The Lavender Tonic is a botanical, color-shifting tonic build that drinks like a spa cocktail—without needing a full bar setup. Extra-strong lavender tea lays down floral aromatics, Top Hat East India Tonic Water brings crisp quinine structure, and a float of Top Hat Butterfly Truth Serum delivers that deep indigo-to-violet color change as citrus is added. Zero proof by default, it is easy to keep non-alcoholic or spike with your favorite gin.
Built right in the glass, this Lavender Tonic marries strong lavender tea with East India Tonic for structure, then finishes with a float of Butterfly Truth Serum for a dramatic, Instagram-ready color shift. Keep it zero proof, or add a splash of gin for a floral G&T variation.
Method
- Add 3 oz extra-strong lavender tea* to a balloon or Copa de Balon glass.
- Fill the glass completely with ice.
- Top with 4–6 oz Top Hat East India Tonic Water.
- Slowly float 1 oz Top Hat Butterfly Truth Serum over the top to create a layered color shift.
- Garnish with a lavender sprig, cucumber ribbon, or a twist of citrus peel.
Pro move: Pour the Butterfly Truth Serum over the back of an inverted bar spoon so it sits on top of the tonic, giving you a dramatic two-tone effect before the drink naturally blends.
How to Make Extra-Strong Lavender Tea*
This cocktail works best with intentionally strong lavender tea so the flavor stays bold when chilled and diluted with ice and tonic.
- Heat 2 cups water to just below a boil, then turn off the heat.
- Add 1 cup culinary lavender (about 2–3× normal tea strength).
- Steep for 10 minutes for maximum aroma and color.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer or coffee filter.
- Chill until cold before using in cocktails.
Storage: Keeps 3–5 days refrigerated in a sealed container.