Black Tea Mojito Mocktail

Ingredients

• 8 fresh mint leaves, plus 1 mint sprig for garnish
• 1 ounce fresh lime juice
• 3/4 ounce demerara simple syrup
• 2 ounces chilled strong black tea
• 3 to 4 ounces chilled soda water
• Crushed ice
• 1 lime wheel, for garnish

Directions

1. Place the mint leaves, lime juice, and demerara syrup in a cocktail shaker. Gently press the mint a few times with a muddler or the back of a spoon, just enough to release its scent without shredding it.
2. Add the chilled black tea and a handful of ice. Shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold, about fifteen seconds.
3. Fill a tall glass with crushed ice. Strain the drink into the glass, then top with soda water and give it one gentle stir.
4. Garnish with the mint sprig and lime wheel. Clap the mint between your hands before adding it to the glass to make the aroma pop.