Drinks

The Dark Rose Recipe

ByLuna Ryder October 30, 2025October 30, 2025

Introduction

The Dark Rose is a beautifully balanced cocktail combining the tartness of pomegranate and lemon with the warmth of tequila and a hint of raspberry. It’s a refreshing and elegant drink perfect for any occasion, garnished with vibrant pomegranate arils and delicate rose petals.

Three clear stemmed glasses hold a deep red drink filled to the brim, each topped with a large clear ice cube and a small dark red flower petal resting on the ice. Tiny red berries float in the liquid, adding texture and color contrast. These glasses are set against a backdrop of white roses with green leaves scattered around, all placed on a white marbled textured surface. The scene is lit with warm sunlight that casts soft shadows and highlights the vibrant colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 ounces (1/4 cup) tequila
1/2 ounce (1 tablespoon) raspberry liqueur (Chambord) (optional)
1/2 ounce (1 tablespoon) lemon juice
1/3 cup pomegranate juice
1/2 cup ginger beer
Pomegranate arils, for serving
Dried rose petals, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fill a cocktail glass with ice to chill it while you prepare the drink.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, raspberry liqueur (if using), lemon juice, and pomegranate juice. Shake vigorously to blend the flavors and chill the mixture.
Step 3: Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well chilled. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass, discarding the ice used for chilling.
Step 4: Top off the drink with ginger beer for a fizzy finish.
Step 5: Garnish with fresh pomegranate arils and dried rose petals if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

To make a mocktail, omit the tequila and raspberry liqueur. Use an additional 2-3 tablespoons of pomegranate juice, plus 1 tablespoon of apple cider. For extra zing, add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and brightness.
Adjust the ginger beer amount to your taste for milder or stronger fizz.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to prepare the mix in advance, store the shaken tequila, liqueur, lemon, and pomegranate juice mixture in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the ginger beer just before serving to keep the fizz. Leftovers should not be refrigerated once mixed with ginger beer.

How to Serve

Three clear stemmed glasses each hold a deep red cocktail with a large clear ice cube topped with a small dark red dried flower petal floating on top. The red liquid has small red seeds or bits suspended inside. The glasses are arranged on a dark surface, surrounded by white roses with green leaves laying around them. The background is softly out of focus with more white roses behind. The scene is lit with warm light highlighting the red drink and the delicate texture of the flowers. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different liquor instead of tequila?

Yes, you can substitute vodka or white rum for tequila if you prefer a different flavor profile. Each will change the character of the drink slightly.

What can I use instead of raspberry liqueur?

If you don’t have raspberry liqueur, you can leave it out or use a splash of raspberry syrup or other berry-flavored liqueurs for a similar taste.

Luna Ryder