Sharmila Chand
02-May-2026
As the heatwave takes over, try these herbal concoctions that are refreshing, flavourful, and naturally revitalising.
'Garden to Glass' is the exciting trend we are witnessing these days. It is not only exciting but also loaded with a tremendous wellness quotient. When you have earthy, floral, sweet and sour flavours rendered generously by fresh, age-old kitchen ingredients like basil, rosemary, mint and thyme, blended with your favourite alcohol, what do you get? An aromatic, herb-infused healthy drink? And that's what modern Mixology is all about: beautiful synergy with Wellness elements creating a guilt-free sensory experience.
Let's have a look at some of the exotic, exclusive, refreshing cocktails with herbal infusions:
1. 'Forest Breeze - A Story of Andaz'
By: Dheeraj Singh, Mixologist, Andaz Delhi, By Hyatt
(Image: 'Forest Breeze - A Story of Andaz', Andaz Delhi, By Hyatt)
How about sipping a refreshing cocktail that makes you feel you are enjoying lush greens? The 'Forest Breeze' cocktail, a rosemary-infused gin, is born out of this philosophy. What better herb than rosemary, as it embodies the spirit of the forest: piney, aromatic, and grounding? Fresh lime juice adds brightness, while simple syrup balances the tartness. The final touch — ginger ale — brings a gentle spice and effervescence, echoing the lively energy of summer. Together, these ingredients create a cocktail that is refreshing yet complex, a sensory journey that mirrors Andaz’s ethos of blending tradition with modern flair.
Small Bites Pairing: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
By Sous Chef, Satish Rawat
Smoky, savoury, and herbaceous, these skewers echo the earthy notes of rosemary while offering a satisfying bite. They represent Andaz’s focus on bold flavours with a refined presentation.
2. Majuli - A Gentle, Nutty One!
By: Vedant Newatia, Founder and Head Chef, Atelier V & Masala Code Indore
(Image: Majuli, Atelier V & Masala Code, Indore)
'Majuli' is an exotic drink inspired by Assam and named after the world’s largest river island. It combines ghee-washed Scotch whisky, cold-brewed Assamese lemongrass tea, wildflower honey, and orange bitters. We prepare it by first fat-washing blended Scotch with warm ghee, which softens the spirit and gives it a silkier texture with nutty notes. Separately, we cold-brew Assam tea with freshly crushed lemongrass stalks, which extracts citrus oils and herbal freshness without bitterness. These are then stirred together with honey and bitters over ice and served in a rocks glass.
Lemongrass adds a distinct aroma and a clean citrus lift, making the drink feel light and cooling, especially in warmer weather. Assam tea adds body, tannin, and a malty depth, giving the cocktail structure. The first impression is aromatic and bright, followed by warmth and a smooth finish.
Small Bites Pairing: Bhut Jolokia Pitha
When the drink is so exotic, how can the munching snacks be boring? Hence we recommend a crisp interpretation of the traditional Assamese rice cake, topped with a touch of sweet-spicy Bhut Jolokia chutney. The heat and smokiness pair well with the warmth of the whisky, while the lemongrass keeps the palate refreshed.
3. 'Ascension Reborn' – A Crisp Garden-Inspired Drink
By Ashish Raya, Mixologist, Malaka Spice, Pune
(Image: 'Ascension Reborn', Malaka Spice, Pune)
'Ascension Reborn' is designed to capture the essence of a dew-kissed morning. It brings together the robust, smoky backbone of Scotch whisky with the tart crunch of green apple, the citrus-herbaceous brightness of lemon balm, and the cooling, savoury depth of fresh celery.
We craft this drink by first creating a concentrated Green apple juice, which provides a sharp, fruit-forward acidity that brightens the whisky without masking its character. Separately, we prepare a house-made botanical syrup by gently macerating lemon balm and crisp celery stalks, allowing the vegetal and minty notes to infuse fully. These are mixed with Scotch, poured over large-format ice, and lengthened with high-quality soda water to create a highball that feels both structured and weightless. The celery is the secret weapon here; its natural salinity creates a savoury, umami-rich finish that pairs perfectly with the maltiness of the whisky. The lemon balm provides a clean, aromatic lift, making the drink incredibly sessionable. It’s an unusual combination, but the way the green, crisp flavours cut through the richness of the Scotch creates a refreshing, multi-layered experience. The first sip is vibrant and herbaceous, followed by the familiar warmth of the spirit and ending on a dry, refreshing note.
Small Bites Pairing: Pumpkin Chips & Lotus Tango
By: Madhu Bohra – Executive Chef Malaka Spice
When the drink is this light and aromatic, the food should offer a perfect interplay of smoke and crisp texture. That's what our Tango dish is all about.
4. Fennel Paloma – Bright & Herbaceous
By: Varun Sharma, Head of Bar, Comorin, Gurugram
(Image: Fennel Paloma, Comorin, Gurugram)
This is a vibrant, herbaceous take on a classic where we build layers of freshness using a house-made grapefruit, dill, and fennel oleo shrub, combined with tequila and fresh grapefruit juice, then topped lightly with ginger ale for lift. The fennel is chosen for its naturally sweet, anise-like profile, while dill adds a soft green, almost grassy nuance—together, they bring a unique aromatic complexity that elevates the citrus base. As the drink opens up, the herbs lend a cooling, slightly sweet earthiness that balances the tartness of grapefruit, making it crisp, refreshing, and beautifully layered.
Small Bites Pairing: Mutton Seekh Kebab
By: Chef Dhiraj Dargan, Brand Chef, Comorin, Gurugram
To give this concoction the best taste, pair it with Mutton Seekh Kebab. The rich, smoky fat of the mutton kebab is lifted by the bright citrus and gentle bitterness of the Paloma, while fennel adds a subtle sweetness that mirrors the spice profile of the meat. Together, it’s a balance of bold, refreshing, and aromatic notes that keep each bite feeling light and layered.
5. ‘Blend Of Herbs – Flavoursome & Peppy'
By: Himanshu Adhikari Head Mixologist, The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa
(Image: Blend Of Herbs, The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa)
A fruit-forward, refreshing cocktail that celebrates the synergy of herbs and citrus. Vodka-based and shaken well, it brings together antioxidant-rich pomegranate juice and invigorating mint for a drink that is both flavourful and functional. Known for its hydrating qualities, this blend supports digestion, boosts immunity with vitamin C, and offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Garnished with lavash bread & orange gel, the balance of sweet, tangy, and cooling notes creates a well-rounded and refreshing profile, ideal for warm climates.
Small Bites Pairing:
A selection of light, flavourful bites: Sundried tomato canapés, Creamy ricotta with cucumber, Feta mousse with watermelon and Mixed vegetable tart with pesto are great options we offer.
Cover Credits: iStock
