The Californian brings the flavors of California into the glass: sweet mango meets tart grapefruit and zesty lime. The ground cherry as a garnish not only adds color but also a slightly sour note that rounds off the drink. Perfect for warm days or as a non-alcoholic alternative to fruity Sours.
And this is what you need for the Californian – non-alcoholic
2 cl mango syrup
2 cl lime syrup
8 cl freshly pressed orange juice
8 cl freshly pressed grapefruit juice
1 ground cherry for garnish
What matters
The trick lies in the ratio of the juices: orange juice brings sweetness, grapefruit bitterness. If the drink tastes too tart, add 0.5 cl more mango syrup. It’s important to garnish with the ground cherry just before serving – its leaves wilt quickly. Those who prefer it even fresher can add a thin slice of ginger (approx. 1 mm) to the shaker before shaking and remove it after straining. This adds a slight spiciness without overpowering the fruit notes.
Variations
- Californian Spritz — Top up the drink with 6 cl non-alcoholic sparkling wine or soda water and serve in a large wine glass. Garnish: orange slice instead of ground cherry.
- Green Californian — Replace 2 cl lime syrup with 2 cl basil syrup and lightly press 3–4 fresh basil leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. Garnish: basil leaf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Freshly pressed, the drink tastes more intense and less sweet. Store-bought juice often contains added sugar, which disrupts the balance. If necessary, choose a high-quality direct juice without additives.
Why does the drink sometimes taste too sour?
Grapefruit juice varies greatly in acidity and bitterness. With very tart fruits, add 1 cl more mango syrup or dilute the grapefruit juice with a little water (ratio 7:1).
Can I omit the ground cherry?
Yes, but it gives the drink a special note. Alternatively, an orange slice, lime wheel, or cocktail cherry are suitable.
