Melati launches Asia’s first non-alcoholic aperitif

Singaporean company Melati has released its debut non-alcoholic aperitif, inspired by traditional Asian herbal remedies and the first product of its kind produced in the region.

Drawing on traditional Asian medicinal remedies for inspiration, the product is made from 26 Asian botanicals, including goji berry, hibiscus, raw cacao, chokeberry, ginger, star anise, sencha, red kampot pepper and cinnamon.

Each of these ingredients is meant to contribute to the antioxidant and detoxing qualities of the drink.

The product does not only to fit in the trend of no-ABV beverages, but also to support the growing call for prioritising overall wellbeing.

“Growing up in Singapore, going out and socialising over drinks is the hallmark of our youth,” said founder Lorin Winata. “A few years ago, when visiting my ancestral farmland in Jatiluwih, Bali, it struck me that the Asian botanicals that I had been fed all my life held the secret to making unique and restorative drinks for the modern consumer, who may be looking for a non-alcoholic beverage that is sophisticated, satisfying and healthy to be enjoyed at parties, or to unwind after a long day at work.”

Following the trip, Lorin immediately started studying the botanicals she had grown up with, shortlisting 60 that most intrigued her, before working with an Ayurvedic specialist and food scientist to create the functional drink.

Each botanical is individually treated via traditional cold-extraction for up to six weeks before being hand-blended in Singapore.

The product was developed over the course of two years. It is sweetener-free and vegan, with each serving containing just 12 calories. To ensure optimum quality and freshness, only 500 bottles are produced in each batch.

According to the brand, “at first taste, it is refreshingly fruity with a floral nose and spicy undertones”, with “gentle bitter notes”.

It is recommended serving the ‘spirit’ as a classic spritz, with one-part Melati and one-part tonic or soda water in a wine glass over ice.

The product is now available in Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Odette and Zén, as well as award-winning cocktail bars such as The Old Man and Native in Singapore.

Priced at SGD68 for a 500ml bottle, the product is now available on its website.