Rosemary Ginger Cold Brew

The Rosemary Ginger Cold Brew is a sophisticated and invigorating non-alcoholic coffee drink. It perfectly balances the smooth, low-acidity profile of cold brew coffee with a homemade simple syrup infused with zesty ginger and fragrant rosemary. This combination creates a complex flavor profile that is simultaneously spicy, sweet, and herbaceous, offering a unique twist on traditional iced coffee. It's an ideal choice for a warm day or whenever you need a flavorful and stimulating pick-me-up.
Rosemary Ginger Cold Brew

Preparation

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

This beverage is classified as a modern, non-alcoholic coffee drink. It's a contemporary creation often found in specialty or third-wave coffee shops, existing as a unique, infused iced coffee rather than a traditional cocktail or milkshake.

Serving

Served cold in a tall Collins or Highball glass filled with ice, this is a refreshing, non-alcoholic coffee drink of about 12 ounces.
Serving size
~350 ml / 12 oz
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Collins or Highball glass
Glass treatment
None

Backstory

This drink doesn't have a long history but is a product of the modern craft coffee movement. Baristas and coffee enthusiasts began experimenting with culinary herbs and spices to create more complex flavor profiles in cold brew. The combination of rosemary and ginger became popular for its delightful aromatic contrast and its ability to complement the deep notes of coffee.
Origin
A contemporary creation, likely originating in specialty coffee shops in the United States or Europe within the last decade (c. 2010s). It represents a trend of incorporating savory and herbal elements into modern coffee beverages.

Rosemary Ginger Cold Brew

The drink is commonly known as Rosemary Ginger Cold Brew. Alternative names like Ginger Rosemary Iced Coffee simply invert the main flavor components. The term 'Herbal Ginger Cold Brew' is a more general descriptor for this type of infused coffee beverage.
Original name
Rosemary Ginger Cold Brew
Alternative names
  • Ginger Rosemary Iced Coffee
  • Herbal Ginger Cold Brew

Characteristics overview

This drink boasts a complex aroma of rosemary and ginger over rich coffee, with a smooth texture and a balanced, sweet-spicy flavor. Its clean, herbal aftertaste makes it a refreshing choice, especially suitable for warmer seasons.
Flavor
herbaceous, spicy, sweet, coffee, piney, earthy
Aroma
rosemary, ginger, coffee, fresh
Taste balance
balanced, sweet, bitter, spicy
Aftertaste
clean, lingering, herbal, spicy
Fizziness
still
Color appearance
dark brown, clear, translucent
Texture
smooth, watery, light
Seasonality
refreshing, summery, year-round

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor is moderately intense, with a pleasant sweetness and ginger spice balancing the natural bitterness of the coffee. It is a non-alcoholic and non-carbonated beverage.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

The core components are cold brew concentrate, water, and a homemade rosemary ginger simple syrup. A fresh sprig of rosemary is essential for garnish.
  • Cold Brew Concentrate120 ml / 4 oz
    A smooth, low-acid cold brew concentrate works best.
  • Water120 ml / 4 oz
    Cold, filtered water is recommended for the best taste. The ratio to concentrate can be adjusted to taste.
  • Rosemary Ginger Simple Syrup30 ml / 1 oz
    To make, simmer 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 2-3 rosemary sprigs, and a 1-inch piece of sliced ginger for 10-15 minutes. Strain and cool.
  • Rosemary Sprig1 piece
    For garnish.
  • Candied Ginger Slice1 piece(optional)
    An optional garnish for extra ginger flavor and visual appeal.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

You will need a saucepan to prepare the infused syrup and standard bar tools like a jigger and a bar spoon to assemble the final drink.
  • Bar spoon for stirring
  • Measuring jigger for liquids
  • Saucepan for making the syrup

Instructions

The process involves making a rosemary and ginger infused simple syrup, then combining it with cold brew concentrate and water over ice in a tall glass. A final stir and a fresh garnish complete the drink.
1. First, prepare the Rosemary Ginger Simple Syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger (sliced), and 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Reduce heat and let it gently simmer for 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Remove from heat, let it cool for about 20-30 minutes, then strain out the solids. Store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
4. To assemble the drink, fill a Collins or Highball glass with ice cubes.
5. Pour in the cold brew concentrate and the homemade Rosemary Ginger Simple Syrup.
6. Top with cold, filtered water and stir gently with a bar spoon to combine.
7. Garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary and an optional slice of candied ginger. Serve immediately.

Garnishing

Garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary to enhance the aroma. A slice of candied ginger can be added for an extra touch of spice and elegance.
  • Fresh rosemary sprig, placed in the glass
  • Candied ginger slice (optional), placed on the rim or in the glass

Dietary Information

This drink contains caffeine but is naturally free from alcohol, dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, and gluten. It is a suitable choice for both vegan and vegetarian diets.
✕ Contains alcohol
✕ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This drink is moderately low in calories, with its energy coming primarily from the sugars in the simple syrup. The carbohydrate and sugar content can be adjusted by using less syrup.
Calories
averagely 90-110 kcal / 377-460 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
averagely 22-26 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
averagely 20-24 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This drink is perfect as a morning refreshment or an afternoon pick-me-up. It is also an excellent and sophisticated non-alcoholic option for brunch gatherings or simply to enjoy on a warm day.
  • Morning Refreshment
  • Afternoon Pick-Me-Up
  • Brunch
  • Warm Weather Drink

Pairing suggestions

This drink pairs wonderfully with light pastries that won't overpower its delicate herbal notes, such as almond croissants or shortbread. Savory baked goods like cheddar scones also create a delightful contrast with the drink's subtle sweetness and spice. It is an excellent companion for breakfast or brunch foods.
  • Almond croissants
  • Lemon poppy seed muffins
  • Shortbread cookies
  • Savory scones (e.g., cheddar and chive)

Rosemary Ginger Cold Brew: An Herbal & Spicy Infusion

The Rosemary Ginger Cold Brew is a creative and refreshing non-alcoholic coffee beverage perfect for those looking to explore new flavor dimensions. Its unique combination of earthy rosemary, spicy ginger, and smooth cold brew results in a sophisticated drink that is both stimulating and satisfying. Easy to prepare once the infused syrup is made, it's a standout choice for a chic brunch, an afternoon treat, or a flavorful daily coffee ritual. This drink beautifully showcases the versatility of coffee as a base for culinary-inspired infusions.

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Espresso & Tonic

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