KICKING back with a cool beverage in the warmer months is one of life’s simple pleasures. With the rise in popularity of craft cocktails, a similar rise in quality non-alcoholic drinks has followed suit. Keep cool and refreshed without booze with these festive, craft drinks.

    Hibiscus Nojito

    This take on the classic Cuban cocktail features the same refreshing blend of fresh mint and lime in traditional mojitos, with a hit of hibiscus syrup. Hibiscus syrup adds a rich, sweet floral complexity while lime and mint keep this drink light enough for a leisurely brunch.

    1.5 oz hibiscus syrup

    1/2 lime, quartered

    3 sprigs of mint

    pinch of sugar

    lime for garnish

    6 oz sparkling water

    Muddle sprigs of mint and quartered lime in syrup and a pinch of sugar. Top up with ice and sparkling water, garnish with fresh mint.

    Toby’s Espresso Julep

    Nothing hits the spot like a cup of coffee after dinner. Step it up with this iced espresso take on the mint julep from our friends at Toby’s Estate, featuring their famous Bedford Blend espresso.

    Rich notes of cocoa from the espresso are complemented by the refreshingly light addition of basil and mint in an easy-to-make infused simple syrup. Serve after dinner or in late afternoon for a sunset pick-me-up.

    2 shots of Toby’s Estate Bedford Blend espresso

    1.5 oz basil and mint infused simple syrup

    4 oz lightly textured whole milk (or the milk of your choosing)

    Fresh mint for garnish

    Pour two shots of espresso over ice. Add basil and mint infused syrup, stir.

    Lightly texture milk by frothing enough to alter its viscosity.

    Try your hand at pouring latte art, but don’t worry if you’re no barista-Basquiat, the flavor will make up for any shortcomings. Garnish with mint and start sipping.

    English Summer

    One sip of an English Summer and you’ll feel like an honored guest in the Queen’s court. Cold-brewed black tea concentrate from Kickstand Global provides an earthy, bitter base that tea enthusiasts will cling to in the warmer months. A burst of citrus and sweetness balances out the complexity of the black tea. Shake and serve up in a chilled martini glass with a twist of lemon for an upscale garden party vibe.

    2 oz Kickstand black tea cold-brewed concentrate

    1/2 lemon, squeezed

    1 1/2 oz simple syrup

    Combine all ingredients, shake with ice. Strain into chilled martini glass, serve up with a twist of lemon.(SD-Agencies)