SOFIA TRIANTOY
There is something undeniably summery about a clear glass pitcher filled with fragrant herbs slowly releasing their aromas into cool water. It is a simple daily ritual that has gained remarkable popularity around the world in recent years, bringing together natural flavour, hydration, and effortless enjoyment.
As temperatures rise, many of us look for refreshing drinks that offer flavour and freshness without relying on added sugar. Cold herbal infusions and botanical waters are gradually becoming part of everyday life here as well. When prepared properly, they can easily become one of the season’s favourite healthy habits.
Among the most popular international trends are Cold Brew Tea and Botanical Waters. Unlike traditional iced tea, which is brewed with hot water before being chilled, cold brew relies entirely on time. Herbs are steeped in cold water for several hours in the refrigerator, allowing their aromas and delicate flavours to develop slowly and naturally. The result is a remarkably clean, smooth, and aromatic drink with less bitterness and a softer taste than hot infusions.
Botanical Waters follow a different, yet equally appealing philosophy. Rather than herbal infusions, they are naturally flavoured waters. Fresh herbs, edible flowers, vegetables, or fruit are left to infuse in cold water for several hours, subtly scenting it and transforming everyday hydration into a far more enjoyable experience.
These refreshing drinks also have a long history. Since antiquity, the Greeks, Romans, and many cultures across the Middle East have flavoured water with aromatic plants, flowers, and fruit, both for their pleasant taste and their cooling properties during the warmer months. Today, this ancient practice returns through a contemporary approach that values natural ingredients, quality, and mindful hydration.
Beyond their beautiful aromas and flavours, many aromatic herbs naturally contain polyphenols and other antioxidant compounds. Greek mountain tea is particularly valued for its rich phenolic content, mint provides its signature cooling sensation thanks to menthol, while lemon balm is appreciated for its delicate citrus aroma.
Whether you choose an aromatic Cold Brew Tea or a refreshing Botanical Water, all you need are quality herbs, good water, and a little patience. Cold brewing cannot be rushed—it simply allows time to reveal the herbs’ full character.
Above all, however, these drinks capture the essence of summer: a transparent glass pitcher filled with fresh herbs and fruit, sitting at the centre of a sunlit table.
Try It Yourself
Cold Brew Greek Mountain Tea with Mint & Dried Apple
Ingredients (1 litre)
- 8–10 g dried Greek mountain tea
- 6–8 fresh mint leaves
- 3–4 thin slices of dried apple (unsweetened)
- 1 litre filtered cold water
Method
Place all the ingredients in a glass pitcher. Add the cold water, cover, and refrigerate for 8–12 hours. Strain before serving and enjoy well chilled.
Optional: For a sweeter flavour, add a little honey when serving. To help it dissolve more easily, first mix it with a small amount of lukewarm water before stirring it into the drink.
Botanical Water with Lemon Balm & Cucumber
Ingredients (1 litre)
- A small handful of fresh lemon balm
- 6–8 thin slices of cucumber
- 1 litre filtered cold water
Method
Wash all the ingredients thoroughly and place them in a glass pitcher with the water. Refrigerate for 4–8 hours, allowing the herbs and cucumber to gradually release their aromas. Serve well chilled.
Optional: If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, add a little honey when serving, following the same method as above.
A small tip: For the best flavour, always use good-quality filtered water and glass containers. Both drinks are at their freshest when enjoyed within 10 hours of preparation.
