Rose Cocktail
A delicate and elegant vermouth-based cocktail from 1920s Paris, featuring French dry vermouth, kirschwasser, and raspberry syrup with a beautiful pink hue.
22%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
Flavor Journey
History & Heritage
“The Rose cocktail originated in early 20th-century Paris, most credibly attributed to Johnny Mitta at the Chatham Hotel around 1920. This elegant, vermouth-based apéritif represents the sophisticated drinking culture of "Les Années Folles" (the crazy years) in 1920s Paris. Originally made with redcurrant syrup, raspberry syrup became a popular substitute. The cocktail embodied the Art Deco aesthetic with its delicate pink hue and represented European refinement even as American-style cocktails grew popular. Frank Meier's 1936 "The Artistry of Mixing Drinks" reinforced Johnny Mitta's attribution, cementing the Rose's place in cocktail history.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a cocktail coupe or Nick & Nora glass thoroughly
Combine dry vermouth, kirschwasser, and raspberry syrup in a mixing glass
Fill mixing glass two-thirds full with high-quality, clear ice
Stir briskly for 20-30 seconds until well-frosted and properly chilled
Strain into the chilled glass
Garnish with a brandied cherry
Glassware
Served up in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass
Garnish
Use high-quality Luxardo Maraschino or Amarena cherry, drained of excess syrup
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use fresh, high-quality vermouth and refrigerate after opening
Make your own raspberry syrup for superior flavor and color
Stir thoroughly to achieve proper temperature and dilution
The drink should be crystal clear, not cloudy
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Rose Cocktail.
The Albert Rose
Adds a teaspoon of cherry liqueur for increased sweetness and complexity.
Changes
Original with Redcurrant
Uses traditional sirop de groseille (redcurrant syrup) instead of raspberry.
Changes
Rose Cocktail (French Style No. 1)
The gin-based variation that emerged in the 1920s, more spirit-forward.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Rosemary Gibson
A modern aromatic twist on the classic Gibson, featuring gin, dry vermouth, and a fresh rosemary sprig that adds herbal complexity to the savory cocktail onion garnish.
Clover Leaf
The mint‑topped cousin of the Clover Club—gin, lemon, raspberry syrup and egg white crowned with a mint leaf.
Floradora
Edwardian crowd‑pleaser—gin, lime, and raspberry built tall with ginger ale for a bright, berry‑ginger fizz.