How it tastes
Yuzu first, then sake, then a lavender note that sits in the nose for the whole drink. The gin is structural underneath. The rose petals are decorative but they also add a faint perfume that the lavender pairs with naturally. The drink is delicate. Cold it should be, but not so cold the aromatics disappear. We've found about 4 degrees Celsius is the sweet spot.
Why we built it
Floral Bloom started as a private experiment to see if we could build a cocktail that read as floral without using elderflower (the easy floral default). Lavender was the first ingredient we landed on. The sake was the surprise. Sake's natural rice-floor sweetness sits beautifully with lavender in a way that gin alone doesn't. It became one of our seasonal pours immediately. We rotate it on and off depending on what fresh florals we can get.
Where to drink it
On request at Soluble Solids in SS2 Petaling Jaya. Lavender syrup is on the bar most weeks. Yuzu juice is harder to source consistently in Malaysia, so we sometimes substitute fresh lemon. Reserve a table for the easiest seat.
Frequently asked questions
What glass is the Floral Bloom served in?
A chilled coupe, shaken once and double-strained, with three small rose petals floated on the surface. The shallow bowl is the photograph; the petals do not work as garnish in a tall format. Serve cold but not aggressively so; about 4 degrees Celsius keeps the aromatics alive. A nick and nora also works.
Can I substitute the yuzu?
Fresh lemon is the easiest swap and what we use when yuzu is out of stock in Malaysia. Calamansi works but pushes the drink more tropical. Lime is too sharp and clashes with the lavender. A 50:50 lemon-grapefruit mix approximates yuzu's character. Bottled yuzu juice is acceptable but loses some brightness.
How strong is the Floral Bloom?
Medium. About 16 to 19 percent ABV in the glass after shake-dilution. The 30ml of junmai sake (15 to 17 percent) and 30ml of gin (40 percent) split the alcohol load; the lavender syrup and citrus dilute the perception. Drinks delicate and aromatic; the floral notes hide the proof, so pace yourself.
Where can I order a Floral Bloom in PJ or KL?
At Soluble Solids (SS2, 50-1 Jalan SS2/24, Wed-Sun 18:00 to 01:00, WhatsApp +60 11-1682 8651). This is the bar where the drink lives, rotated on and off depending on which fresh florals we can get. Dissolved Solids in Damansara Kim will pour on advance request, WhatsApp +60 11-4008 7607.
What food pairs with the Floral Bloom?
Japanese and light Asian. Sashimi, nigiri, chirashi, tempura, scallop crudo, salt-grilled fish. Also works with mild cheese (burrata, mozzarella, fresh chevre). The yuzu-and-rice-floor profile rhymes with Japanese food specifically. Avoid heavy red meat or strong cheese; the lavender disappears.