Light, floral, and refreshingly crisp—the Lotus cocktail is one of those drinks that looks as good as it tastes. With just the right balance of sweet and citrusy notes, it’s perfect for warm evenings, garden parties, or anytime you’re craving something elegant but easy to sip. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Here’s how you can make your own Lotus cocktail at home, along with a few fun twists and tips.
White Lotus
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Chilled cocktail glass or coupe glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– Splash of soda water
– Edible flower or lime twist, for garnish (optional)
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail or coupe glass.
- Top with a splash of soda water for a bit of sparkle.
- Garnish with an edible flower or a twist of lime for a pretty finish.
Tips & Notes
– Make ahead: You can mix everything except the soda water ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick shake before serving and top with soda.
– Simple syrup: Make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and hot water. Let it cool before using.
– Chill your glass: Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring. It helps keep the drink cold and crisp.
– Substitutions: No elderflower liqueur? Try a splash of peach schnapps or a floral syrup like rose or lavender. Lemon juice can also stand in for lime if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
What It Tastes Like
The Lotus is light and refreshing, with a gentle floral aroma from the elderflower and a zesty kick from the lime. It’s not too sweet, thanks to the citrus, and the soda water keeps it lively without being fizzy like a soda. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels fancy without being fussy.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s simple to make but always feels like a treat.
Serving Suggestions
The Lotus pairs beautifully with:
Seafood
Think shrimp cocktail, oysters, or grilled scallops. The cocktail’s crispness complements delicate flavors without overpowering them.
Spicy Asian Dishes
Try it with Thai noodles or Korean BBQ. The clean, cooling finish helps balance out spice.
Fresh Salads
A citrusy vinaigrette or something with a bit of fruit (like mango or strawberries) echoes the cocktail’s brightness.
Variations
Rose Lotus
– Add 2–3 drops of rose water before shaking.
– Garnish with a rose petal if you’re feeling fancy.
Spicy Lotus
– Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
– Adds a subtle heat that plays well with the floral notes.
Tropical Lotus
– Swap the soda water for a splash of coconut water.
– This gives it a soft, tropical vibe—great for beachy weather.
Virgin Lotus (Non-Alcoholic)
– Replace vodka and elderflower liqueur with 2 oz (60 ml) elderflower cordial.
– Use 0.75 oz (22 ml) lime juice and 0.75 oz (22 ml) simple syrup.
– Top with soda water.
– Garnish as usual. It’s still lovely and refreshing.
Storage
If you’re batching this cocktail for a party:
– Mix vodka, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup in advance.
– Store covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– Add soda water only right before serving to keep it bubbly.
Common Questions
Can I make it less sweet?
Yes—just use a little less simple syrup or add more lime juice. Taste and adjust as you go.
Can I use regular sugar instead of simple syrup?
You can, but it won’t dissolve well in cold liquids. It’s best to make a quick simple syrup.
What’s the best season to serve this?
It’s great all year, but especially perfect in spring and summer. It also makes a pretty signature drink for weddings or showers.
Can I swap vodka for something else?
Sure! Gin adds a lovely herbal note. You could also try white rum or even tequila for a bolder twist.
What does elderflower taste like?
It’s subtly sweet and floral—kind of like pear and lychee had a baby. Very light and fragrant.
Final Thoughts
The Lotus cocktail is proof that simple ingredients can make something truly special. Whether you’re sipping solo or mixing for friends, it brings a little elegance to the moment. Try it as-is, or play around with the variations until you find your own signature twist. Cheers!
