Bottled Still/sparkling Recipe

Chill and prepare

If bottled water is not already cold, chill the bottle in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or in an ice bucket for 10–15 minutes. Wash and dry the lemon and mint. Slice two lemon slices and pick two fresh mint sprigs, lightly bruise the mint by gently clapping between your palms to release aroma.

Prepare glass or bottle

Select a clean serving glass or a reusable serving bottle. Add 4–6 ice cubes into the glass (omit ice if serving in chilled bottle to maintain carbonation for sparkling water). If using a serving bottle, add 1–2 lemon slices and the bruised mint sprigs to the bottle.

Pour water

Open the bottle of still or sparkling water and pour gently into the prepared glass or bottle. If using sparkling water, pour slowly down the side of the glass or bottle to minimize foaming and preserve carbonation.

Garnish and finish

Float an additional lemon slice on top and tuck a mint sprig into the glass or bottle mouth for aroma. Add a lime wedge on the rim if desired. Insert a reusable straw if using a glass.

Serve immediately for best temperature and freshness. For sparkling water, serve right after pouring to retain effervescence; for still water, keep chilled and refill as needed.

For flavored water, lightly muddle the lemon slices in the bottom of the glass or bottle before adding water to release more citrus oils. For herbal variation, swap mint for basil or cucumber ribbons for a different profile.