Last month, my friend Sarah served a Seedlip Garden Tonic at her dinner party, and I watched guests lean in, surprised by how complex a non-alcoholic drink could taste. You’ve probably noticed more people skipping alcohol these days, whether they’re cutting back or simply want something interesting that won’t leave them foggy the next morning. These eleven Seedlip recipes deliver the sophistication you’d expect from craft cocktails, with layers of botanical flavor that make you forget about the missing spirits.
Garden Tonic With Cucumber and Basil
The Garden Tonic is a revitalizing non-alcoholic cocktail that showcases the botanical complexity of Seedlip Garden 108, the world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit.
This herbaceous drink combines the pea and hay notes of Seedlip with crisp cucumber and aromatic basil, creating a sophisticated beverage that’s perfect for warm afternoons or as an elegant aperitif. The combination of fresh ingredients and premium tonic water elevates this simple recipe into something truly special.
This drink celebrates the garden-fresh flavors that make Seedlip Garden 108 distinctive, with each element complementing the spirit’s natural herbal character. The cucumber adds a cooling crispness while the basil provides a sweet, slightly peppery note that harmonizes beautifully with the Seedlip’s botanical blend.
It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a complex, adult beverage without the alcohol.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip Garden 108
- 4 oz premium tonic water
- 3 thin slices cucumber
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves
- Ice cubes
- 1 cucumber ribbon for garnish
- 1 basil sprig for garnish
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Instructions
Fill a large wine glass or copa glass with ice cubes.
Add the cucumber slices and basil leaves to the glass, gently pressing them against the side with a bar spoon to release their oils without tearing.
Pour the Seedlip Garden 108 over the ice, then top with the tonic water, pouring slowly to preserve carbonation.
Give the drink a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
Thread the cucumber ribbon onto a cocktail pick or drape it over the rim of the glass, and add the basil sprig as a final garnish.
Tips
Use a high-quality tonic water such as Fever-Tree or Q Tonic to guarantee the botanical flavors of the Seedlip aren’t overwhelmed by sweetness.
When muddling the basil and cucumber, be gentle—bruising rather than shredding the herbs prevents bitterness from being released into the drink.
The drink is best served immediately after preparation to maintain the tonic’s effervescence and the fresh aroma of the herbs.
For an extra layer of flavor, chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before preparing the cocktail.
Spiced Citrus Spritz
The Spiced Citrus Spritz is a warming yet invigorating non-alcoholic cocktail that highlights the aromatic spice notes of Seedlip Spice 94. This sophisticated drink balances the allspice and cardamom character of the spirit with bright citrus flavors and sparkling wine alternative, creating a celebratory beverage suitable for any occasion.
The interplay between warm spices and zesty citrus makes this spritz equally enjoyable in cooler months when you crave something comforting, or during summer when the effervescence provides welcome rejuvenation.
This recipe transforms the classic spritz format into an alcohol-free experience that doesn’t compromise on complexity or elegance. The combination of fresh grapefruit and lemon juices provides a tart backbone that complements Seedlip Spice 94’s botanical blend, while the sparkling element adds festivity and lightness.
It’s a perfect choice for brunch gatherings, afternoon celebrations, or as a sophisticated alternative to traditional cocktails at evening events.
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Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip Spice 94
- 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 3 oz non-alcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- 1 grapefruit wheel for garnish
- 1 star anise for garnish
- 3-4 whole allspice berries
Instructions
Add the allspice berries to a wine glass or coupe and gently press them with a muddler to release their aromatic oils. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
In a cocktail shaker, combine the Seedlip Spice 94, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well chilled. Strain the mixture over the prepared ice in the glass.
Top with the non-alcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling water, pouring gently down the side of the glass to maintain carbonation. Give the drink one gentle stir to integrate the ingredients.
Garnish with the grapefruit wheel and float the star anise on top for an aromatic and visual finishing touch.
Tips
Freshly squeezed citrus juice makes a significant difference in this recipe—bottled juice will produce a flatter, less vibrant flavor profile.
If you find the drink too tart, adjust the simple syrup to 0.75 oz, but avoid making it too sweet as this will mask the delicate spice notes of the Seedlip.
For a more intense spice character, muddle the allspice berries more aggressively or add a light dash of aromatic bitters if you’re comfortable with the trace amounts of alcohol they contain.
The drink should be consumed shortly after preparation to preserve the sparkling wine’s bubbles and the bright citrus flavors.
Grove 42 Paloma
The Grove 42 Paloma reimagines the beloved Mexican classic as a sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktail that captures the essence of a traditional Paloma while showcasing the bright citrus notes of Seedlip Grove 42. This invigorating drink combines the pea, hay, spearmint, and rosemary botanicals of Grove 42 with the distinctive bitterness of grapefruit and the effervescence of sparkling water, creating a complex yet approachable beverage.
The result is a drink that feels both familiar and innovative, offering the same thirst-quenching qualities as its tequila-based counterpart while introducing new layers of herbaceous complexity. This recipe celebrates the natural affinity between citrus and herbal flavors, with the Grove 42 providing an unexpected twist on what grapefruit lovers have come to expect from a Paloma.
The addition of lime juice brightens the profile, while a salt rim adds the classic savory element that makes this style of drink so crave-worthy. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, enjoying a sunny afternoon, or simply seeking a sophisticated alcohol-free option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, the Grove 42 Paloma delivers rejuvenation with genuine character and depth.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip Grove 42
- 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz agave syrup or simple syrup
- 2 oz sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Coarse sea salt for rim
- 1 grapefruit wedge for garnish
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary for garnish
- Lime wheel for rimming glass
Instructions
Prepare the glass by running a lime wheel around the rim, then dipping the moistened edge into coarse sea salt to create an even salt rim on half or all of the glass, depending on preference. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
In a cocktail shaker, combine the Seedlip Grove 42, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice, then shake well for 10-12 seconds until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
Top with sparkling water, pouring gently to preserve carbonation. Stir once briefly to combine all elements. Garnish with the grapefruit wedge and a fresh rosemary sprig, lightly slapping the rosemary between your hands before adding it to release its aromatic oils.
Tips
For the best flavor, use ruby red or pink grapefruit rather than white grapefruit, as the sweeter varieties balance better with the botanical profile of Grove 42. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the agave syrup to 0.25 oz or omit it entirely if your grapefruit is particularly sweet.
The salt rim is traditional but optional—if you find salted rims overwhelming, salt only half the rim so you can control how much salt flavor you get with each sip. For an extra layer of complexity, add two or three drops of grapefruit bitters before topping with sparkling water, though this will introduce a minimal amount of alcohol.
This drink is best served immediately while the carbonation is at its peak.
Herbal Garden Collins
The Herbal Garden Collins transforms the classic Tom Collins into a vibrant alcohol-free experience using Seedlip Garden 108, which brings its distinctive pea, hay, spearmint, rosemary, and thyme botanicals to this timeless highball. This revitalizing cocktail maintains the essential balance of citrus, sweetness, and effervescence that has made the Collins family of drinks beloved for generations, while the Garden 108 adds an unexpected herbaceous depth that evokes the sensation of walking through a summer herb garden.
The result is a drink that feels both nostalgic and contemporary, offering sophisticated complexity without alcohol while delivering the same crisp, thirst-quenching satisfaction as the original.
This recipe highlights the natural synergy between fresh herbs and citrus, with the Garden 108’s green, vegetal notes complementing the brightness of lemon juice perfectly. The addition of cucumber adds a cooling element that enhances the garden-fresh character of the drink, while elderflower cordial or simple syrup provides just enough sweetness to balance the tartness without overwhelming the delicate botanical flavors.
Whether you’re serving brunch guests, unwinding after a long day, or seeking an elegant alcohol-free option that holds its own alongside traditional cocktails, the Herbal Garden Collins delivers revitalization with genuine sophistication and botanical intrigue.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip Garden 108
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 oz elderflower cordial or simple syrup
- 3 thin cucumber slices
- 3 oz sparkling water or club soda
- Ice cubes
- 1 lemon wheel for garnish
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme for garnish
- 1 sprig of fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
In a cocktail shaker, muddle two cucumber slices gently to release their juice without pulverizing them into mush. Add the Seedlip Garden 108, fresh lemon juice, and elderflower cordial along with ice, then shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until well-chilled.
Fill a Collins or highball glass with fresh ice cubes and strain the mixture over the ice. Top with sparkling water, pouring slowly to maintain carbonation. Stir gently once to integrate all components.
Garnish with the remaining cucumber slice, lemon wheel, and fresh thyme and mint sprigs, gently slapping the herbs between your palms before adding them to release their aromatic oils and enhance the drink’s garden-fresh character.
Tips
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled for the brightest, most vibrant flavor, as the botanical subtleties of Garden 108 can be overshadowed by the artificial notes in pre-made juice.
If elderflower cordial is unavailable, a quality simple syrup works well, though you may want to add a small pinch of dried elderflowers or a few fresh basil leaves during muddling to maintain the floral complexity.
For a more pronounced cucumber flavor, add an extra slice or two during the muddling stage, and consider using English cucumbers rather than standard varieties as they’ve fewer seeds and a more delicate taste.
The drink benefits from very cold temperatures, so guarantee your sparkling water is well-chilled before adding it, and consider storing your Collins glass in the freezer for a few minutes before building the cocktail to keep everything crisp and revitalizing from first sip to last.
Seedlip Negroni Sbagliato
The Negroni Sbagliato, whose name translates to “mistaken Negroni,” was born in Milan when a bartender accidentally grabbed prosecco instead of gin, creating a lighter, more effervescent variation of the classic Italian aperitivo.
This alcohol-free interpretation captures the spirit of that happy accident while maintaining the sophisticated bitter-sweet balance that makes the Sbagliato such a beloved pre-dinner drink. Using Seedlip Spice 94 to replicate the aromatic complexity traditionally provided by gin, combined with non-alcoholic vermouth alternatives and a quality non-alcoholic sparkling wine, this version delivers the same eye-opening bitterness and celebratory sparkle that has made the Sbagliato a favorite among those seeking something less spirit-forward than a traditional Negroni.
This alcohol-free adaptation proves that the Negroni Sbagliato’s appeal lies not in its alcohol content but in its masterful interplay of bitter, sweet, and sparkling elements. The Seedlip Spice 94, with its warm notes of allspice, cardamom, and oak, provides an aromatic backbone that stands up beautifully to the bitter components, while the effervescence adds a festive quality that makes this drink feel special enough for any celebration.
Perfect as an aperitivo to stimulate the appetite before dinner or as an elegant alternative during social gatherings, this Seedlip Negroni Sbagliato offers all the Continental sophistication of the original with none of the alcohol.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Seedlip Spice 94
- 1.5 oz non-alcoholic sweet vermouth or bitter aperitif
- 2 oz non-alcoholic sparkling wine or prosecco
- Ice cubes
- 1 orange slice for garnish
- 1 fresh rosemary sprig for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Fill a rocks glass or wine glass with ice cubes to chill it thoroughly.
Pour the Seedlip Spice 94 and non-alcoholic sweet vermouth directly into the glass over the ice. Stir gently for 5-7 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients without diluting them excessively.
Top with the non-alcoholic sparkling wine, pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the bubbles and carbonation. Give the drink one final gentle stir to integrate all components while maintaining effervescence.
Garnish with an orange slice, either perched on the rim or floated on top of the drink, and add a sprig of fresh rosemary if desired for an aromatic herbal accent that complements the Spice 94’s warm botanicals.
Tips
Choose a non-alcoholic vermouth or bitter aperitif with genuine bitter qualities rather than overly sweet alternatives, as the characteristic bitterness is essential to capturing the Sbagliato’s authentic flavor profile.
Brands like Lyre’s Aperitif Rosso or Ghia work particularly well in this application. The quality of your non-alcoholic sparkling wine matters greatly—select one that’s genuinely dry rather than sweet to maintain the proper balance, and always add it last to preserve maximum carbonation.
For an extra layer of aromatic complexity, express an orange peel over the drink before adding the garnish, allowing the citrus oils to settle on the surface and perfume each sip.
Spice 94 Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned stands as one of the most iconic and enduring cocktails in the canon of mixology, a drink so foundational that it represents the very definition of what a cocktail should be: spirit, sugar, water, and bitters. This alcohol-free interpretation using Seedlip Spice 94 honors that heritage while proving that the soul of an Old Fashioned lies not merely in the whiskey but in the careful balance of flavors and the ritual of its preparation.
The Spice 94, with its rich aromatic profile of allspice, cardamom, oak, and cascarilla bark, naturally echoes the warm, complex character of a fine bourbon or rye, making it an ideal foundation for this reimagined classic that delivers the same contemplative, sipping experience as its spirited predecessor.
What makes this Seedlip Old Fashioned particularly compelling is how it captures the essence of the original while standing confidently on its own merits. The aromatic bitters amplify the botanical complexity of the Spice 94, while the simple syrup provides just enough sweetness to round out the flavors without masking the nuanced spice notes.
The slow dilution from the large ice cube is essential, gradually opening up the drink’s flavors in the same meditative way a traditional Old Fashioned evolves in the glass. This is a drink for those who appreciate the ceremony and sophistication of classic cocktail culture, offering a moment of refinement whether you’re unwinding after a long day or entertaining guests who value both tradition and innovation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip Spice 94
- 1 tsp simple syrup or demerara syrup
- 2-3 dashes aromatic bitters
- 1 large ice cube or sphere
- 1 orange peel
- 1 cocktail cherry for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Add the simple syrup and aromatic bitters to a rocks glass or Old Fashioned glass. Add the Seedlip Spice 94 and stir gently to combine the ingredients.
Place one large ice cube or sphere into the glass, then stir slowly for 20-30 seconds to chill and lightly dilute the drink, allowing the flavors to meld and open up.
Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a firm twist, then run the peel around the rim of the glass before either dropping it into the drink or draping it over the edge as garnish. Add a cocktail cherry if desired for a traditional finishing touch.
Tips
The quality of your ice matters greatly in an Old Fashioned, as this is a drink meant to be sipped slowly. Use the largest, clearest ice cube you can to minimize dilution while keeping the drink properly chilled.
If you don’t have large ice molds, regular ice cubes will work, but expect a slightly more diluted result. When expressing the orange peel, make sure to twist it skin-side down over the drink so the essential oils spray onto the surface—you should see a fine mist and may even notice the oils slightly igniting if near a flame.
For added depth, some prefer to use demerara or rich simple syrup instead of regular simple syrup, which contributes a subtle molasses note that complements the Spice 94’s warm botanicals beautifully.
Garden Gimlet With Fresh Lime
The Gimlet has long been celebrated as one of the most elegant and straightforward cocktails, a perfect study in balance where the botanical brightness of gin meets the sharp, citrusy punch of lime. This alcohol-free interpretation using Seedlip Garden 108 transforms the classic into something altogether more verdant and invigorating, while maintaining the same crisp, clean character that has made the Gimlet a favorite among cocktail purists for over a century.
Garden 108, with its carefully composed blend of peas, hay, spearmint, rosemary, and thyme, brings an herbaceous complexity that complements fresh lime juice in ways that traditional gin cannot, creating layers of garden-fresh flavor that feel simultaneously familiar and entirely new. This isn’t merely a substitute for the original but a reimagining that celebrates the possibilities of non-alcoholic mixology.
What elevates this Garden Gimlet beyond a simple lime and botanical mixer combination is the emphasis on fresh ingredients and proper technique. The use of freshly squeezed lime juice is absolutely non-negotiable, as bottled juice simply can’t provide the bright, zesty quality that makes a Gimlet sing.
The simple syrup acts as a bridge between the botanical notes of the Garden 108 and the acidity of the lime, creating a harmonious trinity of flavors that feels both invigorating and sophisticated. This is the perfect drink for warm afternoons, pre-dinner aperitifs, or any moment when you want something that delivers the complexity and refinement of a craft cocktail without the alcohol, proving that mindful drinking need not sacrifice flavor or experience.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip Garden 108
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Ice cubes
- 1 lime wheel or fresh herbs (mint or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
Add the Seedlip Garden 108, freshly squeezed lime juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the shaker becomes very cold and frost forms on the exterior, ensuring proper dilution and temperature.
Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass or a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, depending on your preference for serving style. Garnish with a thin lime wheel placed on the rim of the glass, or for a more herbaceous presentation, add a small sprig of fresh mint or rosemary that complements the botanical profile of the Garden 108.
Tips
The ratio of lime juice to simple syrup can be adjusted to suit your personal taste, with some preferring a more tart profile by reducing the syrup to 1/4 oz or increasing it to 3/4 oz for those who prefer a sweeter drink.
Always taste your lime juice before making the cocktail, as limes can vary greatly in acidity and sweetness depending on the season and variety, which may require minor adjustments to your syrup amount.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider using an herb-infused simple syrup such as basil or thyme that echoes the botanical notes in the Garden 108, or rim half the glass with flaky sea salt for a savory twist that enhances the herbaceous qualities of the drink.
Grove 42 Martini
The Martini stands as perhaps the most iconic cocktail in history, a symbol of sophistication and refinement that has endured through countless variations and reinterpretations. This non-alcoholic version using Seedlip Grove 42 captures the essence of what makes a Martini so compelling: the interplay of botanical complexity, the crystalline clarity of presentation, and that ineffable quality of elegance in a glass.
Grove 42, with its masterful blend of orange, lemongrass, ginger, and lemon peel, brings a citrus-forward character that stands beautifully on its own while still honoring the structural integrity of the classic Martini format. The result is a drink that feels both timeless and contemporary, offering the ritual and sophistication of martini culture without the alcohol, perfect for those who want to participate in the ceremony of cocktail hour with complete clarity.
What distinguishes this Grove 42 Martini from other non-alcoholic interpretations is its commitment to the minimalist philosophy that defines the traditional Martini. Rather than attempting to mask the absence of alcohol with excessive sweetness or elaborate garnishes, this recipe relies on the quality of its primary ingredient and the precision of its preparation.
The addition of dry vermouth replacement or a small amount of citrus provides just enough supporting flavor to enhance the Grove 42’s natural complexity without overwhelming it. This is a drink for those who appreciate subtlety and nuance, who understand that sometimes the most impressive cocktails are the ones that appear simplest but require the most careful attention to balance, temperature, and technique.
Ingredients
- 2.5 oz Seedlip Grove 42
- 1/2 oz dry vermouth (non-alcoholic) or blanc vermouth alternative
- 1/4 oz fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Ice cubes for stirring
- Lemon peel or orange peel for garnish
- Optional: 1 bar spoon of olive brine for a “dirty” variation
Instructions
Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes and add the Seedlip Grove 42, non-alcoholic vermouth, and lemon juice if using. Stir gently for 20-30 seconds using a bar spoon in a smooth, circular motion to properly chill and dilute the mixture without aerating it, as stirring rather than shaking maintains the clarity and silky texture that defines a proper Martini.
Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass or coupe that has been pre-chilled in the freezer for at least 15 minutes. Express the oils from a fresh lemon or orange peel over the surface of the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a firm twist, then either drop the peel into the drink or run it around the rim before discarding, depending on your preference.
Tips
The temperature of your martini glass makes an enormous difference in the final drinking experience, so always chill your glassware in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving, or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink.
When stirring, resist the urge to over-dilute; the goal is to chill the mixture thoroughly while adding just enough water to soften the botanicals without making the drink watery. For those who prefer a “dirty” variation, add a bar spoon of high-quality olive brine to the mixing glass before stirring, which adds a savory complexity that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes of Grove 42.
Experiment with the ratio of Seedlip to vermouth alternative to find your perfect balance, keeping in mind that the traditional Martini has evolved from equal parts to increasingly spirit-forward ratios over the decades.
Botanical Mule With Ginger Beer
The Moscow Mule has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in recent years, with its signature copper mug and invigorating ginger-forward profile making it a staple of modern cocktail culture. This non-alcoholic interpretation using Seedlip botanicals transforms the classic mule into a sophisticated, spirit-free experience that loses none of the original’s zingy appeal.
The combination of Seedlip’s carefully crafted botanical distillates with high-quality ginger beer creates layers of complexity that rival any traditional mule, while the bright acidity of fresh lime juice provides the essential counterpoint that makes this drink so revitalizing balanced. Whether you choose the herbaceous Garden 108, the citrus-bright Grove 42, or the aromatic Spice 94, each Seedlip variety brings its own unique character to this versatile template, allowing you to customize the drink to your mood and preferences.
What makes the Botanical Mule particularly appealing is its accessibility and crowd-pleasing nature. Unlike some cocktails that require an educated palate to appreciate, the mule’s straightforward flavor profile—spicy ginger, tart lime, and aromatic botanicals—creates immediate sensory satisfaction while still offering enough depth to reward closer attention.
The effervescence of the ginger beer adds a lively, celebratory quality that makes this drink appropriate for everything from casual weekend brunches to elegant evening gatherings. This is a drink that demonstrates how non-alcoholic cocktails can stand proudly alongside their spirited counterparts, offering equal measures of invigoration, complexity, and visual appeal without any compromise in flavor or experience.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip (Garden 108, Grove 42, or Spice 94)
- 4-5 oz premium ginger beer (adjust to taste)
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint sprig for garnish
- Lime wheel or wedge for garnish
- Optional: candied ginger for garnish
Instructions
Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice cubes, creating a bed that will keep the drink properly chilled throughout the drinking experience. Add the Seedlip and fresh lime juice to the ice-filled vessel, then top with ginger beer, pouring slowly to preserve carbonation and prevent overflow.
Give the mixture a gentle stir with a bar spoon, just enough to integrate the ingredients without dissipating the effervescence that makes the mule so invigorating. Gently clap the mint sprig between your hands to release its aromatic oils before placing it in the drink as garnish, and add a lime wheel to the rim or drop a lime wedge into the glass for both visual appeal and the option for guests to add extra citrus as desired.
Tips
The quality of your ginger beer will greatly impact the final result, so seek out brands with real ginger and assertive spice rather than overly sweet commercial options. For a spicier kick, muddle a thin slice of fresh ginger in the glass before adding ice and other ingredients.
If using Spice 94, the drink takes on warm, allspice-forward notes that pair beautifully with the ginger; Grove 42 creates a brighter, more citrus-driven profile; while Garden 108 offers an herbaceous, garden-fresh character. The traditional copper mug isn’t just for show—it keeps the drink colder longer and adds a pleasant metallic touch to the rim that enhances the drinking experience, though any glass will work in its absence.
Spice 94 Manhattan
The Manhattan stands as one of cocktail history‘s most elegant and enduring creations, a drink that embodies the sophistication of classic mixology with its perfect balance of spirit, sweetness, and aromatic complexity. This non-alcoholic reinterpretation harnesses the warm, aromatic qualities of Seedlip Spice 94—with its rich notes of allspice, cardamom, and oak—to recreate the Manhattan’s signature depth and character without the whiskey. The addition of quality sweet vermouth (either non-alcoholic or traditional, depending on your preference) and aromatic bitters creates a remarkably faithful homage to the original, proving that the essence of this beloved cocktail lies not solely in alcohol content but in the careful orchestration of complementary flavors.
The result is a drink that captures the contemplative, after-dinner quality of a traditional Manhattan while remaining completely accessible to those avoiding alcohol.
What distinguishes this Spice 94 Manhattan from simpler non-alcoholic offerings is its commitment to complexity and nuance. The layered spice profile of Seedlip Spice 94 provides a foundation robust enough to stand up to the sweet vermouth’s botanical richness, while the bitters add that vital aromatic punctuation that elevates the drink from good to exceptional.
This is a cocktail that demands to be sipped slowly, ideally in a proper coupe or Nick and Nora glass, allowing each element to reveal itself gradually. Whether served before dinner as an appetite stimulant or as a nightcap that won’t interfere with sleep, the Spice 94 Manhattan demonstrates how thoughtful ingredient selection and proper technique can transform non-alcoholic cocktails into genuine craft experiences worthy of serious cocktail enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip Spice 94
- 1 oz sweet vermouth (non-alcoholic or traditional)
- 2-3 dashes aromatic bitters
- Ice cubes for stirring
- Luxardo cherry or brandied cherry for garnish
- Optional: orange peel for expression
Instructions
Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes and add the Seedlip Spice 94, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters. Stir gently but thoroughly with a bar spoon for 20-30 seconds, allowing the mixture to chill and dilute slightly while maintaining clarity—stirring rather than shaking is essential for preserving the cocktail’s silky, translucent appearance that defines a proper Manhattan.
Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass, ensuring a smooth pour. If using orange peel, express the oils over the surface of the drink by holding the peel over the glass and giving it a firm twist to release the citrus essence, then either discard or add to the glass according to preference. Garnish with a cherry, dropping it gently into the center of the drink where it will rest elegantly at the bottom.
Tips
For the most authentic Manhattan experience, chill your glassware in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving, as proper temperature is essential to this cocktail’s success.
The quality of your sweet vermouth matters greatly here—seek out brands with complex botanical profiles that complement rather than overwhelm the Seedlip’s delicate spice notes. If you prefer a drier profile similar to a Perfect Manhattan, substitute half the sweet vermouth with dry vermouth.
The stirring time directly affects dilution; taste as you stir and adjust the duration to achieve your preferred balance between concentrated flavor and smooth drinkability. For those seeking additional depth, a spray of absinthe or a rinse of the glass with a few drops can add an intriguing anise note that pairs beautifully with the Spice 94’s warm aromatics.
Garden 108 Southside
The Southside cocktail traces its origins to the Prohibition era, where fresh mint and citrus helped mask the harsh edges of bathtub gin while creating a rejuvenating drink that became a favorite at Chicago’s Southside speakeasies. This classic combination of gin, lime, mint, and a touch of sweetness translates beautifully into the non-alcoholic domain through Seedlip Garden 108, which brings its distinctive blend of pea, hay, spearmint, and rosemary to mirror the herbaceous qualities traditionally provided by gin.
The result is a bright, garden-fresh cocktail that captures the invigorating spirit of the original while offering a completely alcohol-free experience that’s perfect for warm afternoons, brunches, or any occasion calling for something crisp and energizing.
What makes the Garden 108 Southside particularly successful is how naturally Seedlip’s botanical profile aligns with the cocktail’s essential character. The inherent mint notes in Garden 108 create a harmonious resonance with the fresh mint leaves, while the subtle vegetable undertones add an unexpected depth that prevents the drink from becoming one-dimensionally sweet or herbaceous.
This is a cocktail that celebrates freshness and liveliness, where the bright acidity of lime juice cuts through the simple syrup’s sweetness and the vigorous shaking creates a frothy, luxurious texture. Served in a coupe or cocktail glass with a crown of fresh mint, the Garden 108 Southside is as visually appealing as it’s delicious, offering proof that non-alcoholic cocktails can deliver the same sophisticated refreshment as their traditional counterparts.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seedlip Garden 108
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes for shaking
- Fresh mint sprig for garnish
- Optional: lime wheel for garnish
Instructions
In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with the lime juice and simple syrup—press just enough to release the oils without shredding the leaves, which can introduce bitterness.
Add the Seedlip Garden 108 and fill the shaker with ice, then shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty and the mixture is well-chilled.
Fine-strain the cocktail through a mesh strainer into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass to remove any mint fragments and ice chips, guaranteeing a smooth, refined presentation.
Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, gently slapping it between your hands before placing it in the drink to release its aromatic oils, and add a lime wheel if desired.
Tips
The quality of your mint makes an enormous difference in this cocktail—seek out fresh, vibrant leaves with no browning or wilting, and smell them before use to confirm they’re aromatic and full of essential oils.
When muddling, remember that gentle pressure is key; you’re releasing oils, not pulverizing the leaves into a green mash.
If you prefer a slightly drier Southside, reduce the simple syrup to half an ounce and adjust to taste.
For an extra layer of complexity, consider using a mint-infused simple syrup instead of plain, which can be made by steeping fresh mint in hot simple syrup and straining before use.
The fine-straining step is essential for achieving the elegant, clear appearance that distinguishes a properly made Southside from a mojito—this drink should be crisp and refined, not chunky or rustic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Seedlip and How Is It Different From Regular Spirits?
Seedlip is the world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit, crafted from botanicals, herbs, and spices. Unlike regular spirits containing alcohol, you’ll experience complex flavors without intoxication, making it perfect for sophisticated, mindful drinking experiences.
Where Can I Purchase Seedlip Products Online or in Stores?
You can purchase Seedlip products directly from their website, seedlipdrinks.com, or find them at specialty liquor stores, upscale grocers like Whole Foods, and major retailers including Target. They’re also available on Amazon.
How Long Does an Opened Bottle of Seedlip Last?
You’ll find that an opened bottle of Seedlip lasts about six months when stored properly in a cool, dark place. After opening, it’s best to refrigerate it to maintain ideal freshness and flavor.
Can Seedlip Be Consumed Straight or Is It Only for Cocktails?
Like fine wine tasted solo to appreciate its notes, you can absolutely sip Seedlip straight over ice. However, you’ll find it’s intentionally crafted with subtle flavors that truly shine when mixed into thoughtful, layered cocktails.
Are There Any Allergens in Seedlip Distilled Non-Alcoholic Spirits?
Seedlip products are free from major allergens. They don’t contain gluten, nuts, dairy, or soy. However, you should always check the specific product label, as ingredients vary between Seedlip’s different varieties and formulations.
