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Origiin Fijnbos Gin
From the house of Thor Vintners comes this series of three wood-fired and hydro-distilled juniper botanical spirits, Origiin of Kamma-Kan Kamma. Crafted by winemaker and distiller Emile Gentis, he says they use earth-filtered mountain water for their distillations. They mature the spirit for a few weeks, allowing the oils to settle before blending and bottling.
Perfect serve: a classic G&T with a premium tonic, lemon zest and a few blueberries.
R359, drinknil.co.za
The Euphorika Extract
This artisanal brand uses sceletium tortuosum in its sparkling ready-to-drink beverage and its extract, which comes in a 20ml dropper. The ancient African botanical is said to naturally boost your mood and energy levels, and they recommended it for abstainers to use in social situations. The extract can be used as a tincture in a variety of cocktails.
Perfect serve: Cacao martini. Shake over ice: 3 tsp cacao powder /1–3 tsp coconut blossom nectar /2–3 tsp rosewater (optional) / 3/4 cup spring water /20 drops sceletium tortuosum.
R690, euphorikabeverages.com
Musgrave Inspirit
South Africa’s original pink gin just got sober-friendly. Inspirit is the non-alcoholic recreation of Musgrave Pink; like its big sister, Inspirit has fragrant notes of cardamom, juniper, ginger, lime and grains of paradise. Drink simply in a G&T, or get creative with cocktails.
Perfect serve: a scattering of pink peppercorns, or try the rose gin latte (see recipe at link below).
R249, musgravespirits.com
Recipe: musgravespirits.com/pages/cocktails
Bitterlekker
With its vibrant blood-orange, spicy, herbal flavours and dry finish, this bright little bottle makes the perfect aperitif. Created by the brilliant minds at Babylonstoren, part of the secret recipe includes their estate-grown honeybush tea.
Perfect serve: over crushed ice with a slice of blood orange and rosemary.
R135, shop.babylonstoren.com
Abstinence Cape Spice Rum Alternative
In a market awash with non-alcoholic gins, it's a joy to discover this just-released dark rum alternative. Careful distillation has ensured an authentic rum experience with hints of oak-spice and vanilla. Tangy toffee, burnt sugar and cacao nib with tones of coffee and allspice round it off on the smooth palate.
Perfect serve: a dark 'n' stormy cocktail: mix with ginger beer in a highball, garnish with fresh lime.
R279.99, woolworths.co.za
Text by Malu Lambert
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