Naturally Coloring Cocktails

Naturally Coloring Cocktails: Flavor, Flair, and Feel-Good Ingredients

When we think of cocktails, we often picture bold, vibrant colors dancing in the glass—bright reds, glowing golds, lush greens. But here's the twist: you don’t need artificial food dyes to achieve those stunning hues. With the rise of non-alcoholic spirits and zero-proof cocktails, there's also been a shift toward using natural ingredients that not only color beautifully but also contribute real flavor and wellness benefits.

Whether you're embracing a mindful drinking lifestyle or simply want to mix drinks that are as good-looking as they are good for you, naturally colored cocktails are the way forward.

Why Natural Colors Matter

Color isn’t just for aesthetics—it affects our perception of taste, mood, and even how satisfying a drink feels. Artificial colors might deliver visual punch, but they’re often tied to unnecessary additives. On the flip side, natural ingredients offer both beauty and substance. They can be nutrient-rich, antioxidant-packed, or simply more aligned with a wellness-focused lifestyle.

This makes them a perfect match for alcohol-free alternatives like Cut Above’s zero-proof gin, mezcal, or whiskey—all of which are crafted with clean, natural ingredients and none of the artificial extras.

5 Naturally Colorful Ingredients to Elevate Your Zero-Proof Cocktails

1. Beet Juice – Earthy Red Elegance


A small splash of beet juice turns any drink into a showpiece, especially when paired with citrus or ginger. It’s a favorite in zero-proof Palomas and pink-hued gin fizzes.

2. Turmeric – Golden and Glowing


Turmeric adds a warm, golden tone and a slightly spicy edge that works wonders in both cold and hot drinks. Combine with honey and lemon for a zero-proof toddy with health benefits.

3. Butterfly Pea Flower – The Color-Changer


This flower turns blue when steeped in water and shifts to purple when it meets acidity. It’s nature’s color magic. Pair it with a splash of lime and Cut Above non-alcoholic whiskey for a surprising twist on an old-fashioned.

4. Hibiscus – Deep Magenta with a Tart Kick


Hibiscus tea or syrup brings not only a gorgeous color but a refreshing tang. It's ideal for alcohol-free spritzes and iced punches that look as lively as they taste.

5. Activated Charcoal – For Dramatic Darks


Looking for a moody, mysterious twist? A dash of activated charcoal in a zero-proof cocktail adds visual intrigue. Mix with lemon and mint for contrast and brightness.

The Visual Ritual of Mixing

One of the joys of crafting zero-proof cocktails with natural ingredients is the ritual itself—the slow pour, the color bloom, the swirl of citrus zest or sprig of herbs. These small moments turn drink-making into a mindful act, not just a means to an end.

Using naturally vibrant ingredients invites you to engage with all five senses. Watch butterfly pea tea swirl from indigo to violet as you stir in lemon. Smell the earthy freshness of beet juice as it hits crushed ice. Hear the fizz of soda water over a turmeric-spiced syrup. These aren’t just beverages—they're tiny, sensory-rich experiences that bring presence and pleasure to the everyday.

Pair this intentionality with non-alcoholic spirits that are crafted for complexity—like the smoky notes of Cut Above mezcal or the botanical clarity of our zero-proof gin—and you create something far beyond a drink. You create a ritual worth repeating.

A More Colorful Way to Drink

The best part about naturally coloring your cocktails? You're not just skipping the alcohol or avoiding synthetic ingredients—you’re choosing a drink that reflects your values. One that celebrates creativity, health, and joy in every pour.

At Cut Above, we’re proud to offer non-alcoholic spirits that make it easy to build these moments—bold in flavor, free of compromise, and perfect for naturally inspired cocktails. So whether you're planning your next gathering or simply treating yourself to a weeknight wind-down, mix with intention. Let your colors shine.

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?