Drinks

The Dark Rose Recipe

ByNoah Steele October 31, 2025October 31, 2025

Introduction

The Dark Rose is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines the tartness of pomegranate with the warmth of tequila and a hint of ginger. Perfect for a special occasion or a casual evening, this drink offers a beautiful balance of flavors and an elegant presentation.

Three clear glass cocktail glasses filled with a bright red drink, each containing a large clear ice cube topped with a small dark red dried flower petal. The red liquid inside the glasses is slightly bubbly with small red seeds or bits floating around. The glasses are placed on a surface with a white marbled texture, surrounded by pale pink to white roses with green leaves, some lying flat and some arranged loosely. The lighting highlights the shiny texture of the drink and the delicate petals of the flowers, creating a warm and inviting look. 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 the tequila, raspberry liqueur (if using), lemon juice, and pomegranate juice.

Step 3: Add ice to the shaker until it’s about halfway full, then shake vigorously to mix and chill the ingredients.
Step 4: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
Step 5: Top off the drink with 1/2 cup of ginger beer to add a spicy, effervescent finish.

Step 6: Garnish with pomegranate arils and, if desired, a few dried rose petals for a beautiful touch.

Tips & Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, omit the tequila and raspberry liqueur. Replace with an additional 2-3 tablespoons of pomegranate juice and 1 tablespoon of apple cider. Add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for a tangy zing.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed immediately for optimal fizz and flavor. If you need to prepare the mix ahead, keep the shaken tequila and juice mixture refrigerated for up to 24 hours, then add ginger beer and garnish just before serving.

How to Serve

Three tall clear glasses hold a bright red drink filled to near the top, each with a large square ice cube inside. Floating on the ice cubes are dark red dried flower petals. Small red seeds are scattered throughout the liquid, adding texture and depth. The glasses have thin stems and are sitting on a white marbled surface. Around the glasses, there are soft pale pink rose flowers with green leaves, some roses slightly wilted. The lighting creates warm, rich shadows and highlights the glossy texture of the drink. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of tequila?

Yes, mezcal or silver rum are good alternatives that complement the pomegranate and ginger flavors well.

What does the ginger beer add to the cocktail?

Ginger beer provides a spicy, bubbly element that balances the tartness of the pomegranate and lemon, giving the drink a refreshing and lively character.