Tips and tricks for tasty mocktails
Let’s talk mocktails. The n/a movement has been on the rise, and not just for Dry January. Whether you’re taking a break, cutting back, or eliminating alcohol altogether, these tips and tricks for booze-free beverages will make your mocktail-making easy (and tasty!)
Tip #1: Get your favorite cocktail out of your mind.
There are some really great n/a spirits on the market these days, but no matter how great they are, they are generally not going to be able to totally replicate your favorite spirit, and therefore, the mocktail is not going to taste the same as the cocktail. Don’t get your heart set on making a replacement; instead, create something new and different. It can be in the same genre of cocktails that you love, (margarita, moscow mule etc) but make it its own drink-that way you won’t be making the comparison and being disappointed that the mocktail doesn’t measure up.
Tip #2: You don’t need to buy an expensive spirit replacement to make a good mocktail.
In fact, of the hundreds of custom mocktails that I’ve made, I can only think of a couple times where I used a faux spirit. Part of the reasoning was my pride-I wanted to create something amazing for my clients without using the n/a stuff as a crutch. There were a couple instances where I simply had to (think smoked old fashioned!). But, most of the time, I opt to create my own flavors through other ingredients, and I much prefer the result of those!
Tip #3 Layer flavors.
Unfortunately, creating a good mocktail isn’t just as simple as removing the alcohol from your favorite cocktail. Good cocktails utilize layers of flavor, and good mocktails should too. As I mentioned in Tip #2, you don’t necesarily need to use a faux spirit. But you need something to account for that layer. Here are some ways that I create layers of flavor:
infused simple syrups: infuse your simple syrup with spices such as cinnamon or clove, or herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme.
fresh juices: Citrus should always be fresh squeezed, not pre-packaged when possible.
bottled juices and nectars: other juices and nectars can be utilized to add a pop of flavor. For example, bottled pear or pomegrante juice, or mango or peach nectar are all some of my secret ingredients to building flavor in a mocktail or cocktail.
Tip #4: Make it sparkle.
Topping most beverages, including mocktails, with something sparkling can help brighten a drink on the palate. I almost always use an extra ounce or two in my mocktails, to help with dilution. If you just have syrups and juice, you need something to break it up or it’ll likely be too sweet or cloying.
Tip #5: Don’t skip the garnish.
Garnishes aren’t just for our eyes! Using fresh citrus, a cinnamon stick, or a sprig of an herb for a garnish all enhance the flavor of the drink, as we smell them as we sip! But it’s especially important with mocktails, because of the added layer of flavor, as well as the eye candy it provides. If you’re drinking a beverage with a garnish, it will feel more special, and possibly more cocktail-like.
Tip #6: Fancy glassware is key!
If you typically drink cocktails and wine out of nice coupes and wine glasses, use those for your mocktails too! It will make it feel more special, and with that fancy glass filled with a beautiful drink in your hand, you’re less likely to miss the boozy version!
Tip #7: Don’t forget about your guests year-round!
Mocktails have become very popular with our customers within our beverage catering services, so when booking an event, don’t hesitate to ask for those options! It’ll make all of your guests feel thought-of and included! We have a wide range of mocktail options on our beverage catering menus, and we do take requests for custom mocktails as well. We love to make ALL of your guests feel special!
For your at-home sipping, here’s a simple recipe for one of my favorite mocktails.
Blackberry-Thyme Spritz
2 oz blackberry-thyme simple syrup
1 oz fresh lemon
2 oz sparkling water
sprig of thyme or blackberries for garnish
Combine syrup and fresh lemon juice into a glass filled with ice. Stir to combine. Top with sparkling water and garnish with sprig of thyme and/or fresh blackberries.
To make the blackberry-thyme simple syrup: Bring equal parts sugar and water to a boil. Add in roughly the same volume of fresh blackberries. Continue simmering until the blackberries break down and release their juices. Remove from heat and add in fresh sprigs of thyme. Steep for about an hour, or until desired flavor is reached. Strain entire mixture through a mesh strainer. Store in an airtight container in the fridge!