Luck of the Iris Cocktail: A Unique Gin and Lime Cordial Recipe
Sep 15, 2025
Hail Iris! If you're looking for a floral and vibrant drink, the Luck of the Iris cocktail is a perfect choice. This recipe is a truly unique creation featuring a perfect balance of botanicals from Empress Gin and the zesty tang of a gin and lime cordial. It's a sophisticated, refreshing drink that honors the magical spirit of Mardi Gras. Cheers to the ladies of @kreweofiris for making Mardi Gras magic possible every year!
Luck of the Iris Gin and Lime Cordial Recipe
This cocktail is a masterpiece of flavors. The bright notes of lemon, the delicate sweetness of Crème de Violette, and the crisp brut rosé all come together to create a stunning, layered drink. The key is to float the Empress Gin at the end for an amazing visual effect and a fragrant aroma with every sip.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Empress Gin
- .5 oz Crème de Violette
- .5 oz El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial
- 2 oz Brut Rosé
- 1 oz Soda Water
- Mint & Brûléed Lemon Wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing glass, combine the Crème de Violette and El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial.
- Add ice and stir the mixture until well chilled.
- Add the soda water to the mixing glass.
- Strain the cocktail into a glass full of fresh ice.
- Add the chilled Brut Rosé to the glass.
- Gently top with a float of Empress Gin for the color effect.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a brûléed lemon wedge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a gin and lime cordial?
A gin and lime cordial is a drink that uses gin as its base spirit, with the primary mixer being a lime cordial. A cordial is a non-alcoholic syrup, in this case with a vibrant lime flavor. When paired with gin, it creates a balanced, tangy, and refreshing cocktail.
What is the flavor of the Luck of the Iris cocktail?
The Luck of the Iris cocktail has a complex flavor profile that is floral, citrusy, and bubbly. It starts with the botanical notes of Empress Gin and is sweetened with the floral Crème de Violette. The tartness from the El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial and the effervescence of the brut rosé and soda water make it an incredibly refreshing and balanced drink.
What is the purpose of the El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial?
The El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial acts as the primary sweetening and citrus agent in the cocktail. It provides a more concentrated and complex lemon flavor than fresh lemon juice alone, ensuring a consistent taste and adding depth to the drink.
Can I substitute the Empress Gin?
Yes, you can substitute the Empress Gin with another high-quality gin. However, the unique deep purple color of Empress Gin is what creates the beautiful visual layer in this cocktail. Using a different gin will change the color of the final drink, but the flavor will remain delicious.