How to Enjoy a Goldfinch...

A relaxed guide to serving it simply—or building a great non-alcoholic cocktail around it

Goldfinch is a ready-to-drink kava tonic made for grownups who want to unwind without checking out. Ginger-forward with a slow-building smolder, mellowed by just the right amount of honey, it’s satisfying on its own and a versatile base for no-proof cocktails.

Below, you’ll find easy ways to enjoy Goldfinch, whether you're sipping solo, splitting a can with a friend, or building a more dressed-up drink.

These are all non-alcoholic suggestions. We don’t mix kava and alcohol, much like how you wouldn’t combine alcohol with ibuprofen... or acetaminophen... or several other things that stresses your liver. So, give your liver a break and enjoy one or the other. Not both.

The Standard Serve

Before you do anything else, give the can a gentle shake or swirl. Kava can settle over time, and a light mix brings it back into balance.

Goldfinch comes in a 7.5 oz can, with 500 mg of 30% kavalactones. That’s 150 mg of active kavalactones per can—a common serving. A full can is a standard serving, but you may find that half a can (75 mg of kavalactones) is enough to feel the effects. Kava affects everyone a little differently, and with regular use, some people find they feel its effects more strongly over time—a phenomenon called 'reverse tolerance.'

To serve:

  • Pour half a can (3.75 oz) into a rocks glass over ice
  • Garnish with a citrus twist (like orange or grapefruit), or a sprig of mint or rosemary
  • Serve it with the can, or split the rest with a friend

It’s simple, intentional, and grounded—the kind of drink that sets a tone without demanding too much.

Ingredients That Pair Well with Goldfinch

Goldfinch already has some bold personality. So when mixing, choose ingredients that highlight or contrast its key notes: ginger heat, mellow honey, and earthy kava. Here are a few that work well:

  • Citrus juice (lemon, lime, grapefruit): Cuts through the ginger, wakes up the palate
  • Herbs (mint, rosemary, basil): Add cooling or savory aromatics
  • Sparkling mixers (soda water, dry ginger beer, yuzu soda): Add effervescence without sweetness
  • Coconut water or cucumber juice: Smooth out the spice, add hydration
  • Bitters or shrubs: Bring in complexity without tipping things too sweet

Since Goldfinch already includes honey, steer clear of extra sweeteners unless you’re intentionally going for a dessert-style profile.

Three Non-Alcoholic Kava Cocktails Featuring Goldfinch

Each recipe below uses either a full can (7.5 oz, for one person) or a half can (3.75 oz, for two drinks). Glass styles and ice usage are clearly noted so it’s easy to serve, even if you’re not a cocktail expert.

1. Golden Hour Highball

A bright, lightly fizzy way to start the evening or pair with a late afternoon snack.

Serves: 2

Glass: Highball glass, served over ice

Ingredients (per glass):

  • 3.75 oz Goldfinch (½ can total)
  • 2 oz sparkling yuzu soda or club soda
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon
  • Garnish: Lemon wheel and sprig of thyme

Why people like it:
It’s easygoing, refreshing, and lightly herbal—perfect for backyard hangs, book clubs, or the kind of dinner parties where people actually talk to each other. The bubbles lift the ginger while the yuzu and citrus give it a crisp edge.

2. The Honeyfire

Rooted, spiced, and quietly intriguing—a cozy companion for reflective evenings.

Serves: 1

Glass: Rocks glass, served over a large ice cube

Ingredients:

  • Full can of Goldfinch (7.5 oz)
  • Dash of aromatic bitters or a pinch of ground cardamom
  • ¼ oz lime juice
  • Garnish: Orange twist and candied ginger skewer

Why people like it:
The bitters and lime give the drink added structure and brightness while keeping its grounded warmth. It's a slow-sipper with depth—perfect for when you want something that matches a thoughtful, easygoing mood.

3. Night Market Cooler

Smooth and refreshing, with a whisper of heat and a tropical feel.

Serves: 2

Glass: Highball glass, served over ice

Ingredients (per glass):

  • 3.75 oz Goldfinch (½ can total)
  • 2 oz unsweetened coconut water
  • ¼ oz lime juice
  • Garnish: Fresh mint and a thin slice of Thai chili for aroma - add more for additional heat.

Why people like it:
This one smooths the edges of the ginger with a creamy coconut note, but still keeps the drink light and vibrant. It’s great for daytime sipping, pairing with spicy food, or serving when you want something refreshing.

Before You Float Off...

Goldfinch is striking alone and flexible by design. Whether you're pouring it over ice and calling it a night, or building a cocktail with layers and garnish, it gives you something to savor, and something to share.

Let us know how you serve your Goldfinch—we’re always gathering inspiration from the people who enjoy it most.

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