9 perfect valentine's day cocktails and drinks

Whether you’re looking for a cocktail to make at home, a gal-entine’s day treat, or the perfect recipe to serve as a special at your bar, you’re in the right place. As well as covering some of the simpler drinks options for use as Valentine’s Day gifts or simply to stock at the bar, we’ve put together a list of nine elaborate yet simple Valentine’s Day cocktails. Ranging from champagne cocktails to simply pink cocktails, they are sure to sweep you off your feet.

Popular spirits and drinks at valentines

Before we jump into Valentine’s Day recipes, it’s worth running through the drinks and spirits that scream romance. The following drinks are perfect Valentine’s Day gifts, but also provide an easier option if you aren’t looking for something as elaborate as a cocktail.

1. Chambord

This delectable dark raspberry liqueur oozes class. With its beautiful golden bottle, it makes the perfect present or feature piece at a bar. For a simple Chambord drink, all you have to do is add to prosecco or champagne.

2. Rose/pink gin

It’s Valentine’s, of course a pink drink is going to make the list of top drinks. A rose or pink gin such as Salcombe Gin Rose Sainte Marie is a luxury-looking gift, as well as a delightfully romantic tipple to offer at the bar. Combined simply with a tart tonic, you can’t go wrong.

3. Champagne

The ultimate drink of luxury and love. A simple glass of Champagne is never going to be a bad option as a Valentine’s Day drink, whether served with a meal or simply as a luscious treat. Probably the world's most loved champagne, Moët & Chandon is renowned for great reason. It doesn’t get more glamorous than this.

Valentine’s Day cocktail recipes

Now for the cocktail recipes. They are all easy to make, most require fewer than five ingredients, and some you may even be able to create using what’s already in your liquor cabinet or behind the bar.

1.    A kiss from a rose

This simple and subtle cocktail takes a standard gin and tonic to a whole other (romantic) level.

To create, simply combine equal parts pink gin (we love Salcombe Gin Rose Sainte Marie), a deliciously refreshing rose lemonade, such as Avalade, and pink grapefruit juice in a glass tumbler. Finish with 4 ice cubes and a sprig of rosemary to garnish.

2.    Chambord royale

This truly elegant cocktail is bursting with flavour thanks to the addition of the delicious Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur. It couldn’t be simpler to make - simply combine 4 parts champagne or prosecco with 1⁄2 part Chambord in a champagne flute and is garnish with a raspberry. Et voila!

3.    I like you a latte

This twist on a traditional espresso martini is equally as delicious as it is easy to drink. To a shaker, add ice cubes, 1 part coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua), 1 part vodka (we love 42 Below), 1 part espresso, and 2 parts oat milk. Shake until silky and strain into a cocktail glass. For an extra touch of deliciousness, you can dust with cocoa powder or coffee powder.

4.    Apple to my eye

This apple flavoured drink is perfect for a refreshing after-dinner treat. In a cocktail shaker, combine ice cubes, 1 ½ parts vodka, ¾ parts lemon juice, ¾ part simple syrup, ⅔ part cloudy apple juice, and ⅔ part sour apple liqueur. Shake well and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with thinly sliced apple.

5.    Cloud nine

Cloud nine is a highly effective (and tasty) cocktail, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. To add to the magic, you could even create this cocktail in front of the intended recipient so they can watch the wizardry at work. It couldn’t be easier to make - simply fill a champagne flute with cotton candy and watch it dissolve as you pour over the champagne. Top with some extra cotton candy, and a touch of edible glitter if you fancy!

6.    Pink lady

This classic 1950s cocktail is delicate yet punchy and works as both an evening tipple and meal accompaniment. To create, first muddle a few raspberries in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. To this, add a few ice cubes, 1 part lemon juice, 1 part triple sec, and 2 parts gin. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a few raspberries.

7.    Love heart shot

OK, so we know this technically isn’t a cocktail, but this sweet shot is the perfect way to end a Valentine’s meal, especially if you’re too full for dessert! In a shot glass, combine equal parts strawberry liqueur, cream liqueur, and vodka. Top with squirty cream and a couple of love heart sweets.

8.    Queen of hearts

A tart but tasty cranberry cosmo is a firm favourite cocktail in bars for a reason. To make, simply add: ice, 2 parts vodka, 2 parts cranberry juice, 1 part Cointreau, 1 part lemon juice, and ½ part simple syrup, to a cocktail shaker and shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass and finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a slice of lime to garnish.

9.    Just peachy

This fruity number is perfect for wine lovers who love a fresh but satisfyingly sweet drink. To make, in a glass filled with ice, add: 3 parts dry white wine, 1 part mango rum, 1 part peach schnapps, ⅕ part lemon juice, ⅕ part orange juice, and 2 parts Sprite. Give it a quick stir and then add slices of mango and peach to complete.