by Natalie Halt
The movement that is imbibing without alcohol is gaining momentum and has been for quite some time now. The benefit of waking up after a night of “partying” on alcohol-free beverages without a hint of a hangover is undeniable. And the alternative options available can fool even the alcohol purist at heart. Or so they say. We gathered some of our favorite ingredients and set out to create an inspired menu of 'Zero-proof cocktails' that is anything but “mock.” Word of advice, your glassware and garnish are imperative. Choose wisely. Santé!
The Pomegranate Pastis
What You’ll Need
- ¼ oz NA pastis
- 2 oz Aperitif Rebel “Vermouth”
- 1 oz Giselle 0%
- 1 cs pomegranate seeds
- 1 sprig of thyme
What You’ll Do
Muddle pomegranate seeds and thyme. Add the pastis, Giselle, and ice to a shaker. You know what to do. Strain into a sexy glass and garnish with a pretty sprig of thyme and a few pomegranate floaters.
Gin & Spice
What You’ll Need
- 3 grapefruit slices
- 8 juniper berries
- 3 oz Rebel Gin
- 2 oz tisane “gin” *
- ½ oz lavender syrup
- Bitters
What You’ll Do
Muddle grapefruit slices with juniper berries in a shaker. Add gin, tisane, syrup, and ice, and shake. Double strain into a glass and garnish with a star anis or grapefruit peel and a few drops of bitters.
*Tisane “gin”: 10 whole cardamon, 10 juniper berries, 5 coriander seeds, fennel seeds, 4 star anise: add 2 cups of water and simmer on low for 15 minutes minimum (overnight for maximum effect). Enjoy the leftovers as an amazing infusion.
The Matcha Mint Gimlet
What You’ll Need
- 1 oz matcha tea
- 2 oz Rebels gin
- ½ oz Gimber
- ½ lime
- 1/4 oz peppermint syrup *
What You’ll Do
Shake tea, gin, gimber, syrup, lime, and ice. Strain and garnish with peppermint sprig.
*Peppermint syrup: simmer 3 sprigs of peppermint with 3 CS of sugar and 1 cup of water. Let cool as it steeps for at least 15 minutes.
The Smoking Sage
What You’ll Need
- ½ blood orange (with peel)
- 3 sage leaves
- 2 oz. Rum alternative
- 1 oz strong English breakfast tea
- 1/2 oz Giselle 0%
- ¼ oz Gimber
- Juice of 1 lime
What You’ll Do
Muddle chopped pieces of blood orange with 2 sage leaves in a shaker. Add rum, tea, Giselle, vanilla, and lime. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously like you mean it. Strain into the fanciest glass from your cupboard and garnish with a sage leaf. Set it on fire for a sec to “rub” your NA cocktail and elevate the experience entirely.
