Noughty Non-alcoholic Rouge Recipe

Brew and cool hibiscus

If you don't already have hibiscus tea, steep 1 tablespoon dried hibiscus flowers (or one hibiscus tea bag) in 1 cup just-boiled water for 6–8 minutes. Strain and chill until cool. Use chilled hibiscus for best results.

In a large mixing glass or pitcher, combine 1 cup chilled non-alcoholic dry red wine, 1 cup cooled hibiscus tea, and 1 cup chilled sparkling water. Stir gently to integrate bubbles without flattening them.

Add 1/2 cup grape juice and 1/4 cup pomegranate juice to the base mixture. Stir to combine. These juices provide depth and the classic 'rouge' fruit character while keeping the drink non-alcoholic.

Add 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice to lift the aroma and add a subtle citrus complexity.

Taste the mixture. Add 2 teaspoons simple syrup (or agave) and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice to balance acidity and sweetness. Stir and taste; adjust up to 1 additional teaspoon syrup if you prefer sweeter, or another 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice if you prefer brighter acidity.

Fill two serving glasses halfway with ice (about 1/2 cup ice per glass). Divide the mixture evenly between the glasses.

Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint and a thin orange wheel or twist dropped on the surface. Sprinkle about 1/2 tablespoon pomegranate arils into each glass if using for visual pop and light texture.

Give each glass one gentle stir to integrate garnish aromatics, then serve immediately so the sparkling water retains effervescence.