The Mother Root Old Kyoto is a gentle, tea-scented cocktail that proves alcohol-free drinks can be just as layered as anything with a spirit in it. Ginger root meets cold-brewed genmaicha for a warm, savory sip with a quiet nod to Kyoto.
This drink pairs Mother Root, a small-batch UK blend of pressed ginger juice, blossom honey, and organic apple cider vinegar, with cold-brewed genmaicha tea. Genmaicha is a Japanese green tea roasted with toasted brown rice, and it brings a nutty, almost popcorn-like warmth that settles the switchel’s fire beautifully. Genmaicha was traditionally a way to stretch precious tea leaves further for everyday drinking, and I love that a little piece of that history ends up in your glass along with a nod to Kyoto itself.
Cold brew your genmaicha for five to ten minutes so it stays smooth instead of bitter, then build it straight over the switchel and honey in a highball glass filled with ice. Give it a quick stir so the honey fully dissolves, then finish with a lemon wheel. That last bit of citrus is what pulls the whole thing together.
A Few Variations to Try
- Swap the genmaicha for hojicha for something a touch smokier
- Stir in a spiced honey, like ginger or chili honey, for extra warmth
- Top with a splash of soda water for a lighter, spritz-like pour
- Add a sprig of fresh mint alongside the lemon wheel for a cooling contrast
Does the Mother Root Old Kyoto Have Alcohol in It?
No, and that is the whole point. Every ingredient here, the switchel, the tea, the honey, is completely alcohol-free, so it’s a lovely pick for anyone after real flavor without the buzz.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
You can brew the genmaicha in advance and keep it chilled for a couple of days. I would still build the drink itself fresh though, so the ice and lemon stay at their best.
If you love this one, try my Mother Root Ginger Bamboo next, or the Mother Root Hot Not Toddy if you’re after something warm and cozy instead.
Here is the recipe
Mother Root Old Kyoto
Ingredients
- 15 ml Mother Root
- 100 ml Cold-Brewed Genmaicha Tea
- 1 Bar spoon Honey
Instructions
- Build in a highball glass over ice.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel.