Ingredients
- 4 oz Orange Juice
- 3 oz Lemon Soda
- 1 tsp Raspberry Puree
Instructions
- Add to an ice filled wine goblet.
Estimated Nutrition:
Where it came from
This Mandate is a modern bar creation, a testament to the growing demand for sophisticated non-alcoholic options. It doesn’t trace back to a specific speakeasy or golden age, but rather emerged from the need for vibrant, alcohol-free choices on any menu. You’ll find variations of this simple formula popping up in bars and cafes worldwide, particularly where inclusivity is a focus.
The Mandate fits squarely into the non-alcoholic highball family, a close relative of a Shirley Temple or a Virgin Mojito. What sets it apart is the specific combination of orange and lemon soda, with the raspberry puree providing a distinct, fruity signature. It’s less sweet than many mocktails, offering a more balanced citrus-berry profile.
You’d typically order or serve a Mandate at brunch, a casual lunch, or as a refreshing option at an outdoor event. It's a great offering at a bar that wants to cater to all patrons, not just those drinking alcohol. It also works well as a light, palate-cleansing drink between heavier courses or richer cocktails.
What it tastes like
The Mandate leads with the bright, sweet-tart notes of orange juice, which provides the primary body and fruitiness. This is quickly followed by the effervescent, zesty kick of lemon soda, adding a crisp, refreshing tartness and a pleasant fizz. The finish introduces a subtle, slightly jammy raspberry note that lingers on the palate, rounding out the citrus with a touch of berry sweetness.
This Mandate is entirely non-alcoholic, registering a clean 0.0 ABV. You’re looking at something as light and refreshing as a glass of sparkling water or juice, offering all the flavor without any of the buzz found in a standard beer or spirit-based cocktail. It’s designed for pure refreshment, not for effect.
The technique
Building a Mandate is straightforward. Start by filling your wine goblet generously with fresh ice. Pour in the orange juice, followed by the raspberry puree. Give it a quick, gentle stir to combine these denser ingredients. Finally, top it off with the lemon soda, pouring slowly to preserve its effervescence. A light, final swirl is all it needs before serving.
The most important technique for the Mandate is to treat the soda gently. After combining your juice and puree, pour the lemon soda slowly over the ice, allowing it to mix without losing its carbonation. Over-stirring or pouring the soda too aggressively will flatten the drink, leaving it dull and lacking its signature lively sparkle. Keep that fizz intact for maximum refreshment.
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Ingredient Spotlight
The bottles that make or break this drink.
Orange Juice
- Use
- Freshly squeezed orange juice is always best for its vibrant flavor and natural sweetness. If fresh isn’t an option, a good quality, not-from-concentrate carton juice like Tropicana Pure Premium or Simply Orange will work in a pinch.
- Skip
- Avoid orange juice from concentrate or any with added sugars or artificial flavors. These often have a dull, processed taste that will cheapen the drink and throw off its balance.
- Why
- Orange juice forms the sweet, citrusy backbone of the Mandate. It provides the primary fruit flavor and body, balancing the tartness of the lemon soda and carrying the raspberry notes.
Raspberry Puree
- Use
- A high-quality commercial raspberry puree or one made fresh by blending fresh or frozen raspberries with a touch of water and straining. Brands like Monin or Funkin make good purees.
- Skip
- Avoid thin raspberry syrups that are mostly sugar and artificial flavor. These lack the natural fruit body and tartness that the puree brings to the Mandate.
- Why
- Raspberry puree provides the Mandate’s signature berry note and contributes a vibrant color. It adds a natural tartness and sweetness that a simple syrup can’t replicate, giving the drink its depth beyond basic citrus.
Three Variations
Three real ways bartenders riff on this drink. Same idea, three different jackets.
Spiked Mandate
- Add a shot of your preferred spirit for an alcoholic kick.
- For an adult version, add 1.5 oz of gin, vodka, or a light rum to the goblet before the juice. Gin enhances the botanical notes, vodka keeps it clean, and rum adds a touch of tropical sweetness.
Berry Swap
- Change the berry puree for a different fruit profile.
- Substitute the raspberry puree with blackberry, strawberry, or even a mixed berry puree. Each swap will slightly alter the drink’s color and introduce a new fruit dimension to the citrus base.
Soda Switch
- Alter the fizz and sweetness with a different soda.
- Instead of lemon soda, try ginger ale for a spicier, sweeter drink, or club soda with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a drier, more tart profile. Lemon-lime soda works for a sweeter, more familiar taste.
What if I don't have…
Quick substitutions for when the bottle shop is closed.
Pineapple juice or grapefruit juice can work for a different citrus-tropical profile, though the flavor will shift considerably. Apple juice could also be a very mild substitute.
Use a lemon-lime soda like Sprite or 7-Up for a sweeter option, or combine club soda with a fresh squeeze of lemon or lime for a drier, more tart finish.
Muddle a few fresh raspberries in the bottom of the glass, or use a dash of grenadine for a similar color and a mild, generic berry sweetness. A strawberry puree is also a good option.
A standard highball glass, a large rocks glass, or even a pint glass will work. The key is enough capacity for ice and liquid, plus room for the fizz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people search for after Googling this drink.
What is in a Mandate?
A Mandate typically contains orange juice, lemon soda, and raspberry puree, served over ice.
Is the Mandate alcoholic?
No, the Mandate is a non-alcoholic mocktail. It contains no spirits or alcoholic ingredients.
Can I make the Mandate sweeter or more tart?
To make it sweeter, add a small amount of simple syrup or a touch more orange juice. For more tartness, increase the lemon soda or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
What kind of orange juice should I use?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is ideal. If using bottled, choose a high-quality, not-from-concentrate option without added sugars.
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of puree?
Yes, you can muddle 5-7 fresh raspberries in the bottom of the goblet before adding ice and other ingredients. This will give a fresher, more textural berry note.
What’s a good pairing for the Mandate?
Its refreshing, fruity profile pairs well with light brunch dishes, salads, or spicy foods. It also works as a palate cleanser with rich desserts.
Is this a good summer drink?
Absolutely. Its bright citrus, berry notes, and effervescence make it an excellent choice for hot weather and outdoor gatherings.
Can I make a big batch?
Yes, you can pre-mix the orange juice and raspberry puree in a pitcher. When serving, pour the mixture over ice and top with lemon soda in individual glasses to maintain fizz.
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This was a delight to make!
This Mandate cocktail recipe is a game-changer! The mix of flavors is mind-blowing. Cheers!
I love the unexpected combo in Mandate – its like a party in a glass!
Wow, the Mandate cocktail recipe is a flavor explosion! Cant wait to try it!
Wow, the Mandate cocktail is a flavor explosion! Love the unexpected combo of ingredients. Cheers!
I love how Mandate cocktail blends citrus with spice, a flavor adventure in a glass!