berries, double strained into a chilled 4.5oz etched Nick & Nora glass. The smaller glass maintains the ideal temperature for this creamy drink.

Recipe

1. 2 oz vanilla-infused vodka

2. ¾ oz blackcurrant liqueur

3. ½ oz cream

4. ¼ oz simple syrup

5. Dried culinary lavender, for garnish

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The Herbalist

A bright, herbaceous cocktail with subtle earthiness, served in a 12oz crystal highball. The tall, slim silhouette showcases the fresh mint bouquet garnish.

Recipe

1. 2 oz vodka

2. 1 oz cucumber juice

3. ½ oz fresh lemon juice

4. ¼ oz herb-infused simple syrup

5. Fresh mint bouquet, for garnish

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The Moonlit Path

A sophisticated take on the French 75, served in a 6oz vintage champagne flute with point etching pattern. The delicate glass highlights the drink's effervescence.

Recipe

1. 1 oz gin

2. ½ oz lavender liqueur

3. ¼ oz fresh lemon juice

4. Champagne to top

5. Dried lavender sprig, for garnish

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The Velvet Hour

A rich, layered cocktail showcasing aged spirits, served in a 9oz smoked rocks glass. Double old-fashioned style preferred for proper dilution.

Recipe

1. 2 oz aged rum

2. ¾ oz blackberry liqueur

3. ½ oz sweet vermouth

4. 2 dashes aromatic bitters

5. Orange peel, for garnish

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The Conservatory

A bright, botanical forward cocktail served in a 7oz decorative coupe with art deco patterns. The vintage-inspired glass complements the drink's elegant presentation.

Recipe

1. 2 oz gin

2. ¾ oz St. Germain

3. ½ oz fresh lime juice

4. ¼ oz basil simple syrup

5. Fresh basil leaf, for garnish

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The Jade Garden

A vibrant green cocktail highlighting ceremonial matcha, served in a 5oz shallow ceramic cup or vintage tea cup. Choose matte finish over glossy for traditional aesthetic.

Recipe

1. 2 oz Japanese gin

2. ¾ oz matcha liqueur

3. ½ oz fresh lemon juice

4. ¼ oz honey syrup

5. Ceremonial grade matcha powder, for garnish

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The Twilight Hour

A sophisticated play on the classic margarita, served in a 5.5oz coupe with black salt rim. Clean lines showcase the drink's color transition.

Recipe

1. 2 oz reposado tequila

2. ¾ oz blue curaçao

3. ½ oz lime juice

4. ¼ oz lavender syrup

5. Black salt rim