Add 2 tablespoons neutral simple syrup (or your preferred liquid sweetener) and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice. Stir until the sweetener is fully incorporated.

Flavor & Aroma

If you want a more intense cherry flavor, add 1 teaspoon black cherry concentrate or puree and stir until blended.

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and, if using, 1 teaspoon maraschino cherry liqueur or 1 teaspoon cherry extract. Stir again to marry flavors.

Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness or acidity: add up to 1 additional teaspoon simple syrup if needed or another 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice to brighten.

Electrolyte/functional (optional)

If making the electrolyte version, dissolve 1 teaspoon unflavored electrolyte powder and a 1/4 teaspoon pinch of sea salt into the base mixture. Stir until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust.

Carbonation & Finish

Fill a serving glass with about 1 cup of ice cubes.

Pour roughly half the chilled carbonated water (about 1/2 cup) into the base mixture and gently stir to combine. This reduces foaming and preserves bubbles.

Pour the mixture over the ice in the serving glass, then top with the remaining chilled club soda or sparkling water (about 1/2 cup) to finish. Stir gently once to integrate.

Garnish with 1–2 fresh black cherries or a maraschino cherry and optionally a lemon wheel or mint sprig.

Serve immediately while chilled and effervescent.