April 22, 2025

As Rochester welcomes the annual Lilac Festival, it’s the perfect time to toast the season with drinks as fresh and vibrant as the blossoms themselves. At Irondequoit Liquor, we’re all about helping you celebrate local traditions in style—with cocktails that capture the spirit of spring. Whether you're hosting a garden party or strolling through Highland Park, floral-inspired drinks offer a beautiful, aromatic way to elevate the occasion.

a hand holds a champagne glass with lilacs; text promotes floral drinks for the Lilac Festival

Celebrate Spring with These Floral-Inspired Cocktails

Floral cocktails are known for their subtle, fragrant notes that pair perfectly with sunny days and blooming scenery. Whether you enjoy the herbal character of gin or prefer something bubbly and bright, there’s a floral cocktail for every palate.

Lavender French 75

  • Ingredients: 1 oz gin, ½ oz fresh lemon juice, ½ oz lavender simple syrup, 3 oz sparkling wine
  • Instructions: Shake gin, lemon juice, and syrup with ice. Strain into a flute and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a sprig of lavender.
  • Why It Works: Effervescent and elegant, this take on a classic French 75 adds an herbal twist that pairs beautifully with spring blooms.

Rose Margarita

  • Ingredients: 2 oz tequila, 1 oz fresh lime juice, ½ oz rose syrup, splash of triple sec
  • Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a salt- or sugar-rimmed glass. Garnish with a lime wedge or rose petal.
  • Why It Works: Floral and tangy, this margarita adds a romantic twist to a fiesta favorite.

Spring Flowers Cocktail with Lilac Syrup

  • Ingredients: 1 oz lilac simple syrup, 1.5 oz light rum, ½ oz crème de violette
  • Instructions: Mix all ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with fresh lilac blossoms.
  • Why It Works: This vibrant violet-hued cocktail captures the essence of spring with its rich floral flavors and eye-catching color.

Stock Up Locally & Sip in Style

Adding floral flavors to your cocktails is a great way to embrace Rochester’s Lilac Festival spirit, and we’re here to help. Whether you're building a cocktail menu or just looking to try something new, Irondequoit Liquor offers a wide selection of wine and spirits to bring your floral creations to life.

Get in touch with our team today, and we’ll help you find everything you need for a fresh, flower-forward celebration. Raise a glass to spring in full bloom.