Looking for a refreshing drink without alcohol? This citrus and herb mocktail brings together sweet grapefruit juice and aromatic rosemary in a fizzy tonic blend.
The combination creates a bright, bubbly drink that tastes complex and sophisticated while staying alcohol-free.
The fresh rosemary adds a subtle pine note that pairs well with grapefruit’s natural tartness.
The tonic water gives it an effervescent quality perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want something special to sip.
This easy recipe takes just 5 minutes to make and needs only 4 basic ingredients.
The mocktail works great for brunch, parties, or as an evening refresher when you want the experience of a craft cocktail without the alcohol.
Grapefruit Rosemary Tonic Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large cocktail glass or highball glass
Ingredients
For the Rosemary Simple Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 fresh rosemary sprigs
For the Mocktail:
- 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1 oz rosemary simple syrup
- 4 oz tonic water
- Ice cubes
- Grapefruit slice and rosemary sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Make the rosemary simple syrup by combining water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves.
- Add rosemary sprigs to the syrup and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 30 minutes.
- Strain the syrup and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a grapefruit slice and fresh rosemary sprig.
Notes
Tasting Notes
This mocktail combines bright citrus and herbal flavors in a refreshing blend. The grapefruit brings a natural tartness while the rosemary adds a subtle pine-like essence.
The first sip reveals a crisp, clean taste. Bubbles from the tonic water create a light, fizzy texture that dances on the tongue.
Sweet notes balance the grapefruit’s natural bitterness. The drink stays vibrant without being too sour or overwhelming.
The rosemary aroma enhances each sip. Its gentle woodsy scent pairs perfectly with the citrus, creating a sophisticated non-alcoholic drink.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Primary: Tart grapefruit, herbal rosemary
- Secondary: Light sweetness, mineral tonic
- Finish: Clean, crisp, slightly bitter
The aftertaste is clean and refreshing. A mild bitterness lingers briefly, similar to what you’d find in a classic gin and tonic.
This drink works well as both a morning refresher and an evening mocktail. The flavors stay bright and distinct when served cold with plenty of ice.
Substitute
You can swap out ingredients in this mocktail while keeping its refreshing taste.
Replace grapefruit juice with orange juice or blood orange juice for a sweeter drink.
No rosemary? Try fresh thyme or sage instead. These herbs add similar earthy notes to the drink.
Tonic water can be switched with sparkling water or club soda.
The drink will be less bitter but still bubbly and bright.
Other citrus options:
- Pomelo juice
- Meyer lemon juice
- Tangerine juice
For a different twist, use honey syrup or agave nectar instead of simple syrup.
This changes the sweetness level while keeping the drink balanced.
Fresh mint leaves work well as a garnish if rosemary sprigs aren’t available.
The mint adds a cool, fresh aroma to each sip.
Remember to adjust the amounts when using substitutes.
Some ingredients may need more or less to match the original taste.
