TEA FOR TWO

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Being able to offer my dinner party guests both spirit-forward and spirit-free drink options has become one of my favorite creative outlets. The availability of high-quality, nonalcoholic spirits and botanical infusions has increased dramatically over the past few years, letting consumers safely extend their own happy hour and offer a serious, spirit-free option for their non-drinking friends.

Translation: no one has to miss out on the flavor or the fun.

Both of these drink recipes share the same flavor profile, balance and primary ingredients. Tart Granny Smith apple juice shines with either a botanical gin or a spirit-free infusion. Bright lemon and a touch of sweetness bring harmony while a pinch of matcha adds just the right amount of earthiness, resulting in a bright, refreshing, tea-centric cocktail. :

TEA FOR TWO SPIRIT-FORWARD VERSION

1 ½ oz The Heart Distillery gin

1 ¼ oz Granny Smith apples, freshly juiced

½ oz lemon juice, freshly squeezed

¾ oz simple syrup

½ tsp high-quality matcha

Mint sprig or apple slices, for garnish

1. In a mixing tin, combine the gin, apple juice, lemon juice, simple syrup and matcha.

2. Add ice, shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.

3. Add a sprig of fresh mint or even a couple of speared apple slices as a garnish.

TEA FOR TWO SPIRIT-FREE VERSION

1 ½ oz Seedlip Garden 108 non-alcoholic spirit

1 ¼ oz Granny Smith apples, freshly juiced

½ oz lemon juice, freshly squeezed

¾ oz simple syrup

¼ tsp high-quality matcha

Seltzer water, to top Mint sprig or apple slices, for garnish

1. In a mixing tin, combine the Seedlip Garden 108, apple juice, lemon juice, simple syrup and matcha.

2. Add ice, shake well and strain into a tall glass filled with ice.

3. Top with seltzer water, and add a sprig of fresh mint or even a couple of speared apple slices as a garnish.

Resist the urge to purchase pre-packaged, pasteurized juices for your cocktail or mocktail recipes. The extra elbow grease of juicing your own fruits and vegetables results in vibrant, aromatic and delicious drinks. Plus, you’ll never find fresh Granny Smith apple juice at the store!