The Green Man Cocktail

The Green Man Cocktail is a refreshing and herbaceous drink that balances the botanicals of gin with the bold, complex flavors of green chartreuse. I love how the juniper simple syrup deepens the flavor while the lemon juice brightens everything up. Finished with a touch of bitters, it’s a cocktail that feels both elegant and invigorating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this cocktail because it highlights the natural botanicals in gin while layering in complexity with chartreuse and bitters. The homemade juniper simple syrup makes it unique, giving it a signature depth that elevates it above a standard gin drink. I enjoy how it feels sophisticated yet approachable, perfect for slow sipping or impressing guests.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Juniper Simple Syrup
▢1 cup sugar
▢1 cup water
▢1 tbsp juniper berries

The Green Man Cocktail
▢1 ½ oz gin
▢½ oz green chartreuse
▢1 oz Juniper Simple Syrup
▢½ oz lemon juice
▢5-6 drops Bittered Sling orange & juniper bitters, *see note

Directions

1. To make the simple syrup, I combine sugar, water, and juniper berries in a small saucepan. I bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. I let the syrup cool, then strain out the juniper berries and store the syrup in a sealed container.
3. To make the cocktail, I fill a shaker with ice and add gin, green chartreuse, juniper simple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
4. I shake vigorously until well chilled.
5. I strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. I garnish with a lemon twist or a juniper sprig if I want an extra touch.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one cocktail. It takes me about 5 minutes to prepare the drink, plus around 15 minutes to make and cool the syrup.

Variations

I sometimes swap the lemon juice for lime juice for a sharper citrus kick. If I want a lighter version, I top it with a splash of soda water for a sparkling twist. For a more floral profile, I infuse the simple syrup with lavender along with the juniper berries.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the juniper simple syrup in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to 2 weeks. The cocktail itself should always be made fresh, but I sometimes pre-mix the gin, chartreuse, and syrup in a batch and add lemon juice and bitters just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the simple syrup ahead of time?

Yes, I always prepare it in advance and keep it chilled in the fridge until ready to use.

What kind of gin works best?

I like using a London Dry gin for balance, but a more botanical gin also works beautifully.

Can I skip the bitters?

Yes, but I find the bitters add complexity and tie the flavors together.

What is green chartreuse?

It’s a French herbal liqueur made by monks with over 100 different herbs, giving this cocktail its unique depth.

Can I make this drink less sweet?

Yes, I reduce the amount of simple syrup or increase the lemon juice slightly.

How do I make it stronger?

I add a touch more gin or chartreuse to give it extra kick.

Can I batch this cocktail for a party?

Yes, I multiply the ingredients, mix everything except the lemon juice ahead of time, and add lemon juice right before serving.

What garnish works best?

I usually use a lemon twist, but fresh juniper berries or herbs make a nice touch.

Can I use dried juniper berries for the syrup?

Yes, dried juniper berries work just as well and are often easier to find.

How do I serve this cocktail?

I prefer serving it in a coupe or Nick & Nora glass, but a rocks glass with ice also works.

Conclusion

The Green Man Cocktail is one of my favorite gin-based drinks because of its complexity and balance. I love the way the juniper syrup and bitters highlight the herbal notes of gin and chartreuse, while the lemon juice keeps it refreshing. It’s a sophisticated cocktail I reach for when I want something both bold and refreshing.

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