Non-alcoholic Recipe

Make simple syrup (if not using prepared)

Combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. (If you already have simple syrup, skip this step and use 1/2 cup.)

Lightly muddle herbs

Place the fresh mint leaves (reserve 4 whole leaves for garnish) and basil leaves in a sturdy glass or small bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of the prepared citrus mixture (see next step) or a teaspoon of the simple syrup to help extraction. Gently press/muddle 8–10 times with a muddler or the back of a spoon—just enough to release the aromatic oils without shredding the leaves into bits.

Prepare citrus base

In a pitcher, combine the fresh orange juice (1 cup), lemon juice (1 cup), and lime juice (1/4 cup). Add the cooled simple syrup (1/2 cup) and 1/2 cup cold water. Stir until evenly mixed. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding up to 2 additional tablespoons of simple syrup if desired.

Combine herb infusion with citrus base

Add the muddled mint and basil (and any remaining pressed juices) into the pitcher with the citrus base. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to marry flavors, then strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pitcher or bowl to remove herb bits. Press on solids with a spoon to extract remaining liquid, but avoid over-extracting bitter chlorophyll.

Chill and carbonate

Place the strained citrus-herb mixture in the refrigerator until cold (10–15 minutes). When ready to serve, gently stir in the chilled sparkling water or club soda (2 cups) to preserve fizz. If using optional bitters, add 6 dashes now and stir once.

Assemble glasses

Fill four tall glasses with about 1/2 cup ice each (adjust to preference). Divide the citrus-herb sparkling blend evenly among the glasses. Add a reserved whole mint leaf and an orange slice and lemon wheel to each glass for garnish. Optional: slap the reserved mint leaf between your palms first to release aroma before garnishing.

Final adjustments and serving

Taste one glass; if needed, add a splash (1–2 tablespoons) more simple syrup to individual glasses for extra sweetness or a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness. Serve immediately while sparkling is effervescent.

Storage: Store any leftover non-carbonated citrus-herb base (without sparkling water) in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Add sparkling water just before serving to retain fizz.