Noughty Non-alcoholic Blanc Recipe

Chill glassware (champagne flute or coupe) in the freezer for at least 10 minutes, or place in a sink of iced water while you prepare the drink.

Measure and chill the non-alcoholic sparkling blanc and white grape juice so they are cold before mixing.

Muddle herbs

In a cocktail shaker, place the fresh mint leaves and gently clap them between your hands once to release aroma, then add them to the shaker. Do not over-muddle — you want aromatic oils, not bitter chlorophyll.

Add the lemon juice, lime juice, elderflower cordial, simple syrup, orange bitters (or drop of extract), and the pinch of flaked sea salt (if using) to the shaker with the mint.

Add 1 cup of ice to the shaker, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for 8–10 seconds to chill and lightly dilute the mixture.

Strain the shaken mixture into the chilled flute or coupe over a small amount of fresh ice if desired (optional for a coupe usually serve without ice). Use a fine strainer to catch mint bits.

Slowly top with 1 cup of chilled non-alcoholic sparkling blanc and 1/4 cup chilled white grape juice. Pour carefully to preserve effervescence.

Gently stir once with a bar spoon (1–2 turns) to integrate; avoid vigorous stirring to keep bubbles.

Twist the lemon peel over the drink to express oils, then rim the glass briefly with the peel and drop it or place a wheel on the rim. Add 1 mint sprig for aroma.

Serve immediately while sparkling, and enjoy chilled. If using the optional sea salt, it will brighten the fruit flavors.