If you have ever wondered whether non-alcoholic spirits could actually deliver on flavor, you are not alone. Our team spent three months testing Seedlip in dozens of cocktail combinations to bring you this comprehensive guide. Whether you are doing Dry January, expecting a baby, or simply want to drink less without sacrificing the ritual of a good mixed drink, this Seedlip cocktails guide covers everything you need to know.
What is Seedlip?
Seedlip is a non-alcoholic distilled spirit brand founded in 2014 by Ben Branson in the United Kingdom. Branson created Seedlip after recognizing a gap in the market for sophisticated alcohol-free options that could actually work in cocktails. The brand quickly became the pioneer of the non-alcoholic spirits movement, inspiring dozens of competitors that followed.
Unlike simple mixers or flavored waters, Seedlip uses a process of macerating, distilling, filtering, and blending botanical ingredients to create complex flavors without alcohol. The numbers in each variety name refer to the calorie content per 100ml serving. Seedlip offers three core varieties: Spice 94, Grove 42, and Garden 108, each designed for different cocktail applications and flavor profiles.
The brand does not claim to taste exactly like whiskey or gin. Instead, Seedlip positions itself as a different ingredient altogether, one that adds depth, aroma, and complexity to mocktails rather than trying to replicate the effects of alcohol. This honest approach is part of what makes Seedlip cocktails so interesting to explore.
Seedlip Spice 94 Review
Spice 94 is the original Seedlip variety and was designed to mimic the warmth of whiskey or aged spirits. The flavor profile centers on allspice, cardamom, and citrus, with a noticeable bitter finish from cascaria bark. When we first opened the bottle, the aroma was surprisingly complex, with warm baking spices jumping out of the glass.
In terms of taste, Spice 94 has an upfront citrus brightness that gives way to deeper, warmer spice notes. The allspice comes through most prominently on the mid-palate, while the finish is dry and slightly bitter. Forum users often describe Spice 94 as having strong clove and citrus notes that are pleasant but not overwhelming. Some find it tastes a bit like a non-alcoholic version of Chartreuse mixed with citrus.
We found Spice 94 works best as a whiskey alternative in cocktails that call for brown spirits. It holds up well against bold mixers and does not get lost in complicated drink constructions. The spice notes also pair surprisingly well with ginger beer, making it an excellent base for a non-alcoholic mule variation.
Seedlip Spice 94 Flavor Profile
The primary tasting notes include allspice berries, cardamom, lemon, and grapefruit. The cascaria bark adds a subtle bitter quality that gives the spirit structure and prevents it from tasting flat. Oak and peppercorns provide warmth and a slight heat that builds on the finish.
One thing to note: Spice 94 does not taste like whiskey or bourbon. If you go in expecting a direct substitute, you will be disappointed. However, if you treat it as its own ingredient with whiskey-like warmth, you will find plenty to love.
Seedlip Grove 42 Review
Grove 42 was designed as a citrus-forward spirit and it delivers exactly what the name suggests. This variety is all about bright, zesty orange and lemon flavors with underlying herbal notes. The inspiration clearly comes from Mediterranean citrus groves, with a freshness that makes it perfect for spritz-style drinks.
The taste is dominated by blood orange and lemongrass, with a subtle sweetness that keeps things balanced. Forum feedback describes Grove 42 as tasting like flat orange LaCroix with slight botanical undertones. Some users find it a bit sweet on its own, but mix it with tonic or soda water and it transforms into something quite refreshing.
We found Grove 42 shines brightest in long, diluting drinks where its citrus character can open up. It also works well with Mediterranean-inspired mixers like rosemary shrub or thyme-infused syrups. If you want a non-alcoholic base for a gin replacement in a Tom Collins-style drink, Grove 42 is your best bet among the three varieties.
Seedlip Grove 42 Flavor Profile
The primary tasting notes include blood orange, lemongrass, mandarin, and a hint of ginger. The citrus is bright and upfront, while the finish has slight herbal warmth that prevents it from tasting like simple orange juice. There is virtually no bitterness in Grove 42, making it the most approachable of the three varieties.
One common complaint from forum users is that Grove 42 can taste artificial or plasticky when sipped neat. We agree that this variety really comes alive only when mixed. Straight, it is pleasant but unremarkable. In cocktails, however, it provides a solid citrus foundation that elevates simple mixed drinks.
Seedlip Garden 108 Review
Garden 108 is the most herbal and garden-fresh of the three varieties, inspired by the English countryside. The flavor profile features prominent pea and hay notes, along with rosemary, thyme, and mint. This variety is the most divisive among forum users, with some praising its sophisticated herbal character and others describing it as tasting like pond water or weak tea.
We found Garden 108 to be an acquired taste. The pea and hay notes are genuinely unique in the non-alcoholic spirits world, and they provide an interesting savory quality that you do not find in the other two varieties. The rosemary and hops add depth, while the mint provides a clean finish that refreshes the palate.
Garden 108 works best in drinks that call for gin, particularly those with cucumber, basil, or other herb-forward ingredients. It also pairs nicely with light, floral mixers. We would not recommend Garden 108 as a base for sweet cocktails, as its herbal character can clash with sugary ingredients.
Seedlip Garden 108 Flavor Profile
The primary tasting notes include garden peas, hay, rosemary, thyme, and mint. The hops add a subtle bitterness that balances the freshness of the herbs. This variety is the most complex and least sweet of the three, making it the best choice for savory or spirit-forward cocktails.
Forum users who dislike Garden 108 often describe it as grassy or vegetal in off-putting ways. We think the key to appreciating Garden 108 is serving it very cold and mixing it with bright, complementary flavors. Sipped alone at room temperature, it can indeed taste like someone is having a vegetable party in your mouth.
Seedlip Cocktail Recipes
Now that you understand what each variety tastes like, let us get into the good stuff: how to make actual drinks. These Seedlip cocktail recipes have been tested by our team and rated for flavor balance, ease of preparation, and overall enjoyment.
Spice 94 Cocktail Recipes
The warm, spicy character of Spice 94 makes it perfect for autumn and winter drinks, or any time you want something cozy without alcohol.
Spice 94 Hot Toddy
This non-alcoholic toddy is perfect for cold evenings when you want something warm and soothing. The recipe makes one serving and takes about 10 minutes from start to finish.
You will need 2 ounces of Seedlip Spice 94, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 4 ounces of boiling water, and a lemon wheel with a star anise pod for garnish. Simply combine the Spice 94 and maple syrup in a heat-safe glass, add the boiling water, and stir gently. Garnish with the lemon wheel and star anise.
The maple syrup rounds out the spice notes beautifully, while the hot water opens up the aromatic qualities of the spirit. This drink delivers warmth and comfort without any alcohol buzz.
Spice 94 Mule
This twist on the classic Moscow Mule replaces vodka with Spice 94 for a non-alcoholic version that still has plenty of bite. The recipe makes one serving and takes about 5 minutes.
You will need 2 ounces of Seedlip Spice 94, 4 ounces of ginger beer, half an ounce of fresh lime juice, and a lime wheel with mint sprig for garnish. Fill a copper mug with ice, add the Spice 94 and lime juice, then top with ginger beer. Stir gently and garnish with the lime wheel and mint.
The ginger beer and Spice 94 were made for each other. The warmth of the spice plays off the crisp bite of the ginger while the lime brightens everything up.
Grove 42 Cocktail Recipes
The bright citrus notes in Grove 42 shine in refreshing, long drinks that are perfect for summer or any time you want something uplifting.
Grove 42 Spritz
This simple spritz is incredibly easy to make and works beautifully as a brunch drink or party punch alternative. The recipe makes one serving and takes about 3 minutes.
You will need 2 ounces of Seedlip Grove 42, 4 ounces of prosecco or non-alcoholic sparkling wine, 2 ounces of soda water, and an orange wheel for garnish. Fill a wine glass with ice, add the Grove 42 and sparkling wine, then top with soda water. Garnish with the orange wheel.
The Grove 42 Spritz is light, refreshing, and visually elegant. The citrus notes from the Grove 42 complement the bubbles without competing with them.
Grove 42 Collins
This non-alcoholic take on the Tom Collins uses Grove 42 as its base and adds bright lemon and sweetness for a classic cocktail experience. The recipe makes one serving and takes about 5 minutes.
You will need 2 ounces of Seedlip Grove 42, 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice, half an ounce of simple syrup, 2 ounces of soda water, and a lemon wheel with cherry for garnish. Shake the Grove 42, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice. Top with soda water and garnish.
The Grove 42 Collins is bright, citrusy, and satisfying. It proves that non-alcoholic cocktails can be just as refreshing as their alcoholic counterparts.
Garden 108 Cocktail Recipes
The herbal, garden-fresh character of Garden 108 pairs wonderfully with botanicals and light mixers. These recipes showcase its unique flavor profile.
Garden 108 Gin Alternative
When you want a non-alcoholic gin alternative for your favorite gin cocktail, Garden 108 is the answer. This recipe makes a non-alcoholic martini variation that is surprisingly sophisticated. The recipe makes one serving and takes about 5 minutes.
You will need 2 ounces of Seedlip Garden 108, half an ounce of dry vermouth or non-alcoholic vermouth alternative, and a cucumber ribbon or olive for garnish. Stir the Garden 108 and vermouth with ice for 30 seconds, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with the cucumber ribbon or olive.
This drink works best with a quality non-alcoholic vermouth alternative. The herbal character of Garden 108 plus the fortified wine notes create something genuinely close to the martini experience without any alcohol.
Garden 108 Cucumber Cooler
This light, refreshing drink showcases the garden-fresh qualities of Garden 108 and is perfect for hot summer days. The recipe makes one serving and takes about 5 minutes.
You will need 2 ounces of Seedlip Garden 108, 3 slices of cucumber, 4 ounces of tonic water, and a sprig of rosemary for garnish. Muddle the cucumber slices gently in a glass, add the Garden 108, then top with tonic water. Stir lightly and garnish with the rosemary.
The rosemary and cucumber with Garden 108 create a cooling, herbal combination that is genuinely refreshing. The tonic adds a pleasant bitterness that balances the fresh herbal notes.
Which Seedlip Variety is Best?
After testing all three varieties extensively, we have some thoughts on which works best for different situations. None of the three is objectively better than the others; they each excel in different applications.
Grove 42 is the most versatile and the easiest to mix. If you are new to Seedlip or want something foolproof for parties, start with Grove 42. It makes the widest range of accessible drinks and offends almost no one.
Spice 94 is the most interesting variety for spirit-forward cocktails. If you want something that adds warmth and complexity to your drinks, Spice 94 delivers. It shines in autumn and winter drinks, hot cocktails, and bold combinations.
Garden 108 is the most niche and requires the most care in mixing. It works brilliantly for specific applications, particularly cucumber-forward gin cocktail variations, but it can easily go wrong if paired with the wrong ingredients. Experienced home bartenders will appreciate what Garden 108 brings to the table.
Seedlip Variety Comparison
Spice 94 offers warm spice, allspice, cardamom, and bitter finish. Grove 42 delivers bright citrus, blood orange, and lemongrass with no bitterness. Garden 108 provides herbal freshness with peas, hay, rosemary, and mint. For neat sipping, Grove 42 is most approachable. For spirit-forward cocktails, Spice 94 performs best. For gin alternatives, Garden 108 is the clear choice.
Where to Buy Seedlip
Seedlip is widely available in the United States and can be purchased from multiple retailers. Individual bottles typically cost around $32 each for 700ml. If you want to try all three varieties without committing to full bottles, look for the Seedlip Trio Giftpack, which usually runs around $45 and includes 100ml of each variety.
Major retailers that carry Seedlip include Total Wine, BevMo, and select Whole Foods locations. Online options include the official Seedlip website and Amazon, though the official site often has the best selection of bundle deals.
Is Seedlip worth the price? Forum consensus suggests that Seedlip is overpriced if you expect it to taste exactly like alcohol or replace your favorite spirit in every situation. However, if you view it as a premium cocktail ingredient that happens to be non-alcoholic, the price becomes more reasonable. Many users recommend starting with a trio pack to find your favorite before buying full bottles.
FAQs
How to make drinks with Seedlip?
Seedlip works best as a cocktail base combined with mixers like tonic, soda water, ginger beer, or sparkling wine. Use a 2:1 ratio of mixer to Seedlip for balanced drinks. Shake or stir with ice depending on the cocktail style, then strain and garnish as you would any cocktail.
What does Seedlip taste like?
Seedlip tastes like a sophisticated botanical infusion rather than alcohol. Spice 94 has warm allspice and citrus notes with a bitter finish. Grove 42 is bright and citrus-forward with blood orange and lemongrass. Garden 108 is herbal with garden peas, rosemary, and mint. None tastes exactly like whiskey, gin, or other spirits.
Is Seedlip worth the price?
Seedlip costs around $32 per 700ml bottle, which many users find expensive for what it delivers. It is not a direct alcohol replacement and works best as a cocktail ingredient rather than something to sip neat. The trio pack at roughly $45 offers better value for trying all three varieties before committing to full bottles.
Which Seedlip variety is best?
Grove 42 is the most versatile and easiest to mix, making it best for beginners. Spice 94 excels in warm, spirit-forward cocktails. Garden 108 works best as a gin alternative in herbal, cucumber-forward drinks. The best variety depends entirely on your taste preferences and intended use.
Does Seedlip make you feel anything?
Seedlip contains no alcohol and therefore produces no buzz, intoxication, or altered state. Some users report a psychological satisfaction from the ritual of mixing and drinking cocktails, but there are no physiological effects beyond those of any non-alcoholic beverage.
Final Thoughts on Seedlip Cocktails
Seedlip has genuinely changed the game for non-alcoholic cocktail options. While the spirits do not taste like alcohol, they offer something different and valuable: complex botanical flavors that can stand up to quality mixers and create genuinely enjoyable drinks. The three varieties each bring something unique to the table, and the best one for you depends entirely on your flavor preferences.
Our team found that Seedlip cocktails work best when you stop thinking of them as alcohol replacements and start treating them as their own category. Spice 94 adds warmth to cold-weather drinks. Grove 42 brings brightness to spritzes and Collins variations. Garden 108 delivers herbal complexity for gin-style cocktails.
If you are doing Dry January, pregnant, or simply want to drink less alcohol without sacrificing the social ritual of cocktail hour, Seedlip is worth exploring. Start with the trio pack to sample all three varieties, then invest in your favorite for home cocktail experimentation.
Have you tried Seedlip cocktails? We would love to hear about your favorite combinations in the comments below. Our team is always testing new recipes and welcome reader suggestions for future drink experiments.
