Sweet And Spicy Hibiscus Martini (Sorrel Martini)

If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s a little different from the usual, this hibiscus martini (or sorrel martini, as we call it in the Caribbean) is worth a try! Made with sorrel, gin, Aperol, and homemade ginger syrup, it’s tart, slightly sweet, and citrusy, with a little kick from the ginger. The floral notes of the sorrel bring everything together for a cocktail that’s anything but ordinary.

What is sorrel

Sorrel is a popular Caribbean ingredient made from the deep red calyces of the hibiscus plant (Hibiscus sabdariffa). It has a naturally tart, slightly floral flavor and is traditionally used to make a spiced drink, especially around Christmas.

That same tart flavor makes it a great base for cocktails like this martini. If you’re curious about how Caribbean sorrel compares to other types of hibiscus, check out my Sorrel vs. Hibiscus article.

For another cocktail using this Caribbean favorite, try my Sorrel Rum Punch.

How to make a sorrel martini (Hibiscus martini)

Ingredients you will need

To make this Hibiscus Martini, you will need:

• Gin – A floral Gin works best. I recommend Harry Blu’s Gin for its floral botanicals.
• Aperol – Adds a slightly bitter, citrusy depth.
• Sorrel drink: I originally developed this recipe using a concentrated sorrel infusion made with dried sorrel and hot water. I’ve also made it with my regular homemade sorrel drink when I have some on hand. Both work, but the prepared drink is already sweetened and spiced, so you may need to adjust the ginger syrup.
• Ginger Simple Syrup – A touch of sweetness and spice. See how to make it below.

Instructions

How to make sorrel infusion

Before making the martini, prepare the sorrel infusion and ginger simple syrup.

1. Steep 3 tablespoons of dried sorrel in 2 oz of hot water.
2. Let it cool before using.

How to make ginger simple syrup

1. Boil 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add 1/4 cup sliced fresh ginger and let it simmer for 4 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and steep until cool, then strain before using.

How to make a sorrel martini

Once your sorrel drink and ginger simple syrup are ready, follow these steps to make the martini:

1. Add the gin, Aperol, sorrel infusion, and ginger simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
2. Shake without ice to combine the ingredients.
3. For a colder martini, add ice and shake again until chilled.
4. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with food-grade dried hibiscus flowers, if desired.

Substitutions & Variations

• No gin? Swap it for vodka for a cleaner, less floral taste.
• No Aperol? Try Campari for a bolder, more bitter profile.
• Want it alcohol-free? Skip both the gin and Aperol. Use tonic water with a splash of orange juice, along with the sorrel infusion and ginger syrup, for a refreshing mocktail version.
• No dried sorrel? Use hibiscus tea bags steeped in hot water for a similar flavor.
• Too tart? Add a bit of superfine sugar to adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Serving suggestions

Serve your martini in a traditional glass with a garnish of dried hibiscus flowers. For extra flair, try adding a slice of orange, a piece of fresh ginger, or even a sprig of mint.

Storage

I prefer to keep the sorrel infusion and ginger simple syrup refrigerated separately, then mix the martini when I’m ready to serve.

Store both in clean, airtight containers in the refrigerator. Use the sorrel infusion within 3 to 4 days and the ginger syrup within 1 to 2 weeks. Give them a quick stir before mixing your cocktail.

More sorrel recipes to try

If you love the bold, tangy flavor of sorrel, check out these other Caribbean-inspired recipes:

• Sorrel (Hibiscus) BBQ Sauce – Perfect as a dip or marinade for wings, ribs, or tofu.
• Light Sorrel cake – A delicious, subtly spiced cake infused with sorrel, perfect for any occasion!
• Sorrel wings – Sticky, flavorful chicken wings coated in a sweet and tangy sorrel BBQ sauce.

Try It & Share!

I’d love to hear how your Sorrel Martini turns out! If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know what you think.

Don’t forget to share your cocktail creations on social media and tag me so I can see your amazing drinks! Cheers to bold flavors and Caribbean vibes!

Recipe