This year, from January 14 to 20, we’re raising our glasses to National Mocktail Week, a celebration of the delicious world of non-alcoholic drinks. Whether you’re a teetotaler, taking a break from alcohol, or just exploring new tastes, mocktails offer a refreshing and inclusive way to enjoy the art of mixology.
The evolution of mocktails
While the exact origins of mocktails are a bit of a mystery, they’ve been around since at least the early 20th century. Originally known as ‘temperance drinks’ or ‘coolers’, these non-alcoholic drinks became very popular. In fact, one of the earliest was lemonade!
During Prohibition, mocktails gained significant traction as bartenders strived to create enticing non-alcoholic versions of popular cocktails. However, post-Prohibition saw a decline in their popularity, with mocktails being relegated mostly to children’s parties.
But, as we’ve seen in recent years, there’s been a significant revival. National Mocktail Week, founded by Marnie Rae, a 17-year sober enthusiast of non-alcoholic beverages.
Here are some alcohol-free concoctions you can try out this week and all year round:
- The Virgin Mojito: A zesty and refreshing drink that combines fresh mint leaves, lime juice, sugar and soda water. It’s a perfect pick-me-up with a punch of citrus and mint.
- Non-Alcoholic Sangria: This mocktail is a fruit lover’s paradise. Mix together a variety of chopped fruits like oranges, lemons and berries with grape juice and sparkling water. It’s a colorful and fruity delight that’s great for parties.
- Cucumber Cooler: For something crisp and refreshing, try a cucumber cooler. Blend fresh cucumber with lime juice, a touch of sugar syrup and soda water. It’s hydrating and incredibly fresh, perfect for a relaxing evening.
- No-Tequila Sunrise: Mix orange juice with a splash of grenadine for a stunning gradient effect. Garnish with a cherry or an orange slice for the full sunrise effect.
- Berry Lemonade Fizz: A twist on the classic lemonade, this mocktail blends fresh lemon juice, berry puree and sparkling water. It’s sweet, tangy, and effervescent, making it a delightful sipper.
Whether you’re at a bar, hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, there’s a mocktail for every occasion. So let’s toast to the mocktail revolution and savor the art of mixology in its most inclusive form!
What were your favorite mocktails? Share them with the Shop Talk community!
Did you know? Shirley and the Shirley Temple
The Shirley Temple — traditionally made with ginger ale, a splash of grenadine and garnished with a maraschino cherry — is a mocktail invented in honor of the young actress. Shirley actually hated the drink: “The saccharine sweet, icky drink? Too sweet!”