Mixology myth #1: zero-proof drinks are nowhere near as tasty as their alcoholic counterparts.
While it can be a challenge to inject “mocktails” with the same amount of sparkle as spirited drinks, it’s not an impossible feat. Here are three delightfully easy recipes that will satisfy any drinker — whether they choose to imbibe or not.
1. The ‘Mary Smith’
This non-alcoholic cocktail is named after Vancouver’s own Mary Ellen Smith, who was the first woman elected to the B.C. Legislature and who played a hand in bringing prohibition to Canada (hey, times have changed). With a unique blend of cucumber, apple and citrus notes — and a hint of jasmine green tea — this cocktail will make you want to detox.
Tools
- Jigger
- Barspoon
Glassware
- Large collins
Ingredients
- 1 oz Chasers cucumber juice
- 1 oz Chasers apple juice
- 0.5 oz honey water (1 part water, 1 part honey)
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 3.0 oz Tealeaves Floral Jasmine Green Tea
Method
- Add ice to glass
- Build ingredients over ice
- Stir to incorporate
Garnish
- Cucumber slices
2. The Cypress
Inspired by one of the North Shore’s famous local mountains, ‘The Cypress’ cocktail is comprised of a special Mountain Berry Tea blend that includes raspberries and blackberries, with the egg white foam acting as the snowy peaks. This concoction may be zero proof, but I can guarantee it will lift your spirits.
Tools
- Boston shaker
- Hawthorne strainer
- Fine mesh strainer
- Jigger
Glassware
- Coupe
Ingredients
- 2 oz Tealeaves Mountain Berry Tea
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz honey water (1 part water, 1 part honey)
- 0.75 oz egg white (whipped to a foam)
Method
- Pre-chill a coupe glass
- Add all ingredients to shaker
- Add ice and shake for 15 seconds
- Double strain to coupe glass
- Top with egg white foam
Garnish
- Fresh berries
3. Get Me Out of The Rain
As the long, wet winter approaches, this mocktail version of the classic Dark ‘n’ Stormy brings to mind memories of sunnier days. Ditch the rum and let the ginger beer shine in this lime- and hibiscus-infused concoction.
Tools
- Jigger
- Barspoon
Glassware
- Large collins
Recipe
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.75 oz hibiscus syrup
- 4 oz Grace ginger beer
Method
- Build over ice in a collins glass
Garnish
- Cinnamon stick