The BRAVE Cocktails: Purple Courage and The Brave Step

Introduction

Created by George Kottis, Purple Courage and The Brave Step each tell a story about moving beyond fear and choosing action over hesitation.

Purple Courage is a mocktail, so everyone can raise a glass. The Brave Step is a gin cocktail with floral notes of violet and elderflower. Both are made to be enjoyed, and to start a conversation. Here are the stories behind them, and the recipes so you can make them at home.

Purple Courage (mocktail)

The story behind it

Purple Courage is more than a drink. It is a reminder that courage does not always arrive with a loud voice. Sometimes, bravery is found in the quiet decision to take the first step into the unknown.

Inspired by the themes of Brave, this mocktail reflects the journey of personal growth and self-discovery. The deep purple colour pays tribute to the book itself, while the balance of sweet berries, floral lavender and bright citrus symbolises the courage to move beyond fear, challenge avoidance and embrace change.

Like every meaningful transformation, Purple Courage begins gently but leaves a lasting impression.

Ingredients

• 45ml blueberry or blackberry juice
• 20ml fresh lemon juice
• 15ml lavender syrup
• Sparkling water
• Ice
• Fresh blueberries and a lemon twist to garnish

Method

1. Shake the berry juice, lemon juice and lavender syrup with ice.

2. Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.

3. Top up with sparkling water.

4. Garnish with fresh blueberries and a lemon twist.

The Brave Step (cocktail)

The story behind it

The Brave Step celebrates the power of small, courageous choices. Inspired by Sharon Hartley’s message of confronting avoidance and stepping beyond fear, this cocktail represents the moment we choose action over hesitation.

The floral elegance of Crème de Violette and elderflower brings softness and reflection, while the brightness of fresh lemon adds energy and purpose. Together, they create a balance between vulnerability and strength: the very qualities we need to grow, lead and move forward.

Because every journey begins with a single brave step.

Ingredients

• 45ml London Dry Gin
• 15ml Crème de Violette
• 20ml fresh lemon juice
• 15ml elderflower
• Lemon twist and an edible flower to garnish

Method

1. Add the gin, Crème de Violette, lemon juice and elderflower to a shaker with ice.

2. Shake well until chilled.

3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

4. Garnish with a lemon twist and an edible flower.