The LaverstokeCocktail recipe
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The Laverstoke is a bright, garden-leaning gin spritz that sits somewhere between a vermouth aperitif and a long, sparkling highball—built for easy sipping in a wine glass. You’ll find it wears its influences lightly: classic gin-and-vermouth structure gets stretched out with fizz, while floral and herbal accents keep it feeling modern and refreshing rather than boozy or heavy.
On the palate, gin brings crisp botanical backbone, with white vermouth adding a gentle, winey dryness that reins in sweetness. Ginger ale lifts everything with soft spice and bubbles, while elderflower cordial layers in a perfumed, honeyed-floral note that plays neatly against the vermouth’s edge. A mint leaf adds a cool, green aroma, and the lime wedges give you a fresh citrus squeeze that sharpens the finish and keeps the drink snappy.
Serve it when you want something light, sociable, and aromatic—ideal for warm afternoons, pre-dinner drinks, or any moment that calls for a spritz without the usual bitterness. If you like gin and tonics but want more floral lift and a touch of ginger sparkle, this is an easy crowd-pleaser.
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Wine glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Gin leads with crisp botanicals softened by white vermouth’s pale herbal sweetness, while ginger ale adds bright fizz and gentle spice; elderflower cordial brings floral lift, mint leaves add a cool green note, and lime wedges sharpen everything with juicy acidity. The balance works because lime and ginger keep the elderflower from turning cloying and the vermouth rounds the gin, making it ideal for spritz fans who want a refreshing, aromatic, low-effort sipper.
Method
How to make a The Laverstoke
- Gin 60ml, White vermouth 15ml, Ginger ale 75ml, Elderflower cordial 10ml, Mint leaves 1, Lime 2 wedges
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- Squeeze two freshly cut lime wedges into a clean glass and then drop them in
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- Measure and pour in the elderflower cordial, Martini Bianco and Bombay Sapphire gin into the glass over the lime
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- Swirl well to mix
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- Fill the glass completely full of cubed ice and briefly stir to chill
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- Finally, pour the ginger ale down a twisted bar spoon (into the spoon end) over the ice and gently stir the cocktail at the same time and fold to combine the liquids
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- Garnish with a sliver of freshly mandolined ginger and a large gently slapped mint sprig all grouped together on one side of the glass, and serve
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FAQ's
What is the ideal occasion for serving The Laverstoke cocktail?
The Laverstoke, with its refreshing blend of gin, ginger ale, and elderflower cordial, is perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Its light and aromatic profile makes it suitable for occasions like garden parties, weddings, or any outdoor event where a refreshing, sophisticated cocktail is desired.
Can The Laverstoke cocktail be made into a mocktail?
Yes, The Laverstoke can be adapted into a mocktail by substituting the gin and white vermouth with non-alcoholic alternatives and adjusting the elderflower cordial if necessary. Non-alcoholic gin and vermouth options are available that mirror the herbal and botanical notes of their alcoholic counterparts.
How does the alcohol content of The Laverstoke compare to that of other popular cocktails?
With an alcohol content of 16.4%, The Laverstoke is moderately strong, sitting in between lighter cocktails like the Aperol Spritz and stronger classics such as the Martini. Its alcohol content makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced cocktail that is neither too light nor overly potent.
Is The Laverstoke suitable for those who prefer less sweet cocktails?
Yes, while The Laverstoke does contain elderflower cordial, which adds a hint of sweetness, the overall balance of the cocktail with the acidity from lime wedges and the botanical notes from gin makes it appealing to those who favor a less sweet profile. Adjusting the amount of elderflower cordial can also tailor the sweetness to personal preference.
What is the significance of stirring, not shaking, The Laverstoke?
Stirring The Laverstoke, as opposed to shaking, is significant because it gently combines the ingredients without diluting the cocktail as much as shaking would. This method preserves the delicate flavors of the gin, vermouth, and elderflower cordial, ensuring a clearer and more aesthetically pleasing presentation.
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