The Midnight Republic Mocktail
A sophisticated black tea, blackberry, white grape, and ginger mocktail created for America’s 250th anniversary.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker or mason jar with strong lid
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Fine-mesh strainer, optional
- Highball glass or stemless wineglass
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Strongly brewed black tea, chilled make night before
- 1 1/2 ounces White grape juice
- 1 tablespoon Seedless blackberry preserves
- 1/2 ounce Fresh lemon juice
- 1 pinch Salt
- 2 ounces Ginger ale
- Fresh blueberries
- Strawberry slice
Instructions
- Brew a strong cup of black tea and allow it to cool completely. Refrigerate until chilled.
- Add the chilled tea, white grape juice, blackberry preserves, lemon juice, and a very small pinch of salt to a cocktail shaker or mason jar.
- Add ice, seal the shaker, and shake vigorously for approximately 15 seconds. This helps dissolve and distribute the blackberry preserves.
- Fill a highball glass or stemless wineglass with fresh ice.
- Strain the mixture into the glass. For a smoother drink, pour it through a fine-mesh strainer. For a slightly more rustic berry texture, use a standard cocktail strainer.
- Top with ginger ale.
- Stir gently and garnish with blueberries and a strawberry slice.
Notes
Why It Works
One of the biggest problems with many mocktails is the lack of structure. Remove the spirit from a traditional cocktail and the result can quickly become sweetened juice with decorative leaves floating in it.
Black tea solves that problem. Its tannins create dryness and grip, giving the Midnight Republic a more substantial mouthfeel and a finish that resembles an adult cocktail. Blackberry preserves contribute concentrated fruit flavor and richness without requiring fresh berries, muddling, or a homemade syrup.
White grape juice provides body and a restrained sweetness, while lemon adds the acidity needed to balance both the preserves and the grape juice. The pinch of salt may seem insignificant, but it heightens the berry flavor and softens any harshness from the tea.
Ginger ale lightens the finished drink and adds a mild spice. Using ginger beer instead will create a sharper, less sweet version for anyone who prefers a stronger ginger bite.