In recent years, zero proof cocktails have been increasing in popularity. A sign of a good cocktail bar is their atmosphere, quality of service and ingredients, and effort of inclusivity. When customers pop in for a drink, they deserve to feel just as tended to if they choose to order a non alcoholic drink, as they do if they order an alcoholic one.

With this blog, I wanted to share a tea based zero proof cocktail that can be enjoyed with a partner, pal, or solo, to bring on the warm and fuzzy feeling of a cocktail, without the added alc. Juniper’s Secret Meeting blend contains the herb damiana, and for those who didn’t know, damiana has long been used to make liquors, and acts as an aphrodisiac that provokes a feeling of mild lightheadedness. Traditionally, it was used by Indigenous cultures to treat bladder issues, kidney issues, and many other things. It is a powerful herb that makes a wonderful addition to an alcohol free drink. Read below to learn how to make a zero proof ginger mint paloma.

First, gather your ingredients. For this tea based zero proof cocktail, you will need:

• Secret Meeting Juniper tea blend
• Ginger root
• Mint
• Grapefruit
• Grapefruit sparkling water
• Agave syrup
• Limes

For each single drink, you will need the following proportions:

• ½ tablespoon of agave syrup
• 1 ½ teaspoons of water
• ½ grapefruit, squeezed
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon of Secret Meeting
• Sparkling water to taste
• 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
• 1 sprig of mint
• 1 grapefruit wedge for garnish

Depending on how many drinks you plan to make, you can increase the above at a 1:1 ratio.

To prepare the drink, follow the steps below:

• Brew and steep the 1 tablespoon of Secret Meeting (follow brew instructions on tea)
• Muddle ginger, mint, agave, tea blend, and water together
• Add in lime juice and grapefruit juice
• Shake with ice
• Pour into glass of choice and add sparkling water to taste
• Garnish with grapefruit wedge
• Enjoy responsibly!

In addition to damiana, the Secret Meeting tea has:

• ginger
• mint
• rose petals
• damiana
• lemon balm
• Cardamom

Which all act as a wonderful warming blend on their own, and provoke all the warm and fuzzy feelings you want during these cold winter months. Ginger and cardamom aid in digestion and add a subtle bit of spice that lingers after each sip. Lemon balm and mint add in stress reduction properties and help ease any mild pain or discomfort you might be experiencing, to help keep you feelin’ good. Lastly, rose petals add a soothing and romantic aroma to the blend. Perfect to sip on with your sweetie, pal, or while enjoying an evening of self care.

Juniper Culinary Apothecary teas, spice blends and other food products are not and shall not be considered food supplements in any circumstances. They do not ensure or supplement the daily vitamin intake and do not substitute a healthy diet.