Classic Mojito Zero (Zero-Proof)

A bright, non-alcoholic mojito built on fresh lime, gently muddled mint, and sugar syrup, lengthened with soda water over full ice. This SOP covers the muddle-in-glass method that protects the mint from bruising into bitterness.

1. Squeeze 25-30 ml fresh lime juice into the glass and drop in 2 spent wedges for aroma.
2. 25-30 ml fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
3. Add 20 ml sugar syrup and 8-10 fresh mint leaves on top of the syrup.
4. 20 ml sugar syrup; 8-10 mint leaves
5. Press the muddler down 4-5 times to gently bruise the mint, releasing oil; never twist or shred the leaves.
6. 4-5 gentle presses, no twisting
7. Fill the glass completely with fresh ice cubes to the rim.
8. Top with chilled soda water and lift gently with a bar spoon 2-3 times to combine without flattening the fizz.
9. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig lightly clapped between the palms and serve with a straw.