Mocktails have been gaining popularity the last several years due to consumers' growing interest in their health and overall wellbeing. Whether you're participating in Dry January or exploring a world sans alcohol, these alcohol free beverages could be a good place to start.
This past November, Northwest Columbus Lifestyle hosted a Sip & Savor event at CoHatch Worthington where 40 guests gathered to sample five alcohol-free spirits. Below are the alternatives and reactions from the guest list:
Ritual Zero Proof Apertif Alternative
Flavors of orange blossom, Victoria rhubarb, and charred grapefruit give this award-winning aperitif substitute aromatic, bold flavors that mix beautifully in a Negroni or Spritz.
Opinion: “This is a solid representation of Aperol without the oil. It doesn’t cling to your mouth like real alcohol.” Christopher Yeoman, MyoBio
Seedlip Garden 108
A clear spirit with complex green flavors like garden peas, hay, spearmint rosemary and thyme, this pairs well with club soda and lemon.
Opinion: “I’m a plant lover. This reminds me of flowers and herbs. It tastes like spring.” Char Stille, Holderbaum Painting
Undone - This Is Not Mezcal
Flavored to mimic the taste of tequila, this is a floral liquid with notes of cooked agave and pumpkin with a subtle smokiness and hints of pear.
Opinion: “It tastes much better when paired with other beverages like tonic.” Angela Cua, Cua Builders
DHŌS Orange Non Alcoholic Liqueur
Designed to mimic triple-sec, DHŌS Orange is handcrafted with natural extracts and essences of citrus fruits.
Opinion: “It smells like donuts.” Jonathan Anglin, Hedman Anglin Agency
Kentucky 74
An award-winning, non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon cocktails, Kentucky 74 delivers a high quality, smooth finish with underpinnings of caramel, vanilla and oak.
Opinion: “It smells woody. It tastes the most like what it’s supposed to be.” Paxton Hale, Precision Health & Wellness
Cup of Comfort recipe
Ingredients
1.5 oz Dhōs Orange, .5 oz honey simple, .25 oz fresh lemon juice, 2 oz hot chai tea, 2 dashes Dhōs Bittersweet star anise
Preparation
Combine "cold" ingredients in glass. Quick stir to combine. Add hot chai tea. Garnish with star anise and lemon peel.