Botanical Dream
A delicate, floral evolution of the Poet's Dream using the rose and cucumber notes of Hendrick's gin alongside honeyed blanc vermouth and herbal Strega.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin — Hendrick's recommended
- 0.75 oz Blanc vermouth — Dolin Blanc
- 0.25 oz Strega
- 1 dash Orange bitters
Story
We started by exploring riffs on the Poet’s Dream using Strega and blanc vermouth. Once I specified Hendrick’s as the base, we pivoted from the traditional sharp, juniper-heavy profile toward a softer, more botanical build. You suggested this version to ensure the delicate rose and cucumber notes of the gin weren’t overwhelmed by the minty intensity of the Strega.
Method
- Chill a coupe glass in the freezer.
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir gently for ~45 seconds for maximum chill and proper dilution.
- Strain into the chilled glass.
- Express the oils of a lemon twist over the surface or add a cucumber ribbon.
Notes
- One of four siblings in the Hendrick’s/blanc-vermouth/Strega family (Crystal Witch, Witch in the Garden, Gilded Dream).
- Hendrick’s requires a longer stir than higher-proof gins to maintain silky texture when paired with blanc vermouth.