Top Ginger Syrups for Cocktails and Drinks: Buying Guide

Whether you're a seasoned mixologist searching for a signature ingredient or simply a creative drink enthusiast, ginger syrup is a staple behind the bar. Spicy, warm, and just sweet enough, it's the perfect partner to elevate a cocktail, lemonade, or iced tea.

But with an overwhelming number of options on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Flavour profile, sugar content, ingredients… everything changes from one bottle to the next. Don't worry: this guide is here to help you find that hidden gem—the ginger syrup that perfectly suits your tastes and recipes.

By the Joybuy editorial team

How to Choose the Right Ginger Syrup

Before we dive into our selection, here are the key criteria to keep in mind to make the right choice.

1. Analyse the Ingredient List

The ingredient list is the first clue to a syrup's quality and character. A good natural ginger syrup should contain flavours extracted directly from the root. The base is typically a mix of sugar and water. Some products may include acidifiers like citric acid for preservation and flavour balance, or colourings like caramel to create a uniform appearance. Pay close attention to where sugar appears on the list: if it's the first ingredient, expect a product that is primarily sweet.

2. Evaluate the Concentration and Flavour Profile

Not all ginger syrups are created equal in terms of intensity. Some offer a mild, almost candied flavour, while others deliver a sharp, lingering spiciness. For professional use, bartenders primarily look for a ginger syrup with a consistent and pronounced taste to ensure uniformity in their cocktails. At home, a more versatile and less intense syrup will often be easier to measure and incorporate into your recipes.

3. Consider the Intended Use: Cocktails, Teas, or Lemonades

How you plan to use it is a deciding factor.

• For cocktails like the famous Moscow Mule, a syrup with a strong personality and a pronounced spiciness is often preferable to stand up to the other ingredients. This is where a good Moscow Mule syrup makes all the difference.
• For non-alcoholic drinks like iced teas or homemade lemonades, a syrup with a better balance of sugar and spice will create a refreshing beverage without overwhelming the palate.

Making your own ginger syrup is an option, but using a professional-quality syrup guarantees consistent flavour and is a significant time-saver.

Our Ginger Syrup Selection

We've reviewed several leading products on the market, basing our evaluation on their ingredients, flavour profile, and versatility.

GIFFARD Ginger Syrup 1L

What sets it apart Giffard, established in 1885, is a benchmark in the world of syrups and liqueurs. This syrup is made from pure sugar and natural ginger flavours, with no added preservatives. Its profile is classic and well-balanced, making it a reliable choice.

Pros

• Generous format: The 1L bottle is cost-effective and perfect for frequent use.
• Simple ingredients: Sugar, water, and natural ginger flavour.
• French craftsmanship: Renowned expertise.

Who is it for? Ideal for restaurant and bar professionals looking for a reliable, large-format product. It's also suitable for individuals who regularly use ginger syrup and appreciate an authentic yet controlled flavour.

MONIN Ginger Syrup 70 cl

What sets it apart MONIN is a brand favoured by bartenders worldwide. This syrup is known for its bold character. It delivers what the brand describes as a "bold and spicy kick of natural ginger root." It's a product designed to stand out in a mix.

Pros

• Pronounced intensity: Perfect for cocktails where ginger needs to be the star, making it an ideal Moscow Mule syrup or for a Penicillin.
• Professional quality: A benchmark in the world of cocktail ginger syrup.
• Spicy profile: Delivers a clean, lingering heat and spice.

Who is it for? Mixologists and discerning cocktail enthusiasts who want a powerful and identifiable ginger flavour. If you're looking to accurately replicate bar-quality cocktails at home, this is a top choice.

TEISSEIRE Ginger Syrup 70cl

What sets it apart From the Mathieu Teisseire range aimed at professionals, this syrup offers great versatility. Its composition includes glucose-fructose syrup, which gives it a specific texture and sweetness. Its taste is approachable, with a ginger note that is present but less dominant than some competitors.

Pros

• Versatility: Suitable for refreshing drinks as well as hot teas or desserts.
• Easy to measure: Its balanced profile makes it simple to use for everyday applications.
• Value for money: An attractive option for varied, family use.

Who is it for? Families and anyone looking for a multi-purpose ginger syrup to easily flavour everyday drinks, from lemonades to infusions.

Looking for Other Options?

Our selection highlights three distinct profiles to meet the most common needs. But the world of syrups is vast and full of flavours to spark your creativity. To explore other brands or syrups for your creations, feel free to browse our full catalogue.

Discover All Our Syrups & Concentrated Juices

Frequently Asked Questions About Ginger Syrup

1. What syrup should I use for a Moscow Mule?

For a Moscow Mule worthy of the name, choose a syrup with a pronounced spiciness that can stand up to the vodka and the acidity of the lime. A product like MONIN syrup, known for its intensity, is particularly well-suited for recreating the authentic taste of this cocktail.

2. How should I store ginger syrup after opening?

Store your syrup in a cool, dry place, away from light. Once the bottle is opened, place it in the refrigerator and consume it within the following weeks or months to preserve its full flavour. In any case, refer to the instructions on the packaging.

3. Can you make your own ginger syrup?

Yes, absolutely. Making your own syrup by infusing fresh ginger in a mix of water and sugar is quite simple and allows you to fully control the levels of sugar and spice. However, for professional use or for those aiming for perfect consistency, a commercial ginger syrup remains the most reliable and practical solution. It guarantees an identical flavour from one glass to the next, which is an essential criterion in mixology.