5 Mocktails Shaking Up the Non-Alcohol Cocktail Scene
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Cocktails have been a popular choice for socializing and celebrations for decades if not centuries. Some say that the earliest cocktail on record dates back to the early 1800s. Evolving from that first elixir came classic drinks like the Martini and Manhattan. These drinks continue to reign supreme today but in surprising new ways as the non-alcohol wave sweeps through to a new generation. Once synonymous with sophistication and stem glasses, these days the stylish options are plentiful including on-the-go and zero-proof options right out of a bottle or a can.
Classic Cocktails Get a Non-Alcoholic Twist
There are five cocktails that remain consistently requested by restaurant and bar patrons, most establishments now offer a "mocktail” or “zero-proof” section on their beverage menus to provide the same stemmed or tall-glass cocktail experience without the alcohol. The growing trend of sipping cocktails without the side effects is shaking up the industry, with younger people drinking less than older generations did. They’re also discovering that just like taking their coffee on the go, they can now take their favorite cocktails on the go as the zero-proof or “virgin” options can be enjoyed at any time and any place.
The 5 Most Requested Cocktails
If you’re thinking that the most often requested cocktails are too fussy for alcohol free options - think again. Shaken or stirred, there’s no need to wait for a bartender to make these drinks when they’re now accessible right in your home or at any party (no bartender required!) Take a look at the most requested cocktails, explore their history and ingredients and discover options that offer these cocktails as zero-proof alternatives to have on hand or take with you wherever you go.
Margarita
The Margarita is a classic cocktail that has been giving fun party vibes since the 1930s. It's made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, and is typically served in a salt-rimmed glass. This refreshing cocktail is a favorite among many, and it's easy to see why. It's the perfect balance of sweet and sour, and if drank in a traditional margarita glass, the salt rim adds an extra layer of flavor.
Nowadays there’s no need to drink it out of a glass because of the many portable margaritas on the market. Some of our favorites are the Recess Zero Proof Margarita with Adaptogens and the Kul Mocks Strawberry Non-Alcoholic “Mock-arita.”
Manhattan
The Manhattan is another classic cocktail with this one’s inception dating back to the 1800s. It's made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, and is typically garnished with a cherry. This cocktail is a favorite among whiskey lovers and is a great choice for those who enjoy a slightly sweet, yet robust drink.
Several zero-proof bourbon options mimic the flavor. Some to try are Spiritless Kentucky 74 Zero Proof Bourbon Spirit and the Free Spirits Non-Alcoholic Bourbon Spirit, which has an oaky caramel nose followed by a velvety smooth, malty, brown sugar palate - but without the alcohol.
Martini
The Martini is a timeless classic that has been giving upscale vibes since around since the late 1800s. It's made with gin or vodka and vermouth, and has traditionally been served in a chilled glass with an olive or twist of citrus. This cocktail is a favorite among those who enjoy a strong tasting, yet sophisticated drink and the martini glass is one of the most identifiable symbols of cocktail hour. Like the margarita, things don’t get as fussy now as they did in the days characterized on the “Mad Men” TV show.
Martinis can still be had at lunch but this time you can actually get some work done afterward since your head won’t be spinning. There are new ways to bring this classic drink to light without alcohol. Great options to keep on hand when you have a martini craving are Ritual Zero Proof Gin and Strykk Not Vodka - a zero-proof vodka spirit that has warming capsicum and cooling cucumber and menthol - making it a classic pure vodka without the alcohol.
Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing cocktail that originated in Cuba in the early 1900s and screams “beat the heat with me.” It's made with rum, lime juice, sugar, mint, and soda water, and was traditionally served in a tall glass. This cocktail is a favorite among those who enjoy a slightly sweet and minty drink, and it's perfect for warm summer days and pool parties. Mojitos naturally belong in summer coolers and stocked in fridges for your next barbecue.
There are many options for taking this party on the go. For a classic Mojito flavor that you can pop in the cooler and enjoy on the go, there are many options. You can up your drinking game with adaptogens and try the Recess Zero Proof Watermelon Mojito infused with uplifting guayusa and balancing adaptogens (lemon balm and L-theanine.) If you’re looking to get your daily dose of probiotics with your Mojito, drink the Ferm Fatale Zero Proof Cocktail Mojito which is a fermented kombucha mix with a fabulous mojito mint lime flavor. If you want your Mojito to come with a kick of energy, try the NeoZen Non-Alcoholic Mojito Energy Drink which contains 132 mg of natural caffeine as well as vitamin C, B6, B12 and added minerals. Who said you can’t feel healthy after drinking a Mojito?
Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan is a popular cocktail that gained heightened popularity in the 1990s. It's made with vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and lime juice, and was typically served in a martini glass. This cocktail is a favorite among those who enjoy a sweet and fruity drink, and it's often associated with the "Sex and the City" TV show. Like all good ‘90s fashion that is making a comeback, we expect the Cosmo’ is no different, but this round will be admittedly less fussy with a new generation of enthusiasts.
Rather than mess with the thin stemmed martini class it's easy to take a Cosmopolitan on the go. Your pink drink will look great and you’ll feel great drinking it with the ready-to-drink Stellar Zero Proof (Non Alcoholic) Cosmopolitan. Or, do double-duty with your drinks when you have the Ferm Fatale Zero Proof Cosmopolitan - a delicious cranberry lime kombucha mocktail that’s fermented for gut health.
Whatever drink you choose - there’s a zero proof way to make it. Or if convenience and portability is your need then there are plenty of on the go options as well. There’s never been a better time to have a cocktail while also staying true to your health.
