Wild May Cup Mocktail – A Fresh & Herbal Beltane Inspired Drink
There’s something undeniably enchanting about early May – when the garden bursts into bloom, the air smells green and alive, and every meal feels like a celebration. That’s exactly the spirit behind the Wild May Cup Mocktail, a vibrant blend of fresh berries, mint, citrus, and aromatic bitters.
This spring mocktail was inspired by Beltane, a cross-quarter festival rooted in ancient Celtic tradition that celebrates fertility, fire, and new growth. Traditionally, revelers would sip herbal May Cups – infused with blossoms, herbs, and wine – to honor the season. This non-alcoholic version captures that same energy with a playful mix of ingredients that feels both grounded and joyful.
The Wild May Cup Mocktail features muddled berries for sweetness and color, fresh lemon juice for zing, and mint for brightness and balance. A few dashes of bitters round everything out with subtle herbal depth. Served over ice and garnished with a sprig of mint and a single berry, it’s as beautiful as it is refreshing.
This is more than just a drink… it’s a seasonal ritual in a glass. Perfect for garden gatherings, brunches, or quiet moments in the sun, the Wild May Cup Mocktail offers a delicious way to welcome the turning of the Wheel.
When to Serve the Wild May Cup Mocktail
- Beltane brunches and spring rituals
- Garden parties, solstice teas, or handfasting celebrations
- Anytime you want to honor growth, love, and fresh energy
Wild May Cup Mocktail
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup mixed berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries – your choice)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp simple syrup (or honey syrup)
- 1 oz non-alcoholic spirit (I used Seedlip Garden 108)
- 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters (see variations below)
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves (plus a sprig for garnish)
- ice
- soda water to top
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the berries, mint leaves, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Add the non-alcoholic spirits and bitters.
- Fill the shaker with ice and stir or shake gently to chill.
- Pour the mixture into a serving glass filled with ice.
- Top with a splash of soda water.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a single berry.
Variations: Craft Your Own May Cup
| Bitters Used | Flavor Notes | Vibe |
| Angostura | Classic herbal bitterness | Earthy and floral |
| Smoked Lemon | Subtle smoke & bright citrus | Adds campfire depth |
| Chai Bitters | Warm spices like cardamom & clove | Great for a spiced May Cup twist |
You can even mix a dash of two – for example, try 2 dashes Angostura & 1 dash chai for a rich, herbal spice profile.
If you want to amp up both the flavor and the presentation, try rimming the glass in some Raspberry Citrus Salt.
Whether you’re dancing around a maypole or just enjoying a spring afternoon on your patio, this Beltane mocktail invites you to pause, sip slowly, and celebrate the magic of the moment.
Magical Ingredients
-
Raspberries – for love, fertility, and sweetness -
Mint – for clarity, abundance, and energetic refresh -
Lemon – to purify and uplift
Resources
Icons used in the Magical Ingredients box: Icons used in the Magical Ingredients box: Raspberries by Freepik, Lemon by Freepik, Crystals by BiZkettE1 via Vecteezy, Mint by xadartstudio via Freepik
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