Grapefruit Sage Tonic Mocktail Recipe
This refreshing mocktail combines the tartness of grapefruit with aromatic sage and bubbly tonic water for a sophisticated alcohol-free drink option.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Citrus juicer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Highball glass
- Ice cube tray
- Bar spoon
Ingredients
- 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice about ½ medium grapefruit
- 4-5 fresh sage leaves plus extra for garnish
- ½ oz honey simple syrup equal parts honey and hot water, cooled
- 4 oz tonic water
- Ice cubes
- Grapefruit wedge or twist for garnish
For best results, use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice rather than bottled options.
Instructions
- Prepare the sage: Place 4-5 sage leaves in the bottom of your cocktail shaker and gently muddle to release the oils.
- Add liquid ingredients: Pour grapefruit juice and honey simple syrup into the shaker.
- Add ice and shake: Fill the shaker halfway with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture: Use a fine mesh strainer to pour the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Add tonic water: Top with tonic water and stir gently with a bar spoon to combine.
- Garnish and serve: Add a grapefruit wedge and fresh sage leaf as garnish.
The mocktail is best served immediately while the tonic water is still fizzy.
Notes
This recipe can be easily adjusted to suit different tastes. For a sweeter drink, increase the honey simple syrup to ¾ oz.
Non-alcoholic gin alternatives can be added (½ oz) for complexity. Try infusing the simple syrup with sage for 30 minutes for a stronger herb flavor.
Store leftover sage leaves wrapped in damp paper towels in the refrigerator. They'll stay fresh for about one week.
For a make-ahead option, combine the grapefruit juice, muddled sage, and simple syrup up to 24 hours in advance, but add tonic water just before serving.