History & Heritage
“The Spiced Virgin Mojito emerged from the modern craft cocktail renaissance as part of the "sober curious" movement. It evolved from the traditional Cuban Mojito by removing rum and replacing simple sweetness with complex spiced syrups. This adaptation represents the craft cocktail movement's focus on sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages, proving that mocktails can be as complex and satisfying as their spirited counterparts.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
12 leaves
0.8 oz
0.8 oz
4 oz
2 dashes
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a 12-14 oz Collins or highball glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes
Slap mint leaves between your hands to release oils without bruising
Place mint leaves in chilled glass with lime juice and spiced demerara syrup
Gently muddle mint 3-4 times with light twisting motion to release essence
Fill glass to top with crushed or cracked ice
Add aromatic bitters if using
Top with chilled club soda
Stir gently from bottom up with bar spoon to integrate ingredients
Garnish with fresh mint sprig and lime wheel
Glassware
Served in a 12-14 oz chilled Collins or highball glass
Garnish
Slap to release oils, trim stem at angle
Thin slice from center of lime
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Make spiced demerara syrup in advance - steep spices for at least 1 hour
Never over-muddle mint - gentle pressing prevents bitterness
Use high-quality club soda with strong carbonation for best results
Serve immediately to preserve aromatics and carbonation
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Spiced Virgin Mojito.
Sweeter Version
Increase spiced syrup for dessert-like profile
Changes
Spicier Version
Steep spices longer or add jalapeño slices
Changes
Spiced Virgin Mule
Replace mint and lime with ginger beer and lime
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Gin Rickey
A no-sugar highball of gin, lime, and sparkling water—crisp, tart, and ultra-refreshing.
Vodka Rickey
A supremely refreshing highball cocktail representing the clean, crisp evolution of the historic Gin Rickey. The bright tartness of fresh lime and effervescent soda water showcases the clean slate of vodka in this minimalist masterpiece.
Basil Rickey
A modern classic that marries the bracing refreshment of a 19th-century Rickey with fresh basil—herbaceous, effervescent, and perfectly balanced without added sugar.