Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a low growing, perennial evergreen shrub with lavender flowers that is native to the Mediterranean. For thousands of years, sage has been used for its medicinal qualities, but it is probably best known culinarily for being essential for poultry, pork, and bread stuffings. 

Sage has a gorgeous aroma - it is at the same time mysteriously musky, woody, and fern-like, with notes of menthol, white pepper  and warm decay. Sage should be used sparingly as it can overpower dishes (or cocktails), but a brief roll of the leaf gently in the fingers can help release the essential oils. 

Some popular cocktails containing Sage

  • The Soothsayer — Bourbon, Allspice Dram, Maple syrup, Meyer lemon juice, Sage, Nutmeg
  • Smoke on the Beach (Jim Kearns) — Blanco tequila, Mezcal, Herbal liqueur, Pineapple juice, Lime juice, Cane syrup, Sage, Black pepper
  • Lush Life — Rye, Genepy, Falernum, Lemon juice, Sage
  • Pig's Punch — Rye, Bénédictine, Orange bitters, Apple cider, Lemon juice, Simple syrup, Sage
  • Marquee Cocktail — Gin, Aperol, Lemon juice, Simple syrup, Sage, Salt
  • Pink Flag — Gin, Crème Yvette, Lemon juice, Pineapple juice, Orgeat, Sage
  • Why Not — Bourbon, Triple sec, Lemon, Lemon juice, Maple syrup, Sage
  • Port of Haifa — Cuban rum, Ruby Port, Lemon juice, Simple syrup, Sage, Smoke
  • Oaxacan Smash — Tequila, Mezcal, Agave syrup, Lime, Sage
  • Sage Advice — Gin, Aperol, Aromatized wine, Peychaud's Bitters, Soda water, Plain shrub, Lemon juice, Sage
Explore more Sage cocktails.