Melbourne is a city that knows its cocktails. With a thriving bar scene, innovative mixologists, and a passion for craft spirits, it’s no surprise that locals love a well-made drink. Whether you’re looking to recreate a classic or try something new, this DIY recipe guide features five of Melbourne’s favourite cocktails. With the city’s reputation for premium spirits, including those from Australian gin distilleries, you’ll find that crafting a high-quality cocktail at home is easier than ever. If you’re inspired by a recent gin tasting in Melbourne, or you’ve toured a local gin distillery, these recipes will help you bring a touch of Melbourne’s cocktail culture into your home.
1. Melbourne Negroni
A twist on the traditional Italian classic, Melbourne’s version of the Negroni often incorporates locally crafted gins, making it a standout choice for lovers of bitter, balanced drinks.
Ingredients:
- 30ml Melbourne-made gin (from one of the many Australian gin distilleries)
- 30ml sweet vermouth
- 30ml Campari
- Orange peel, for garnish
Method:
- Add all ingredients into a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir well until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
2. Botanical Gin Sour
Melbourne’s appreciation for local botanicals shines through in this refreshing and zesty cocktail, which highlights the vibrant flavours found in spirits from a gin distillery.
Ingredients:
- 60ml Melbourne-distilled gin
- 30ml fresh lemon juice
- 15ml simple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
- Angostura bitters, for garnish
Method:
- Add gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a shaker.
- Dry shake (without ice) for 10 seconds.
- Add ice and shake again.
- Strain into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a few drops of Angostura bitters.
3. Federation Martini
Inspired by Melbourne’s rich history, this martini celebrates the city’s love for well-balanced, aromatic cocktails made with high-quality ingredients from Australian gin distilleries.
Ingredients:
- 60ml Melbourne-distilled gin
- 15ml dry vermouth
- Lemon twist or olive, for garnish
Method:
- Stir gin and vermouth with ice in a mixing glass.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or an olive.
4. Yarra Valley Bramble
This cocktail brings together Melbourne’s love for fresh produce and craft gin, making it a popular choice at many gin tasting in Melbourne events.
Ingredients:
- 50ml Melbourne-distilled gin
- 20ml fresh lemon juice
- 10ml simple syrup
- 15ml blackberry liqueur
- Fresh blackberries, for garnish
Method:
- Fill a rocks glass with crushed ice.
- Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir gently.
- Drizzle blackberry liqueur over the top.
- Garnish with fresh blackberries.
5. Flinders Lane Spritz
Perfect for a warm Melbourne afternoon, this spritz combines the refreshing notes of locally made gin with citrus and sparkling wine.
Ingredients:
- 45ml Melbourne-distilled gin
- 60ml prosecco
- 30ml soda water
- 15ml elderflower liqueur
- Orange slice, for garnish
Method:
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Add gin, prosecco, soda water, and elderflower liqueur.
- Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
Bringing Melbourne’s Cocktail Culture Home
Recreating Melbourne’s favourite cocktails at home is a great way to celebrate the city’s vibrant drinks scene. Whether you’ve enjoyed a gin tasting in Melbourne, toured a gin distillery, or sampled premium spirits from Australian gin distilleries, these recipes offer a way to experience Melbourne’s cocktail culture in your own space. So grab your favourite bottle of locally distilled gin, mix up a drink, and toast to the artistry of Melbourne’s mixologists!
