Ingredients:

For the Drink:

  • 1 ½ oz vodka
  • 1 oz elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)
  • ½ oz blue curaçao
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • ½ oz simple syrup
  • 2 oz sparkling water or club soda
  • Ice cubes

For the Garnish:

  • Lemon twist
  • Edible silver glitter or shimmer dust (optional for a lunar effect)
  • A sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary (optional for a herbal touch)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Glass:
    • Chill a coupe or martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes.
  2. Mix the Drink:
    • In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, elderflower liqueur, blue curaçao, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
    • Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
  3. Strain and Top:
    • Strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
    • Top with sparkling water or club soda to give the drink a light effervescence.
  4. Add the Lunar Touch:
    • For a celestial effect, sprinkle a small amount of edible silver glitter or shimmer dust over the drink.
    • Garnish with a lemon twist draped over the rim of the glass and a sprig of thyme or rosemary if desired.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve immediately and enjoy the ethereal flavors of the Lunar Lush, perfect for a night under the stars.

Origin Story of Lunar Lush

The Lunar Lush cocktail is a creation born from the fascination with the moon and the mysteries of the night sky. Its inspiration comes from the idea of capturing the ethereal beauty and serene calm of a moonlit night in a glass. This cocktail was designed to be both visually stunning and refreshingly delicate, offering a drinking experience that feels otherworldly.

The concept of the Lunar Lush began with mixologists who wanted to create a cocktail that would evoke the essence of the moon’s glow and the tranquility of nighttime. The drink was first introduced at an upscale bar known for its themed nights, where each drink was carefully crafted to match the ambiance and theme of the evening. The “Lunar Night” event was where the Lunar Lush made its debut, quickly becoming the highlight of the menu.

The ingredients chosen for the Lunar Lush reflect the mystical and refined qualities of the moon. Vodka provides a clean and smooth base, while elderflower liqueur adds a subtle floral sweetness reminiscent of night-blooming flowers. Blue curaçao contributes a deep blue hue, representing the twilight sky, and lemon juice adds a refreshing citrus brightness, akin to the crispness of night air. The touch of sparkling water or club soda gives the drink a light, bubbly texture, mimicking the twinkling of stars.

The final touch, a sprinkle of edible silver glitter, is what truly elevates the Lunar Lush. This shimmering dust, combined with the blue hue of the drink, creates a visual effect reminiscent of moonlight reflecting on water or the surface of the moon itself. The garnish of a lemon twist adds a bright, zesty note, while the optional sprig of thyme or rosemary introduces an earthy, herbal element, grounding the drink’s ethereal qualities.

Since its creation, the Lunar Lush has become a popular choice for evening gatherings, particularly those with a celestial or mystical theme. Its delicate balance of flavors and stunning presentation make it an ideal cocktail for sipping while gazing at the night sky, contemplating the mysteries of the universe, or simply enjoying the peacefulness of a moonlit night.