The Citrus Grove Martini is what happens when the elegance of a traditional martini strolls through a blooming orange grove at golden hour.
With delicate floral notes from orange blossom syrup, a backbone of crisp vodka, and the subtle complexity of dry vermouth and orange bitters, this cocktail is citrus-forward without being overly sweet.
Best of all, you probably have most of the ingredients in your home bar already.
The lemon twist brightens the profile, while a sprig of thyme leans into the herbal undertones, adding just the right touch of earthiness to this botanical sip.
While I made this one with vodka, it would also pair beautifully with a nice gin.
What does it taste like?
Think zesty citrus with a delicate floral hug—light, crisp, and slightly mysterious. It’s not your average martini. It’s your martini’s elegant, well-traveled cousin you wish would show up more often.
Cocktail Tools
- Cocktail Shaker (or this Mason Jar shaker lid)
- Coupe Glasses (we also like this one and this one)
- Channel Knife
- Fine mesh strainer
- Cocktail strainer
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Citrus juicer
- Lemon Juice
- Orange Blossom Syrup
- Orange Blossom Water
Twists on the Citrus Grove Martini
Want to shake things up? Try one of these variations:
- Herbal Grove: Swap the vodka for gin to bring in juniper and other botanical notes. A great choice if you’re using Empress or a citrus-forward gin.
- Spicy Bloom: Add a tiny slice of fresh jalapeño during the stir for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the floral syrup.
- Citrus Grove Royale: Top your martini with a splash of sparkling wine for a bubbly, brunch-worthy spritz.
- Lavender Grove: Add a dash of lavender bitters or swap the thyme garnish for a dried lavender sprig to dial up the floral intensity.
Citrus Grove Martini Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz orange blossom simple syrup
- 0.5 oz dry vermouth
- 2 dashes orange bitters
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the vodka, orange blossom syrup, dry vermouth, and bitters.
- Stir until well chilled, about 20–30 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass. (I stick my glass in a freezer before I start making the cocktail)
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of fresh thyme.
Mocktail Version – Citrus Grove Zero
A non-alcoholic take that still delivers those floral-citrus vibes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz orange blossom simple syrup
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1.5 oz cold water or chilled jasmine tea
- 2 dashes orange blossom water (optional for aroma)
- Ice
Instructions
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass or coupe. Garnish with a lemon twist or sprig of thyme.
