A cocktail that’s as elegant as its name, the Princess is light, refreshing, and just the right amount of sweet. With a delicate balance of gin, vermouth, citrus, and a touch of effervescence, it’s a drink that feels special without being fussy. I’ve made this countless times for friends, and it always impresses with its smooth, floral notes. Whether you’re toasting a celebration or just unwinding at the end of the day, this cocktail brings a touch of sophistication to any moment.
Princess
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) gin – A floral or citrus-forward gin works best
- 0.5 oz (15ml) white vermouth – Adds a smooth, slightly herbal depth
- 0.25 oz (7ml) fresh lemon juice – Brightens up the flavors
- 0.25 oz (7ml) simple syrup – Just enough to balance the tartness
- 2 dashes orange bitters – A little extra complexity
- Sparkling water – To top it off and add some lightness
- Garnish: Lemon twist or an edible flower
Glass: A Champagne flute is ideal—it enhances the bubbles and aroma. If you don’t have one, a martini glass works too.
How to Make It
- Chill your glass. Pop it in the freezer for a few minutes for a crisp, cold sip.
- Mix the ingredients. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, white vermouth, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Add ice and shake. Shake well until the mixture is nicely chilled—about 15 seconds.
- Strain into your glass. Use a fine strainer to keep it smooth.
- Top with sparkling water. Just a splash to lighten things up.
- Add bitters. A couple of dashes give it that final touch.
- Garnish. A lemon twist or an edible flower makes it beautiful.
Tips for the Best Princess Cocktail
- Fresh ingredients matter. Fresh lemon juice makes a huge difference—bottled juice just won’t do.
- Adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a drier drink, use less simple syrup or skip it altogether.
- Chill everything. A cold glass and well-shaken ingredients make for the best experience.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations:
Floral Princess
- Swap the simple syrup for elderflower syrup for a delicate floral note.
Berry Princess
- Add a splash of cranberry juice for a hint of tartness and a gorgeous pink hue.
Spiced Princess
- Stir with a cinnamon stick and garnish with an apple slice for a cozy, fall-inspired version.
Virgin Princess (Alcohol-Free)
- Mix sparkling grape juice, a splash of lemon juice, and a dash of bitters for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
What to Serve with a Princess Cocktail
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, elegant bites:
- Canapés: Mini toasts with smoked salmon or cucumber sandwiches keep things refined.
- Seafood: Oysters or shrimp cocktail complement the crisp, citrusy notes.
- Fresh Salads: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette mirrors the drink’s brightness.
Common Questions
Can I make this in a big batch for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and mix everything (except the sparkling water) in a pitcher. When serving, pour into glasses and top with sparkling water.
What’s the best gin to use?
A floral or citrus-forward gin works best, but any smooth gin will do.
Can I rim the glass with sugar?
Absolutely! A sugar rim adds a little extra sweetness and sparkle.
What if I don’t have white vermouth?
You can use dry vermouth or even Lillet Blanc for a slightly different but equally delicious result.
How can I make it even prettier?
Garnish with an edible flower or a twist of citrus zest for an elegant touch.
Light, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant, the Princess cocktail is one of those drinks that feels special every time you make it. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Cheers! 🍸
