First Kiss
A refined spin on a classic gimlet made with botanical gin, fresh lemon, and simple syrup. Finished with an optional butterfly pea flower tea drizzle that adds a subtle floral note and a beautifully layered blush hue.
Because every drink deserves a beautiful moment.
Ingredients
2 oz botanical gin
1 oz fresh lemon juice
½ to ¾ oz simple syrup, to taste
Butterfly pea flower tea, optional
Instructions
Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until well chilled.
Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Gently drizzle a small amount of butterfly pea flower tea over the top, if using.
Garnish with a lemon wheel or dried citrus slice.
Notes from the Bar
A Wedding Cocktail
This cocktail was served at our wedding as a signature drink. It’s simple, elegant, and quietly celebratory, making it perfect for meaningful moments without feeling fussy.
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
The pea flower tea is optional, but it adds a soft floral layer and creates a subtle color contrast that makes the drink feel special. A light drizzle is all you need. → Link to our butterfly pea flower tea
Sweetness Adjustment
Start with ½ oz simple syrup for a brighter, more classic gimlet profile. Increase to ¾ oz if you prefer a softer, more rounded finish.
Gin Selection
We served this cocktail with Uncle Val’s Botanical Gin at our wedding and also love it with Esmé Botanical Gin. A citrus-forward gin works beautifully as well.
Heads up: We may earn a small commission on products we’ve linked here. We only recommend the real-deal favorites from our kitchen.
Make It a Date Nite
This cocktail is part of something bigger for us. It's a ritual we return to week after week.
Each week, we create a Date Nite designed around one drink, one thoughtful menu, and the feeling of slowing down together. The kind of night where the table is set with intention, the music hums softly in the background, and the evening unfolds without rushing.
For this Date Nite, we’ve paired a cocktail with a cozy, make-ahead-friendly menu, so you can enjoy the process without spending the whole night in the kitchen. We also include little touches we love like timing notes, a head start option, and a playlist to set the mood. Feel to pair the meal with any of our cocktails.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence. And turning an ordinary night at home into something that feels quietly special.
Each Date Nite includes a curated menu, cocktail pairing and a playlist, as well as another thoughtful extras like make-ahead tips, leftover ideas or table talk prompts to carry the night.
Kevin & Kate
Stories worth Savoring
Our latest blog posts for inspiration, reflections, and recipes.
