Kombucha Mixed Drink: Finding Your Perfect Summer Cocktail

Kombucha Mixed Drink: Finding Your Perfect Summer Cocktail

Imagine a setting sun, a cool breeze, and the chatter of friends gathered for a backyard party. You’re in charge of the drinks, but as you reach for the usual suspects—sugary sodas and potent cocktails—a thought lingers: "Isn't there a way to quench thirsts and satisfy taste buds without compromising health?"Here’s where kombucha mixed drinks come into the picture! 

Kombucha, with its slightly sour, effervescent character and noted probiotic benefits, adds a new layer of complexity to the well-loved profiles of classic cocktails. This blog explores the rustic charm of kombucha cocktails and uncovers recipes you can whip up to surprise and delight your guests. So, prepare to make your summer soirées even more refreshing!

What is a kombucha mixed drink?

A kombucha mixed drink is simply a cocktail that incorporates kombucha as a key ingredient. This fermented tea, brewed with the help of a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), boasts a unique flavour profile that sets it apart. Its tangy, slightly sweet, and often fizzy character is perfect for creating several cocktail varieties.

You can easily find different kombucha flavours at your local grocery store, ranging from classic unflavoured to exotic blends like ginger, berry, and mango. For the adventurous home mixologist, brewing kombucha at home is rewarding.

The process involves brewing a batch of tea, sweetening it, and introducing a SCOBY to kickstart fermentation. Typically, people leave the mixture to develop in a warm spot for about 7 to 14 days. After fermentation, you can further enhance the flavour through a second fermentation with fruits, herbs, or spices, which increases carbonation and taste complexity.

The result is a zesty, probiotic-rich beverage that's ready to be transformed into a delightful cocktail. 

Have you ever wondered how fermentation affects your health? Understand its benefits and why you must include fermented foods in your diet by watching this video.


But why are kombucha cocktails so popular?

What makes kombucha cocktails unique?

As someone who enjoys crafting splendid cocktails, you might wonder why anyone would mix kombucha into a drink. Isn't kombucha a fermented tea? Believe it or not, kombucha adds a unique dimension to the cocktail world. Here's what makes kombucha cocktails stand out:

  • A healthier alternative to sugary drinks: Kombucha cocktails offer a refreshing, healthier alternative to traditional drinks. With its low sugar content and the probiotic punch it packs, kombucha turns a simple drink into a gut-friendly delight. It's an ideal choice for those who savour cocktails yet aim to avoid the sugar spikes typical of many mixers.

  • Versatility: Kombucha's slightly tart and fizzy profile makes it a brilliant companion for various spirits. Whether you mix it with vodka, gin, or even a flavoured liquor, kombucha's acidity cuts through the richness of these spirits, balancing the overall flavour and creating a refreshing beverage. This allows you to customise drinks to suit any palate.

  • Perfect for every occasion: Whether you're hosting a casual backyard barbecue or an elegant cocktail party, kombucha cocktails are always a welcome addition. Their refreshing nature makes them ideal for warm summer evenings, while their versatility allows them to shine on any occasion. 

So, are you ready to experiment with kombucha to expand your cocktail repertoire? Let’s start with a few classic pairings!

Also read: Is Kombucha Suitable for Vegans?

Classic kombucha cocktails

Classic kombucha mixes offer an exciting twist on traditional cocktails. They blend timeless recipes with kombucha's effervescent, probiotic-rich qualities. The creativity lies in keeping familiar flavours while introducing kombucha, making these drinks both nostalgic and innovative.

Kombucha Mule

The Kombucha Mule offers a fresh take on the legendary Moscow Mule by swapping out ginger beer for ginger-flavoured kombucha. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz vodka  

  • 4 oz ginger kombucha  

  • Fresh lime juice  

Instructions:

  • Fill a copper mug with ice.

  • Add vodka and lime juice.

  • Top with chilled ginger-flavoured kombucha.  

  • Garnish with a lime wheel and a slice of fresh ginger.

Gin and Kombucha 

Elevating a traditional G&T, this vibrant cocktail replaces tonic water with kombucha for a sweet kick.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz gin

  • 4 oz ginger kombucha

  • Fresh orange juice (optional)

Instructions:

  • Fill a highball glass with ice.

  • Add gin and kombucha.

  • Add a splash of fresh orange juice (optional).

  • Garnish with an orange peel and a fresh mint sprig to complement the drink’s crisp notes and release aromatic flavours.

Kombucha Cassis Highball

For a simple yet sophisticated beverage, the Kombucha Cassis Highball marries the deep, rich notes of Crème de Cassis with the lively zing of a fruity kombucha. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Crème de Cassis

  • 4 oz Black Currant Kombucha (if available)

Instructions:

  • Fill a highball glass with ice.

  • Pour Crème de Cassis over the ice.

  • Gently top with chilled black currant kombucha.

  • Garnish with a black currant or a lemon twist to elevate the drink's visual and taste profile.

Feeling inspired by the classics? Let's get a bit fruity and explore vibrant summer options!

Also read: Does Sealed Kombucha Need to be Stored in Refrigeration?

Fruity kombucha cocktails for summer

Summer cocktails can be tricky for those looking to quench their thirst with something fruity and refreshing while avoiding a sugar overload. Enter the world of fruity kombucha cocktails—where fermented tea meets a medley of flavours to deliver a guilt-free buzz with plenty of zest.

Tropical Peach Punch

A breezy blend of peaches, kombucha, rum, and lime—perfect for those who want tropical sunshine in a glass.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz white rum

  • 4 oz peach kombucha

  • 1 oz fresh lime juice

  • 1 oz coconut water

Instructions:

  • Combine rum, peach kombucha, lime juice, and coconut water in a shaker with ice.

  • Shake well and strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.

  • Garnish with a peach slice and a sprig of fresh mint.

Mango Kombucha Margarita

A refreshing twist on the classic margarita! This version replaces the traditional sour mix with kombucha to achieve a taste that's sure to please. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila

  • 4 oz mango kombucha

  • 1 oz fresh lime juice

Instructions:

  • If desired, rim a glass with salt.

  • Combine tequila, mango kombucha, and lime juice in a shaker with ice.

  • Shake well and strain into a chilled glass.

  • Garnish with a lime wedge.

Berry Booch Blast 

This vibrant cocktail is a celebration of fresh berries, gin, and the unique tanginess of kombucha.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz gin

  • 4 oz berry kombucha

  • Fresh basil leaves

  • Mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

Instructions:

  • Muddle fresh berries and basil leaves at the bottom of a shaker.

  • Add gin and kombucha.

  • Fill with ice and shake well.

  • Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.

  • Garnish with fresh berries and a basil sprig.

Craving more unique flavours? Let's spice things up with some herbal and spiced blends!

Also read: Understanding Kombucha and Alcohol: Can People Under 21 Drink it? 

Herbal and spiced kombucha cocktail creations

If you love a touch of spiciness in your beverage, herbal and spiced kombucha blends are perfect summer companions. They introduce an exciting dimension to your cocktails and are sure to tantalise your taste buds.

Ginger Kombucha Cooler

Combine the zesty kick of spicy ginger kombucha with the smooth warmth of bourbon. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz bourbon

  • 4 oz ginger kombucha

  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters  

Instructions:

  • Fill a shaker with ice, kombucha, and bourbon.

  • Add bitters to enhance the flavours.

  • Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled glass.

  • Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Spiced Pear Kombucha

This unique cocktail features a cosy mix of cinnamon, cloves, and pear infused with kombucha.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz pear brandy

  • 4 oz cinnamon-clove-infused kombucha

  • 1/2 tsp honey

Instructions:

  • To infuse kombucha: Add cinnamon stick and whole cloves to a bottle of kombucha. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

  • Fill a glass with ice.

  • Add pear brandy, infused kombucha, and honey.

  • Stir gently.

  • Garnish with a pear slice and a cinnamon stick.

Rosemary Kombucha Collins

This refreshing cocktail combines the aromatic notes of rosemary with the zesty flavours of gin and lemon.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz gin

  • 4 oz rosemary-infused kombucha 

  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice

  • Soda water

Instructions:

  • To infuse kombucha: Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary to a bottle of kombucha. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

  • Fill a highball glass with ice.

  • Add gin, rosemary-infused kombucha, and lemon juice.

  • Top with soda water.

  • Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a lemon wheel.

Ready for an adventure? Let's journey into the world of exotic concoctions that promise an explosion of flavours.

Also read: Creating Your Own Kombucha Energy Drink at Home Recipe

Exotic kombucha cocktails

For those looking to escape the mundane and explore extraordinary flavours, these exotic kombucha cocktails offer a sensory adventure. Each sip guarantees an explosion of unexpected tastes—a real flavour bomb perfect for spicing up any gathering.

Thai Iced Tea Kombucha 

The Thai Iced Tea Kombucha is an intriguing fusion, bringing together the creamy richness of Thai iced tea with the effervescent tartness of kombucha and a hint of rum's smooth warmth. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Thai iced tea concentrate

  • 2 oz white rum

  • 4 oz unsweetened kombucha

Instructions:

  • Prepare a Thai iced tea concentrate with strong black tea spiced with star anise, tamarind, and cardamom. Sweeten it with condensed milk.

  • Combine Thai iced tea concentrate, rum, and kombucha in a shaker full of ice. 

  • Give it a good shake.

  • Serve it over ice in a highball glass.

  • Top it with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.

Matcha Kombucha Martini 

The Matcha Kombucha Martini offers a bold take with the earthy undertones of matcha and the sparkling nature of kombucha. 

Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp matcha green tea powder

  • 2 oz vodka

  • 4 oz unsweetened kombucha

  • 1/2 tsp honey

Instructions:

  • In a shaker, combine matcha powder with a small amount of kombucha.

  • Shake well until the matcha is fully dissolved.

  • Add vodka, remaining kombucha, and honey.

  • Strain into a chilled martini glass.

  • Garnish with a light dusting of matcha powder.

Spicy Kombucha Paloma 

This fiery twist on the classic Paloma adds a touch of heat to the refreshing grapefruit flavour.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila

  • 4 oz jalapeño-infused kombucha

  • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice

  • 1/2 oz lime juice

Instructions:

  • To infuse kombucha: Add a few slices of jalapeño to a bottle of kombucha. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

  • Rim a highball glass with salt.

  • In a shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice.

  • Introduce the jalapeño-kombucha for a gentle blend.

  • Pour over ice in your prepared glass.

  • Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and a jalapeño slice.

Do you prefer to skip the booze? We've got you covered with delightful mocktails!

Non-alcoholic kombucha mocktails

For anyone who doesn’t simply enjoy the taste of alcohol or wish to take a break from it, kombucha offers a delightful alternative. Enjoy it on its own, or infuse it with fresh fruits, herbs, and spices for an extra kick. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a summer gathering, try crafting these kombucha-based mocktails.

Mediterranean Highball

This elegant mocktail brings together the refreshing notes of lime and thyme shrub with kombucha. 

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz lime and thyme shrub 

  • 4 oz unsweetened kombucha

  • Sparkling water (optional)

Instructions:

  • To make the shrub, combine equal parts of lime juice and sugar in a jar. Add fresh thyme sprigs. Let it sit for 24 hours, then strain.

  • Fill a highball glass with ice.

  • Add lime and thyme shrub and kombucha.

  • Top with sparkling water.

  • Garnish with a lime wheel and a fresh thyme sprig.

Coffee Mint Refresher 

With espresso coffee kombucha combined with a dash of lime, Coffee Mint Refresher is a stimulating drink that elevates your mood with each sip.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz cold brew coffee (or strong brewed coffee)

  • 4 oz unsweetened kombucha

  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice

  • Fresh mint leaves

Instructions:

  • Muddle mint leaves at the bottom of a glass.

  • Add cold brew coffee, kombucha, and lime juice.

  • Stir gently.

  • Garnish with a mint sprig.

Strawberry Thyme

If you’re seeking something sweet and herbaceous, the Strawberry Thyme concoction is your go-to mocktail option. 

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz unsweetened kombucha

  • 1/4 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)

  • 1 tsp honey (optional)

  • Fresh thyme leaves

Instructions:

  • Muddle strawberries and thyme leaves at the bottom of a glass.

  • Add kombucha and honey (if using).

  • Stir gently.

  • Garnish with fresh strawberries and a thyme sprig.

To ensure your kombucha cocktails are top-notch, here are some pro tips to perfect your creations!

Tips for crafting the perfect kombucha cocktails

Even the most inspired cocktail ideas can fall flat if not executed properly. To avoid last-minute rushes and disappointing results, here are a few key tips to guide you in your kombucha cocktail-making journey:

  • Add kombucha last: Its delicate carbonation can easily escape during the mixing process. To preserve the fizz, add the kombucha last to your cocktail.

  • Embrace freshness:  Use the freshest ingredients possible. Opt for high-quality spirits and fresh, seasonal fruits and herbs. They can elevate your cocktail game by adding depth and colour to your drink.

  • Chill your glasses: Serve your cocktails in pre-chilled glasses for an extra touch of refreshment, especially on hot summer days.

  • Taste as you go: Start with small amounts of each ingredient and taste as you go. Adjust the flavours to your liking, finding the perfect balance between the tanginess of the kombucha and the strength of the spirit.

  • Refrigerate your kombucha: Always use well-chilled kombucha for the most rejuvenating drinking experience.

  • Ice it up: When shaking cocktails, use plenty of ice. This ensures proper dilution and a perfectly chilled drink.

  • Garnish with flair:  Don't underestimate the power of beautiful garnishes. Fresh herbs, edible flowers, and colourful fruits can elevate your cocktails visually and add an extra layer of flavour.

Are you surprised by the endless possibilities of mixing kombucha with your traditional cocktails? With their diverse flavour profiles and versatility, kombucha mixed drinks are a true celebration of creativity and taste. So, continue exploring and discovering more flavourful combinations. 

If you’re looking to add kombucha cocktails to your party menu, we recommend that you get your fermented beverage from a trusted source. The Good Bug offers high-quality, ready-to-drink kombucha options, enabling you to craft a perfect cocktail within minutes. Visit our website to get your hands on your favourite beverage and bring a touch of health and adventure to your summer sipping!

References

https://www.foodandwine.com/cocktails-spirits/kombucha-cocktail-recipes

https://equinoxkombucha.com/blog/recipes/kombucha-cocktails/

https://www.bonappetit.com/story/three-kombucha-cocktails

https://wakeuptowaffles.com/kombucha-cocktails/

https://www.dadshack.in/blogs/blog/kombucha-cocktails

https://cookieandkate.com/kombucha-moscow-mules/

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