Zero Proef Recipe

Make ginger syrup (if not using store-bought)

Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a small saucepan with 1/2 cup peeled, thinly sliced fresh ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stir until sugar dissolves, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. Cool, strain out ginger, and refrigerate. Use 1/2 cup for this recipe; reserve remainder for other drinks.

In a measuring pitcher, combine 0.75 cups freshly squeezed lime juice and 0.5 cups freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. Add 0.5 cups ginger syrup, 2 tablespoons agave syrup and a 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (we list 1 tsp above; use 1/4–1/2 tsp to taste). Stir until fully blended and tasting balanced (bright, slightly sweet, and gingery).

Prepare strong black tea: steep 1 tea bag (or 1 tablespoon loose leaf) in 1 cup just-off-boil water for 4–5 minutes, then cool to room temperature. If using the optional smoky note, steep 2 teaspoons lapsang souchong in 1/4 cup hot water for 3 minutes, strain and cool, then combine with the black tea.

Add 1 cup of the cooled black (and smoky, if used) tea to the citrus-ginger mixture. Stir in 2 teaspoons rosemary simple syrup. To make rosemary simple syrup: simmer equal parts water and sugar (1/2 cup each) with 2 small rosemary sprigs for 5–7 minutes, cool and strain.

Add 4 dashes of alcohol-free angostura-style bitters, then taste and adjust: if too tart, add another 1 teaspoon agave; if too sweet, add a splash more lime. Chill the combined base in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

To assemble each serving, fill a highball glass with ice (about 3/4 full). Pour 1/2 cup of the chilled cocktail base over the ice.

Top with 1/2 cup chilled sparkling water, gently stir once or twice to combine without losing all carbonation.

Garnish with a thin grapefruit slice and a sprig of fresh rosemary. For an aromatic flourish, briefly singe the rosemary with a lighter (carefully) or slap it between your palms to release oils before placing it in the glass. Optionally float a dehydrated grapefruit wheel on top for visual contrast.

Serve immediately. Provide a small straw or stirrer and a coaster. Encourage the drinker to sniff the rosemary before sipping to appreciate the botanical aroma.