One year when I was living in New York City my friend asked me if I wanted to go on a Christmas bar crawl. As someone rare to drink as it was at the time, I said yes to the experience (and because I love the holiday vibes). Plus, New York City knows how to throw a party and I knew we’d see some fun characters and decor while out and about.

I believe it was our first stop where I had this delicious rosemary cocktail. It was classy, served in my favorite type of shallow champagne glass (I don’t know if that’s what it’s called, I also don’t care), and the flavors were just… right.

As someone who no longer drinks but who still loves a fizzy, fun beverage (like this Cranberry-Ginger Mocktail) I wanted to make a mocktail versioning of the rare holiday cocktail I still remember. 

This mocktail is tart and savory - a combo you may question but just go with it PLEASE - with just the hintiest hint of sweet rosemary, the tang of cranberry, and the glorious bubbles of club soda (or soda water, your choice). 

Cheers to whatever you’re celebrating, whenever you’re celebrating! 

Yields: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 4, 2-inch sprigs fresh rosemary 

• 1 cup water

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 1 cup unsweetened cranberry juice

• ½ cup fresh orange juice (approx. 1 orange)

• Sparkling water or club soda

• Ice cubes

• Fresh cranberries, for garnish (optional)

• Orange slices, for garnish (optional)

• Rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional) 

Instructions:

• In a small pot, make your rosemary syrup. Combine 1 cup of water, rosemary sprigs, and maple syrup/honey, place over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Reduce to low and cook for 2 minutes. 

• Remove from heat and let the rosemary steep at room temperature in the syrup for 20 minutes. Strain out your rosemary and pour it into a heat-proof container to cool completely

• In a pitcher, combine your cranberry juice,  orange juice, rosemary syrup, and ice. Stir and pour into your glasses

• When ready to serve, top each glass with club soda

• Finish with a slice of orange, cranberries, and a rosemary sprig if desired!

If you love this drink, tag @accentgolden in your toast posts on social!