Kombucha

Infusions of green, oolong, or black tea form the base; a SCOBY – a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast – first ferments the added sugar into alcohol, which acetic acid bacteria then further convert into organic acids. This process creates tension, acidity, and a fine, vibrant texture. The caffeine contained in the tea is lost during fermentation.

Depending on the style, a second fermentation uses a composition of fruits and their juices, herbs, hops or wood to add accents and sharpen the signature.

Fermentation doesn't have to be limited to tea: More and more producers are working with herbal infusions (tisanes), coffee, or even dealcoholized wine. This opens up new possibilities – unique and aromatically diverse.