Wondering what the new huge trend for summer will be? Mocktails. As South Africa’s top cocktail bars release their seasonal menus, it’s clear that the modern mocktail is all about zesty flavours – and when it comes to zesty citrus flavours, Sanpellegrino sparkling fruit beverages are a firm favourite.

Zesty mocktails are the newest drinks trend. Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash.

“There is definitely a conscious movement whereby patrons are more aware of what they put inside their bodies,” says Denzel Heath of Mootee Bar, “and this has led to an increased demand for mocktails. But gone are the days when a mocktail was dull. They need to be sensational and full of flavour, using only the best ingredients on the market.”

It’s no wonder Mootee Bar was voted in the top 10 new bars in the world in the Spirited Awards and why top mixologists use Sanpellegrino sparkling fruit beverages to give their mocktails the edge it needs to deliver a full-bodied flavour.

Cause|Effect, a trendy Garden cocktail destination, unveiled their new cocktail menu last month with a selection of delicious mocktails. A sure favourite is the cinnamon and orange granita, featuring spicy orange sorbet, orange zest and topped up with Sanpellegrino Aranciata.

The cinnamon and orange granita at Cause | Effect. Photo supplied.

Whether used for mixing or simply for enjoying on its own, the citrus range is ideal for any palate. Containing genuine fruit juice and best served chilled, the flavours are bold and fresh. With no preservatives, the timing of the harvest of these Sicilian citruses at the Southern tip of Italy is what creates that rich flavour and fullness – and with a heritage dating back to 1932, Sanpellegrino has certainly perfected its craft.

The three flavours of Sanpellegrino sparkling fruit beverages. Photo by Werner Hayward.

Aranciata (orange) has intense aromas of real juice and peel from sun-ripened oranges. It has a taste of well-balanced freshness and a soft sensation of sugar, with a predominantly citrusy finish. If you prefer a more delicate citrusy flavour then the Aranciata Rossa (blood orange) is for you. With a full, soft and well-balanced taste, the Aranciata Rossa has an intense aroma of ripe Sanguinello oranges. Then the third varietal in the citrus range is the very popular Limonata (lemon). Made with the real juice of ripe lemons, it has intense fragrant aromas and notes that are beautifully balanced between sweet and sour.

Enjoy sipping a cheeky mocktail at home and showing off at your dinner-parties? Here are two quick and delicious mocktail recipes to try:

The Rossa Fizz

Add 2 orange segments, 2 teaspoons of Muscovado sugar (or use plain sugar), a splash of soda and top it up with Sanpellegrino Aranciata Rossa.

The Lemor Mix

Add 15 ml of strawberry syrup and 30 ml orange juice and top it up with Sanpellegrino Limonata.