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Now, theyve become a standard offering for responsible bars.
Thesemocktails, non-alcoholic beers, and alcohol-free wines claim to mimic the experience of sipping a boozy drink.
Some are too bitter or earthy, while others are basically indistinguishable from fruit juices or sodas.
First, think bigand outside the box.
Were living in the golden age of mocktailsor, as Reiner prefers to call them, zero-proof cocktails.
Modern mixologists are working really hard to go beyond that longtime standard, Warrener says.
You have all of these different things to work with [now], Reiner says.
So get fancy, flex your creative muscles, and try new things if you want.
Choose your non-alcoholic spirit carefully.
With that info in mind, venture to select those that have more distinct and complex flavor profiles.
Otherwise, you risk ending up with a drink that tastes like a mixer.
Which is why Warrener, drawing on his previous tasting experiences, recommends a gin-based one.
Tequila and mezcal are also solid options.
Used correctly, theyre going to help you create a beverage that emulates an actualalcoholicbeverage.
Take the season into account.
Besides, itll hit better that wayofferingsomething refreshingamid the heat and something warming amid the cold.
…but dont be afraid to improvise, either.
you might play around with the ratios, add or subtract ingredients, and experiment away.
Pick flavors that complement each other.
Ingredients that add sweetness include simple syrup and somefruit juices, like pineapple and pomegranate.
Andmilkand somecoffeevarieties pack a fair amount of acidity themselves.
But seriously, dont forget the bitter.
Yep, even if youthinkyou dont like the taste.
Shruba vinegar-based syrup also known as drinking vinegaris a handy little ingredient in this respect.
It kind of tricks the mind into thinking that its an actual alcoholic drink, Reiner says.
Savory ingredients like muddled basil and pickle brine can also help.
And if youre feeling some fizz?
Try adding a splash of tonic water or a sparkling non-alcoholic spiritor evenactualsoda andactualseltzer, according to Reiner.
Dont feel like you oughta shake forever.
Believe us, your wrists will be relieved.
Put some thought into your garnish.
