If you’re craving a cocktail that feels like sipping on spring itself—fresh, crisp, and totally refreshing—you’re in for a treat. The Springwater Cocktail is a simple, elegant drink that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to enjoy. With bright lemon, a touch of sweetness, and a botanical kick from gin, this is the kind of drink that makes you want to kick back on a sunny afternoon. I’ve made this countless times for friends and family, and it never fails to impress. Let’s get mixing!
Springwater Cocktail
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60 ml) gin
- 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
- Soda water (to top off)
- Fresh mint leaves (a few for garnish, plus extra if you want a stronger minty flavor)
- Ice cubes
Equipment: A shaker, a strainer, and a highball glass or Collins glass.
Prep Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Method
- Start by gently muddling a couple of fresh mint leaves in your shaker. You don’t want to crush them into oblivion—just press enough to release their aromatic oils. Over-muddling can make the mint taste bitter.
- Add 2 oz (60 ml) gin, 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup to the shaker. Toss in a handful of ice cubes.
- Shake it up! Give it a good 15-second shake until the shaker feels nice and cold in your hands.
- Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Top it off with soda water for a light, bubbly finish.
- Give it a gentle stir, then garnish with a sprig of mint. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even slap the mint lightly between your palms before garnishing—it releases more of its scent.
Take a sip and enjoy that bright, zesty flavor with just the right amount of herbal kick. It’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like spring has arrived, no matter the time of year.
Tips for the Perfect Springwater Cocktail
- Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t cut it here—you want that sharp, citrusy brightness.
- Homemade simple syrup is a breeze to make. Just dissolve equal parts sugar and water over low heat, then let it cool. It keeps in the fridge for weeks.
- Don’t skimp on the soda water. A good-quality soda water adds a clean, crisp fizz that really brings the drink to life.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re hosting a party, you can mix the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. When your guests arrive, just pour over ice, top with soda water, and garnish. This way, you can spend more time mingling and less time mixing.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- No simple syrup? Swap it for honey or agave nectar for a natural sweetness. Just make sure to stir well so it dissolves.
- No soda water? Sparkling water or even a splash of tonic can work in a pinch.
- Want to skip the alcohol? Replace the gin with more soda water or a splash of non-alcoholic gin for a mocktail that’s just as refreshing.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, fresh dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Crisp green salads with vinaigrette dressing—the cocktail’s citrusy notes complement the tanginess of the salad.
- Grilled white fish or shrimp—the clean flavors of the seafood play nicely with the drink’s botanical notes.
- Fruit sorbets like lemon or raspberry for dessert—a perfectly cool, citrusy finish.
Fun Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try one of these twists on the classic:
Rosewater Springwater
- Add 2–3 drops of rosewater to the shaker before mixing for a subtle floral aroma.
Cucumber Springwater
- Muddle a couple of thin cucumber slices with the mint for an extra layer of refreshing flavor.
Sparkling Elderflower Springwater
- Replace the soda water with sparkling wine and add a splash of elderflower liqueur for a fancier take.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Don’t overdo the mint. Too much muddling or too many leaves can make the drink taste grassy instead of fresh.
- Balance is key. If the drink feels too tart, add a touch more simple syrup. If it’s too sweet, squeeze in a little extra lemon juice.
FAQs
Can I make this cocktail in a batch for a crowd?
Yes! Just multiply the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup by the number of servings you need. Store the mix in the fridge and add soda water and ice when serving.
What’s the best gin for a Springwater Cocktail?
A classic London dry gin is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment with floral or citrus-forward gins to find what you love.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?
You can, but it’ll give the drink a slightly tangier, less floral flavor. Lemon really brings out the “spring” vibe.
How long does simple syrup last in the fridge?
Up to a month if stored in a clean, airtight container.
What other garnishes work besides mint?
Try a thin lemon wheel, a twist of lemon peel, or even an edible flower for a bit of flair.
This cocktail has been my go-to for sunny afternoons and casual gatherings. It’s simple, refreshing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick with the classic or try one of the variations, the Springwater Cocktail is guaranteed to brighten your day. Cheers!
