This is one of those cocktails that feels like a little celebration in a glass. The Rose Tattoo is fruity, floral, and just tart enough to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of drink that turns an ordinary evening into something a little more special. I’ve made this cocktail countless times—it’s a go-to for summer nights on the patio or when I want to impress guests with something elegant and easy.
Rose Tattoo
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Martini glass or wine glass
Ingredients
– 30 ml (1 oz) applejack or apple brandy
– 15 ml (1/2 oz) triple sec
– 30 ml (1 oz) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 30 ml (1 oz) cranberry juice
– 15 ml (1/2 oz) grenadine (or use pomegranate juice for a less sweet option)
– Ice cubes (enough to fill your shaker)
– Garnish: Lemon twist or edible rose petal (optional)
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your martini or wine glass in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water while you prep the drink.
- Fill your shaker with ice. You’ll want it nice and cold to chill the drink quickly.
- Add all the ingredients. Pour in the applejack, triple sec, lemon juice, cranberry juice, and grenadine. Use fresh lemon juice—it really makes a difference.
- Shake it well. Shake for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold and frosty.
- Strain into your chilled glass. Discard the ice water if you used that method. Strain the cocktail through a fine mesh sieve if you want it extra smooth.
- Garnish and serve. Add a twist of lemon or a rose petal for that extra touch. Sip and enjoy.
Tips & Tricks
– Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness—bottled just doesn’t compare.
– If you don’t have applejack, a good quality apple brandy works beautifully.
– Want it less sweet? Swap grenadine for pomegranate juice.
– For a lighter version, top it with a splash of soda water.
– Don’t skip chilling the glass—it keeps the drink crisp and refreshing.
Make-Ahead Notes
Mix everything (except the ice and garnish) ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, shake with ice and strain.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’ve made a batch, keep it chilled in a sealed jar or bottle for up to one day. Shake again before serving.
Serving Suggestions
The Rose Tattoo pairs well with:
– Aged cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda—the saltiness balances the cocktail’s sweetness
– Spicy dishes, especially Thai or Szechuan—the tart lemon and cranberry help cool the heat
– Dark chocolate for a decadent dessert pairing
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner pairings: a Rose Tattoo with a square of dark chocolate. The richness of the chocolate makes the fruity notes in the drink really pop.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Lemon Juice: Try lime juice for a slightly tropical twist
Grenadine: Swap in elderflower liqueur for floral complexity
Applejack: Use bourbon for a deeper, richer flavor
Blushing Rose
– Replace cranberry juice with pomegranate juice
– Garnish with fresh mint
– Adds a slightly tangier, antioxidant-rich twist
Tropical Tattoo
– Add a splash of coconut water
– Serve over crushed ice in a hurricane glass
– Great for hot days when you want something refreshing and hydrating
Rose Garden
– Add 1 tsp rose syrup and a dash of rosewater
– Stir gently instead of shaking to preserve delicate floral notes
– Garnish with a rosebud for a stunning finish
Virgin Rose Tattoo (Non-Alcoholic)
– Swap applejack for apple juice
– Omit triple sec
– Use pomegranate juice instead of grenadine
– Add a splash of soda water for a fizzy lift
– Garnish with a slice of apple or lemon
Common Questions
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Keep it chilled and shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
What’s the best time of year to serve this?
It’s perfect for spring and summer, but honestly, I’ve served it in winter too. Its bright flavor is a nice break from heavier seasonal drinks.
Do I have to use a martini glass?
Not at all—a wine glass works just fine. The wide opening helps release the floral aromas.
How can I tone down the sweetness?
Use less grenadine or replace it with pomegranate juice. You can also add a splash of soda water to cut the sweetness.
Can I skip the garnish?
Of course. But if you have a lemon or edible flower on hand, it really adds a pretty touch.
This cocktail may not be as old as some classics, but it’s got charm, character, and enough personality to earn a spot on your favorites list. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and always a crowd-pleaser.
