Garden to Glass: A Deep Dive into Herbs for Cocktail Crafting

When it comes to building better-for-you drinks, herbs can turn a simple pour into a cocktail worth savoring. At Cut Above, we believe non-alcoholic cocktails should be every bit as flavorful and satisfying as traditional ones—and fresh herbs help make that possible. Whether you’re enjoying a weeknight wind-down or hosting a sober-curious gathering, herbs bring aroma, balance, and complexity to any glass.

Using zero-proof spirits like ours, you get a clean base that allows fresh ingredients—especially herbs—to shine. From mint’s cooling lift to rosemary’s bold backbone, this guide explores the most essential herbs in cocktail culture and how to use them with intention.

 

 

Mint: The Uplifter 

Mint offers a fresh, cooling aroma that immediately brightens any drink. With its soft, green leaves and sharp menthol scent, it’s often the first herb added to alcohol-free cocktails for a reason. Whether paired with citrus or berries, mint adds crispness and clarity that help bring zero-proof recipes to life. Lightly pressing the leaves before adding them unlocks the oils without bitterness—perfect for refreshing highballs and iced teas.

 

 

 

 

 

Basil: The Sweet Herbalist

Sweet, slightly peppery, and fragrant, basil adds an unmistakable herbal charm. Especially good with fruits like peach, strawberry, or watermelon, basil bridges the gap between savory and sweet. In non-alcoholic drinks, where fresh flavor is everything, basil’s complexity brings body and dimension. Use it torn, not muddled, for a clean infusion that pairs beautifully with gin-style botanicals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thyme: The Earthy Underdog

Thyme is a quiet workhorse. Its woody, floral notes linger in a drink and pair wonderfully with ingredients like honey, lemon, and tea. Thyme works especially well in non-alcoholic spirits that mimic whiskey or herbal liqueurs. Try using it in syrups or as a gently smoked garnish to create a layered cocktail experience without the booze.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rosemary: The Bold Aromatic

With its piney scent and assertive presence, rosemary delivers drama. It’s ideal for zero-proof cocktails that want to lean into bold citrus, dark berries, or even ginger-forward spice. One simple sprig—gently torched or stirred through—can elevate a drink from simple to unforgettable. And because rosemary has such a strong aromatic profile, it mimics the structure that alcohol would usually provide.

 

 

 

 

 

Lavender: The Floral Dreamer

Lavender brings elegance and calm. Its gentle floral notes are perfect for lighter sips or drinks made with lemon, vanilla, or soft herbs. For alcohol-free drinks, lavender syrups and teas can add a dreamy quality that feels indulgent, not over-the-top. Just use sparingly—too much and you’ll lose that balance.

 

 

 

 

 

Cilantro: The Bright Risk-Taker

Cilantro adds a burst of green citrus energy. While more common in cuisine than cocktails, it’s a standout in non-alcoholic beverages that play with tropical fruit, spice, or lime. It’s bold and modern, and when used in small amounts, it brings edge and freshness to any zero-proof mix. Skip infusions here and use fresh leaves, lightly muddled or stirred in just before serving.

 

 

 

 

Try It Yourself with Our Cocktail Recipes

Want to see these herbs in action? Explore our growing collection of non-alcoholic cocktail recipes made with Cut Above’s zero-proof spirits. Whether you’re building a mint-forward refresher, a rosemary highball, or a thyme-spiked spritz, you’ll find something for every taste.

Visit drinkcutabove.com for recipes that are herbaceous, balanced, and alcohol-free.

Stirring the Garden Into Your Glass

Herbs are a powerful tool in the world of non-alcoholic spirits—adding flavor, body, and aroma in natural and nourishing ways. They let you be playful, seasonal, and endlessly creative with every pour. At Cut Above, we believe great cocktails don’t need alcohol to taste inspired. Whether you’re all-in on the sober-curious movement or just want a healthier lifestyle drink, fresh herbs can help make every glass a garden of possibility.

Shop our full lineup of zero proof alcohol free Spirits.

Try our Sample Size Variety Pack to discover which one is your favorite.  (The variety pack includes all 4 Cut Above Spirits with 3 alcohol free cocktails in each of the 4 trial size bottles!)

Looking for Nonalcoholic Cocktail Recipes?

Check out recipes for great Gin, Whiskey, Tequila, and Mezcal cocktails in our recipe section.