When you think mocktails, you might imagine basic fruit juices or plain sparkling water. But at WishGarden, we say it's time to level up! We've been mixing our herbal blends into mocktails as unique as our small-batch tinctures, unlocking epic flavor combos that bring all the good vibes of our lifestyle formulas—without the after-party headache. Sobriety doesn't have to be boring!
How It Started: The WishCart and Kombucha Magic
It all kicked off with our "WishCart" – a mobile minibar on wheels with stools, an umbrella, and enough character to charm any crowd. When our founder, Catherine Hunziker, suggested making mocktails the star attraction, we started mixing up our tinctures with sparkling water, fruit juices, and herbs to create tasty, health-boosting sips.
Soon after, we found our ideal mocktail partner: kombucha. Jamba Dunn, owner of Rowdy Mermaid Kombucha, clued us in—he'd been pairing our Deep Stress formula with his kombucha flavors, and it was an instant hit! We joined forces at his open house, and guess what? WishGarden + kombucha = a match made in mocktail heaven.
Since then, we've hosted herbal mocktail demos all summer, with every event turning into a fast favorite. Here's why these herbal elixirs are taking over the party scene:
- Fantastic Flavor – Our herbal mocktails taste amazing.
- Instant Effects – Paired with kombucha, our formulas act even faster. A few sips, and you can feel the benefits flowing, from a quick mood boost to a calm nervous system.
- No Fancy Skills Required – Just a glass, ice, and a stir.
- Alcohol-Free (or Close) – Skip the buzz but not the fun.
- Functional Beverages – Powerful herbs you can feel in the moment, perfect for uplifting your mood and grounding your energy.
Why Mocktails with Herbs?
While not entirely alcohol-free (kombucha and tinctures contain a trace amount, similar to that of a ripe banana per serving), these mocktails are a perfect alternative to your usual happy-hour fare. Each formula brings its own vibe, like Liquid Bliss with a Savory Peach kombucha—pure magic for social connection—or Badass Bitters paired with a zingy citrus flavor for that complex, sophisticated kick. Here are some more epic pairings to get you started!
Mocktail Pairing Guide: Transform Your Kombucha with WishGarden Blends
Recipe: The Herbal Mocktail Foundation
For the ultimate no-fuss mocktail, start with this base recipe:
- Fill an 8oz glass with ice – chilled is key!
- Pour in kombucha – any flavor you fancy. (For those who don't jive with kombucha, you can always substitute it with any effervescent beverage of your choice!)
- Add 8 pumps of WishGarden formula – pick the one that suits your mood (or your need).
- Stir, garnish, and sip – no need to overthink it.
For an elevated feel, strain into a chilled martini glass. Voilà, instant sophistication!
Top WishGarden + Kombucha Pairings
Ready to get creative? Here are our favorite pairings that bring out the best in each blend—perfect for impressing friends and treating yourself!
1. Liquid Bliss + Berry or Floral Kombucha
- Flavor Profile: This blend pairs beautifully with berry, floral, or citrus kombucha flavors. Try Flower Grow from Rowdy Mermaid or Raspberry Goji Rose by Wild Tonic.
- Mood: Heart-opening, connection-inspiring, mood boosting.
- Garnish: Add an orange zest and peppermint sprig for a touch of elegance.
2. Badass Bitters + Not-Too-Sweet Citrus Kombucha
- Flavor Profile: Earthy and bold, Badass Bitters shines with a tart, slightly bitter kombucha like Citrus Hops from Brew Dr.
- Mood: Perfect for those who enjoy a complex, sophisticated flavor or are looking for some digestion support.
- Garnish: Top with a lemon slice or rosemary sprig.
3. Chlorophyll & Friends + Herbal or Lightly Fruity Kombucha
- Flavor Profile: Chlorophyll & Friends pairs beautifully with light, herbal or mildly fruity kombucha flavors, like Herbal Uplift by Brew Dr. or Lavender Lemonade by Rowdy Mermaid. It also adds a fun and vibrant green color!
- Mood: Refreshing, minty, grounding, and revitalizing.
- Garnish: Add a lemon wedge or cucumber slice for a fresh twist.
4. Deep Stress + Blueberry or Herb Kombucha
- Flavor Profile: For mellow, stress-busting vibes, pair with flavors like Blueberry Basil from Wild Tonic or Clear Mind by Brew Dr.
- Mood: Chill out, ease into relaxation.
- Garnish: Add fresh blueberries or a sprig of thyme.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Herbal Mocktail
- Start with Ice-Cold Kombucha – The colder, the better. Mocktails are all about that refreshing factor.
- Experiment with Garnishes – A sprig of mint, a slice of fruit, or even a cinnamon stick can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Stir or Shake? – For a smoother taste, give your mocktail a good shake with ice and strain into a fresh glass.
- Let Your Mood Be Your Guide – Choosing a WishGarden formula is like picking the right soundtrack for your day. Go with what feels right!Additional formulas that work well in mocktails are Genius Juice, Digestive Rescue and Party Prep.
Something for Everyone!
Planning a gathering? Make it unforgettable with a lineup of WishGarden mocktails that please every palate, from the sober-curious to cocktail lovers. Our formulas mix beautifully with kombucha and sparkling beverages for mocktails, but they're also right at home in your favorite cocktail recipes. Whether it's a cozy night in or a festive holiday bash, these herbal blends make sure everyone has something special in their glass!
Rebecca Younger is passionate about herbs and women's health. She aspires to plant seeds of inspiration within her community about plant medicine and healthier ways of life. She studied Herbal Medicine at Herbalism Roots in Denver and is a certified Doula through the Matrona Foundation. She is the Brand Communications Specialist at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.