The US Masters has many fine food and drink traditions, but the Azalea cocktail recipe is the most famous. It’s a blushing pink gin drink infused with tropical pineapple and balanced with lemon juice and grenadine. Named after the 13th hole and Georgia’s state flower, the Azalea cocktail is enjoyed by patrons every year at the tournament. Even if you’re not heading to this year’s Masters, you can still enjoy a Masters Azalea cocktail recipe courtesy of your friends at the Mixer.
Azalea Cocktail Recipe
PREP TIME 5 min
QUICK TIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
01
Pour the gin, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and grenadine into a cocktail shaker
02
Add a scoop of ice then close the shaker and shake for 20 seconds to chill
03
Strain into a highball glass with ice
04
Garnish with a lemon slice and serve
History of the Azalea cocktail
Like many cocktails, the origins of the Azalea cocktail recipe are fuzzy at best. If we had to guess, we’d say it was probably first mixed at one of the clubhouse or VIP bars. What we do know for sure, however, is that the Masters just wouldn’t be the same without the blushing pink cocktail.
Variations
Gin or vodka are the traditional spirits for the Azalea cocktail recipe, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Rum will add a spicy layer to the cocktail and work beautifully with the pineapple juice. Bourbon will give you a smooth and sweet sipping experience, or try rye whiskey for a peppery bite.
When to serve
The Azalea is meant to be enjoyed outdoors, and its natural habitat is the golf clubhouse. Serve them cold, or mix them in pitchers if you’re catering to a crowd. To make an Azalea cocktail pitcher recipe, use our handy scaling tool, then mix everything but the ice in a bottle or pitcher. Chill the mixture until you’re ready, and then just add ice and serve when your guests are ready to tee off.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Southern generosity should be the order of the day at your Masters party. Serve southern classics like egg salad sandwiches, fried chicken, and barbecue, and don’t forget the signature tournament sandwich—the pimento cheese. Serve your feast with plenty of Azaleas to wash it all down with, and you’ve got yourself a Masters viewing party!
The Azalea cocktail recipe is a fruit-forward with zesty botanicals and floral flavors from the gin.
