Every April, as the excitement of the Masters builds, one iconic cocktail blooms back into the spotlight — the Azalea, a true taste of spring at Augusta National. Named after the vibrant azalea blooms that line Augusta National’s fairways, this rosy-hued cocktail blends refreshing citrus and fruit with simple sophistication.

What Is an Azalea Cocktail?

Beloved by golf fans and brunch-goers alike, the Azalea is a light and refreshing drink made with vodka or gin, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and a touch of grenadine. It’s the unofficial drink of the Masters, and its delicate pink color pays homage to the azalea blossoms that define the tournament’s setting.

Azalea Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

●2 oz (60 ml) Vodka (or Gin for more complexity)

●2 oz (60 ml) Pineapple Juice (preferably freshly squeezed)

●1 oz (30 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice

●0.5 oz (15 ml) Grenadine (or homemade grenadine for better quality)

●Garnish: Lemon wheel, mint sprig, or even basil

Instructions

1.Chill Your Glass: Begin by chilling a coupe or martini glass with ice water. Set it aside.

2.Mix Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the vodka, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and grenadine. Add ice to fill the shaker halfway.

3.Shake: Shake the mixture well for about 15 seconds, ensuring everything is thoroughly chilled and mixed.

4.Strain: Discard the ice in your glass and strain the cocktail into your chilled glass.

5.Garnish: Optionally garnish with a lemon twist, mint leaves, or fresh basil to add an aromatic touch.

Enhance Your Azalea Cocktail

If you're looking to add a unique twist to the Azalea, here are some great ideas to elevate the drink.

Swap Vodka for Gin: Using gin instead of vodka adds herbal and botanical notes, which give the cocktail more complexity. London Dry Gin or citrus-forward gin are great options.

Herbal Infusions: Infuse the base spirit with herbal tea or even a hint of mint to complement the cocktail’s fruity profile.

Add Bitters: A dash of bitters can help balance the sweetness and add an extra layer of complexity.

Add Sparkle: Top with club soda or Prosecco for a bubbly Azalea Spritz.

Char Your Pineapple Juice: Lightly grill pineapple before juicing for a smoky-sweet twist.
Homemade Grenadine: For a more authentic flavor, use homemade grenadine made from pomegranate juice and sugar, which will bring out the natural fruitiness and add depth.

Fruit Variations: Replace pineapple juice with fresh mango or peach juice for a tropical twist. Alternatively, experiment with grapefruit juice for a more bitter-sweet balance.
Use an Aromatic Garnish: A mint sprig or basil leaf will add a refreshing aroma that perfectly complements the sweetness and citrus of the drink.

Other Variations of the Azalea Cocktail

Azalea Margarita: Swap the vodka for blanco tequila and add lime juice instead of lemon juice for a Mexican twist.

Azalea Mule: Replace the vodka with gin and top with ginger beer for a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule.

Tropical Azalea: Add a splash of coconut water or coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor that balances the pineapple juice.

Masters Flavor: Pair It with a Pimento Cheese Sandwich

At the Masters, nothing pairs better with an Azalea cocktail than the famous $1.50 pimento cheese sandwich — a Southern staple served on white bread. As Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller puts it, “It’s everything you could ask for,” combining comfort and nostalgia in every bite.

Ingredients:

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (white, yellow, or a mix)

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s or Hellmann’s)

1/4 cup diced pimentos (drained)

1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)

1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar or hot sauce (optional, for tang)

Salt and pepper to taste

Soft white sandwich bread (like Wonder Bread or Bunny Bread)

Instructions

1.Mix the Spread

 In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, vinegar or hot sauce, if using). Mix until smooth.

2.Add the Cheese

Fold in the shredded cheddar until fully incorporated. The texture should be thick and spreadable.

3.Assemble the Sandwich

Generously spread the pimento cheese mixture on a slice of soft white bread, top with another slice, and press gently.

4.Trim the Crusts (optional)

For a truly Augusta-style experience, trim the crusts and cut into halves or quarters.

Tips

Make ahead: Pimento cheese tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a little heat.

Serving suggestion: Pair with an Azalea cocktail for the ultimate Masters snack combo.

At Augusta National, this sandwich is sold for just $1.50, wrapped in unmistakable green cellophane, and has become a cult classic alongside the tournament itself.