The White Linen cocktail is perfect for summer sipping. It’s made with a refreshing combination of gin, elderflower liqueur, and cucumber.

If you’re looking for the perfect cocktail to enjoy at a garden party or outdoor gathering, the White Linen is it! This drink is equally delicious and refreshing because it blends botanical gin and elderflower with crisp cucumber. It’s a simple cocktail, but tastes phenomenal.

White Linen cocktail in a coupe glass with a cucumber ribbon garnish in front of hydrangeas, cucumbers, and lemons.

The History of the White Linen

The White Linen cocktail is relatively new to the mixed drink scene. It was first created in 2008 by bartender Rene Dominguez during a cocktail contest in Sacramento, California. It quickly became the “signature drink of Sacramento” and appeared in cocktail bars throughout the area. From there it spread to the rest of California and bars throughout the country.

The original White Linen cocktail recipe is made with gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh cucumber, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda. It’s served over ice in a tall, narrow glass. For this recipe, I omitted the additional sugar and served it in a chilled coupe glass. Whichever way you enjoy the drink, the White Linen Cocktail is the perfect botanical beverage.

Ingredients for a White Linen Cocktail

Gin – This spirit is made from juniper berries and has a strong botanical flavor. The spirit pairs best with citrus and sweet juices.
Elderflower Liqueur – This liqueur is sweet and slightly floral with notes of pear, peach, and flowers. It is a slightly thick liqueur and pairs well with gin in cocktails. The most popular brand of elderflower liqueur is St Germain, but there are many other brands as well.
Cucumber – The crisp, cool taste of fresh cucumbers is the star of this cocktail. It complements the gin and elderflower perfectly. The flavor is surprisingly strong and a little bit of cucumber goes a long way.
Lemon Juice – Add brightness and acidity to the cocktail with a bit of fresh lemon juice. It helps balance the flavors of the cocktail.
Soda – Top the White Linen off with a bit of club soda or soda water. This dilutes the drink and adds bubbles.

How to Make a White Linen Cocktail

The crisp blend of gin, cucumber, and elderflower liqueur creates a stunning cocktail that is perfect for sipping outdoors on a warm evening.

Step 1 – Gently muddle cucumber slices in the bottom of a cocktail shaker with lemon juice. Muddling releases the juices and flavor of the cucumber.

Step 2 – Next, add gin and elderflower liqueur to the shaker.

Step 3 – Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Then firmly place the lid on the cocktail shaker. Shake for 30 seconds to combine the cocktail ingredients and chill them.

Step 4 – Use a mesh strainer to double strain the cocktail into a chilled glass.

Step 5 – Top with a few ounces of club soda and garnish with a cucumber ribbon or a lemon wheel.

What Type of Glass Do I Use?

Collins Glass – These glasses are similar to a highball glass, but are taller and more narrow. Usually, a Collins glass is used for drinks with more than one mixer that is served over ice. A traditional White Linen is served in a Collins glass.
Coupe Glass – A coupe glass is a stemmed glass with a large bowl and wide mouth. This style allows the cocktail to breathe. The drinker also smells more of the ingredients, which enhances the flavor. Chill a coupe glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring the cocktail into it.

Can I Batch This Cocktail?

Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients for the cocktail by the number of guests you have. Combine everything, except for the soda, in a large pitcher or jar. Pour out each glass and top with soda individually.

Try Another Delicious Cocktail Recipe