The Gin Watermelon Kombucha Crush is crisp, fresh, and a little bit fizzy. It mixes the cool taste of watermelon with the tang of kombucha and the clean bite of gin for a drink that’s both light and refreshing. It’s a great choice when you want something that feels bright but still balanced. The kombucha adds a gentle sparkle and a hint of earthiness, while the gin keeps it grounded. Perfect for warm days, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want a drink that’s easy to sip but still brings something new to the table. Serve cold and enjoy right away. Inspired by thesocialsipper.com.
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Tasting Notes
The Gin Watermelon Kombucha Crush is a crisp, citrusy cocktail bursting with refreshing flavors and a touch of effervescence. Juicy watermelon adds cooling sweetness, complemented by the botanical complexity of gin and the zesty sparkle of lemonade. Lime juice brightens the profile with tartness, while flavored kombucha introduces subtle tang and probiotic fizz. This cocktail is light, vibrant, and wonderfully refreshing—perfect for hot days or any time you want a lively, low-ABV drink with a sophisticated edge. Its balance of fruit, botanicals, and effervescence makes it both revitalizing and delightfully sippable.
Equipment and Glassware
This cocktail is simple to craft but shines in presentation. Use a jigger for precise measurements and a bar spoon for mixing ingredients without losing the bubbles. A cocktail shaker is optional if you prefer to pre-chill before topping with kombucha. Serve in a Collins glass, stemless wine glass, or even a mason jar for a casual, rustic feel. Crushed ice or large cubes both work depending on your desired dilution. Garnish with a watermelon wedge, lime wheel, or fresh mint sprig for color and aroma.
Ingredients
- 1½ oz gin
- 2 oz sparkling lemonade
- 2 oz watermelon juice
- ¼ oz lime juice
- 1 splash flavored kombucha (e.g., ginger or berry)
- Watermelon wedge or mint sprig for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a shaker, add gin, watermelon juice, and lime juice.
- Fill with ice and shake until well chilled.
- Pour into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Add sparkling lemonade and a splash of kombucha.
- Finish with a watermelon wedge or mint sprig, if desired.
Pro Tips
- Use a cold-pressed watermelon juice for richer flavor or blend and strain fresh watermelon.
- Choose a citrusy or herbaceous gin like Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray No. Ten, or Hendrick’s for more nuance.
- For a probiotic punch, go with a ginger-lemon, raspberry, or hibiscus kombucha.
- If serving in a pitcher, add kombucha just before serving to preserve fizz.
- Want a stronger kick? Add a ½ oz of Aperol or elderflower liqueur for an herbal-fruity twist.
When to Serve
Serve the Gin Watermelon Kombucha Crush at brunch, garden parties, picnics, or as a pre-dinner refresher on a warm day. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, health-forward events, or any time you want a drink that’s as vibrant and light as it is stylish. The probiotic kombucha element also makes it ideal for wellness-themed menus or those seeking a more mindful cocktail.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Select a fresh and floral gin such as Bombay Sapphire, The Botanist, St. George Botanivore, or Empress 1908 (for color).
- For kombucha, opt for lightly flavored, low-sugar options like Health-Ade, GT’s, or Brew Dr..
- Use sparkling lemonade from Sanpellegrino, Fever-Tree, or homemade for superior citrus fizz.
- Choose seedless watermelon for juicing or go for bottled juices with no added sugar.
Similar Cocktails
- Empress Gimlet Colada
- Lime Fizz Cocktail
- Cucumber Cosmopolitan
- Pineapple Kiwi Cooler
- Kiwi Lemonade Cooler
Ingredients
- 1½ oz gin
- 2 oz sparkling lemonade
- 2 oz watermelon juice
- ¼ oz lime juice
- 1 splash flavored kombucha (e.g., ginger or berry)
- Watermelon wedge or mint sprig for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a shaker, add gin, watermelon juice, and lime juice.
- Fill with ice and shake until well chilled.
- Pour into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Add sparkling lemonade and a splash of kombucha.
- Finish with a watermelon wedge or mint sprig, if desired.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use cold-pressed watermelon juice for a cleaner, more natural flavor.
- Choose a kombucha that complements the fruit—ginger for spice or berry for extra depth.
- For a lower ABV version, reduce the gin to 1 oz and increase the kombucha.