Can I make this cocktail in advance for a party?

It's best to shake French Martinis fresh to preserve the froth and aroma. However, you can pre-mix the vodka, Chambord, and pineapple juice in a pitcher and shake individual servings with ice when guests arrive.

How do I make jasmine tea syrup?

Steep 2 bags of jasmine tea in 1 cup of hot water for 3 minutes. Remove tea bags and stir in 1 cup of sugar until dissolved. Let cool before using. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Can I substitute another tea or syrup?

Absolutely! Green tea syrup or even chamomile syrup works beautifully if you want to experiment with different flavors. Just keep the syrup-to-tea ratio the same.

What’s the best gin for this cocktail?

A London Dry gin is classic and lets the floral and spice notes shine, but feel free to use a floral gin if you want to enhance the jasmine character. Avoid overly juniper-forward gins that might overpower the other flavors.

Shanghai Gin

Name: Shanghai Gin
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 2 oz Gin; 0.75 oz Fresh lemon juice; 0.75 oz Jasmine tea syrup; 0.5 oz Ginger liqueur; 2 dashes Orange bitters

The Shanghai Gin is a vibrant and modern cocktail that blends the botanical brightness of gin with exotic Asian flavors, creating a refreshing drink that’s as stylish as Shanghai’s skyline. With its aromatic notes of jasmine and ginger, balanced with a touch of citrus, the Shanghai Gin is an unforgettable fusion—perfect for cocktail adventurers and gin lovers alike.

5 minutesMedium1 serving

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Ingredients

1 serving

Gin
60 ml (2 oz)
A London Dry gin works well, but floral gins are also excellent.
Fresh lemon juice
25 ml (0.75 oz)
For brightness and acidity.
Jasmine tea syrup
25 ml (0.75 oz)
See note below on how to make this syrup.
Ginger liqueur
15 ml (0.5 oz)
Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
Orange bitters
2 dashes
Optional, but adds depth to the drink.

Tools Needed

Cocktail shaker
Strainer
Jigger
Bar spoon
Fine mesh strainer (optional)

Instructions

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add gin, fresh lemon juice, jasmine tea syrup, ginger liqueur, and orange bitters to the shaker.
Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until well chilled.
Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. For extra clarity, double strain through a fine mesh strainer.
Garnish with a twist of lemon peel and an edible flower, such as an orchid, for an elegant touch.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

A beautiful balance of floral, citrus, and spice notes.
Showcases gin in an exciting new context with Asian inspiration.
Perfect for impressing guests with something different and sophisticated.
Refreshing and not too sweet, making it great for any season.
Easy to customize with your favorite gin or tea infusions.

History & Origin

The Shanghai Gin is a contemporary creation inspired by the cosmopolitan spirit of Shanghai, a city known for its blend of East and West. While gin is traditionally a Western spirit, this cocktail borrows ingredients and influences from Chinese cuisine and tea culture, such as jasmine tea syrup and ginger. The result is a drink that pays homage to Shanghai's history as a crossroads of culture, innovation, and taste. First appearing in upscale bars across Asia in the early 2010s, the Shanghai Gin has quickly become a favorite for those seeking something unique yet approachable.

Garnish

A twist of lemon peel and an edible flower (such as an orchid). The lemon peel adds a burst of citrus aroma, while the flower enhances the visual appeal and nods to the cocktail’s floral notes.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 180 calories per serving. Contains alcohol, minimal fat, and about 8g sugar (from the syrup and liqueur).

Frequently Asked Questions

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