For anyone who is just starting their sober journey, mocktails are perfect for the holidays.
As I’m nearing my one year sober journey this month, which I am so proud of me, btw, and as the holidays are fast approaching, this topic has been on my mind. During the holidays alcohol consumption doubles and while I am still choosing to be sober out loud, there are many who struggle with wanting to cut back but feel pressure this time of year to still accept that drink. There are other delicious options that still feel celebratory and fun, without the alcohol.
I remember right where I was a year ago, wanting to quit and was finally ready to quit. I had been using wine, my drink of choice, as a means to not face some harsh realities. My 2022 year has been about being awake to those hard things and finally feeling them so I can move through and move on from them. I officially quit drinking December 23, 2021.
Hear more about that part of my story in this very vulnerable podcast episode I did in April 2022 called Choosing to be Sober.
If you’re wanting to keep your sobriety journey going or if you just want to drink less during the holidays, I’ve got 5 delicious mocktails that will keep you social and while not making you sluggish and foggy feeling from drinking alcohol.
5 mocktails to try this holiday season:
Cranberry Spice
Recipe:
1.5 oz sparkling water
2 oz cranberry juice
4 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
2.5 oz apple cider
10 cranberries (plus additional for garnish)
Orange wedge
Directions:
Muddle cranberries and orange wedge in cranberry juice, and then pour in the rest of the ingredients and stir with a spoon. Garnish with cranberries and orange peel and serve on ice.
*From the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Christmas Lights
Recipe:
2 oz cranberry juice
.5 oz lemon juice
2 oz homemade sorrel tea
Dry kombucha
Directions:
Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a champagne flute. Top with kombucha and garnish with a clove-studded orange twist.
*From Jim Wrigley, beverage manager at Ave at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, Grand Cayman
Apple Cranberry Spritzer
Recipe:
Apple juice
Cranberry juice
Sprite/Sparkling Water
Cranberries
Rosemary
Directions:
In a glass mix equal parts apple juice and cranberry juice. Add a dash of Sprite. Garnish with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
*From Jekyll Island Club Resort, Jekyll Island, Georgia
Holiday Mule
Recipe:
.75 oz cinnamon syrup
.75 oz lime juice
.5 oz cranberry juice
Ginger Beer
Directions:
Combine the cinnamon syrup, lime juice, and cranberry juice in a cocktail shaker and shake with ice. Pour into a glass over ice. Top with ginger beer and garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprig sprinkled with a dusting of powdered sugar.
*From XV Beacon, Boston
Blackberry Mocktail
Recipe:
2 muddled blackberries
1.5 oz orange juice
1 oz lemon juice
1 oz Saigon cinnamon syrup*
Directions:
Build all ingredients in a shaker and shake well. Strain into a Collins glass and top with soda water.
Saigon Cinnamon Syrup:
2 tbsp Saigon cinnamon
1 quart water
1 quart white sugar
Directions:
Boil all ingredients while whisking periodically. Let simmer then strain through a chinois (or a fine strainer). Let cool.
*From Matt Tocco at Pinewood Social in Nashville, Tennessee
Take a MOMENT
If you’re looking for something a little simpler you know, grab and go, I recommend trying MOMENT, a natural botanical beverage which lets you drink your meditation. No caffeine or sugar. No fake stuff. MOMENT is my go-to for a refreshing alcohol-free drink after a long day.
Wanna try it? >> Go HERE << and get started with your order!
Each flavor is packed with:
- Refreshing fruits like tropical mangos, blood oranges, and delicious blueberries
- Healthy botanicals such as ginger, hibiscus, and jasmine
- Adaptogens such as L-theanine, ashwagandha, and tulsi
And, if you’re looking for more budget friendly options, because even making mocktails can get pricey, try simply infusing water or flavored sparkling water with fresh fruit or cucumbers. Add a fancy glass, garnish with fresh or frozen fruit and you’ve got yourself a fun beverage that feels celebratory without the expense.
Remember, if you’re on a journey to sobriety or simply choosing to drink less, the holidays can be a challenge. Arm yourself before you arrive to holiday parties with these or any other alcohol free beverage to ensure you prepared and still able to indulge.
However you choose to celebrate this holiday season, cheers to you! 🥂
Sources:
https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/drinks/g3122/christmas-mocktail-recipes/
https://www.beveragedaily.com/Article/2018/12/19/Americans-double-their-drinking-during-the-holidays-dampen-work-productivity
