DIY Cocktail-Inspired Herbal Teas Part 1
- Astrid van Essen
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
Deliciously Botanical, Zero Alcohol, 100% Vibe
There’s something about a cocktail that feels like a celebration – the clink of ice, the bright colours, the layers of flavour. But what if you could get that same joyful energy in a cup of tea?
Inspired by the rise of cocktail-themed tea blends (like those from The Tea Can Company), I’ve been playing with my herbal versions – think mocktail meets brew. Whether you’re avoiding alcohol, cutting down on caffeine, or love a fresh twist on tea time, these blends bring something special.
Here are a few DIY Cocktail-Inspired Herbal Teas to try at home using herbs, dried fruit, and ingredients you might already have in your garden or kitchen:
1. Aperol-Style Zesty Citrus Tea
Bright, bittersweet, and summery
Inspired by: Aperol Spritz
Ingredients:
Dried orange peel
Hibiscus petals (for that deep pink hue)
Lemongrass
A tiny pinch of dried rosemary or gentian root (optional, for the bitter note)
Sparkling water to top up (optional)
How to Brew: Steep 1 tbsp in hot water for 5–7 minutes. Strain, let cool, and serve over ice with a slice of orange.
2. Mint Mojito Cooler
Refreshing and crisp with a subtle zing
Inspired by: Mojito
Ingredients:
Dried mint
Lime peel or a few drops of lime juice
A sliver of fresh ginger or dried lemongrass
Optional: a tiny spoonful of honey or maple syrup
How to Brew: Steep in hot water for 5 minutes. Chill and serve over ice with a mint sprig.
3. Botanical Gin & Tonic Tisane
Herbaceous and floral with a sharp edge
Inspired by: G&TIngredients:
Juniper berries (lightly crushed)
Dried lavender or chamomile
Rosemary sprig or lemon thyme
Lemon peel
How to Brew: Steep 1 tbsp in hot water for 6–8 minutes. Strain and enjoy chilled with cucumber ribbons.
4. Berry Bellini Iced Tea
Fruity and floral with a prosecco-like lift
Inspired by: Peach or Raspberry Bellini
Ingredients:
Dried strawberries or raspberries
Elderflower
White tea or green rooibos
Optional: a dash of peach juice
How to Brew: Brew as a cold infusion or hot and chilled. Serve in a champagne flute with a few berries.
5. Spiced Hot Toddy Herbal Blend
Soothing, warm, and gently spiced
Inspired by: Hot Toddy
Ingredients:
Dried lemon slices or lemon balm
Cinnamon stick
Clove
Dried ginger
Chamomile or elderflower
How to Brew: Steep for 8–10 minutes. Add a dash of honey and enjoy warm.
Tips for Blending at Home:
Start small – test 1 tsp of each herb in hot water to get a feel for the flavour.
Use dried herbs for longer shelf life, or fresh if you’re brewing immediately.
Store blends in airtight jars and label them – cocktail tea parties, anyone?
Final Thought
These botanical brews are a lovely way to slow down, sip something special, and feel like you’re treating yourself without a drop of alcohol. They're also brilliant served at brunches, picnics, and garden gatherings.
Cocktail-Inspired Herbal Teas: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones? Yes! Fresh herbs work beautifully, especially mint, rosemary, and thyme. Just use about double the amount compared to dried, and be sure to use them right away for the best flavour.
2. Where can I buy ingredients like juniper berries or hibiscus? Most health food shops, herbal suppliers, or online retailers like Baldwins, Star Child, or even Etsy carry these. Look for organic, food-grade herbs.
3. Are these tea blends suitable for children or during pregnancy? Some herbs like hibiscus, rosemary, or juniper aren’t recommended during pregnancy or for young children. Always check with a healthcare provider if unsure, especially when blending for others.
4. Can I sweeten these teas? Absolutely. Add a touch of honey, agave, or a fruit syrup (like elderflower or peach) to balance sharper or more bitter notes, especially in iced versions.
5. Do I need any special equipment to make these? Not at all. A simple teapot, cafetière, or reusable tea infuser will do the job. For cold infusions, a jar or jug with a lid is perfect.
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