Mocktails

Words and Photos by Mark Garcia

Three months ago I found out my wife was pregnant. As someone who appreciates a wellcrafted cocktail, I knew it was time to venture into the world of mocktails, seeking out delicious and unique alternatives for both of us to savor. Little did I know that the "zeroproof" spirits market, often overlooked, would surprise me with its hidden gems. Numerous brands have already tapped into the non-alcoholic realm, offering creative packaging and labeling that rival the allure of premium scotch bottles. Being a designer myself, I couldn't settle for something that merely tasted good—I had to fall in love with the packaging too. Yes, I will proudly judge a book by its cover. With the following cocktails, I aim to inspire not only the seasoned home bartenders but also those abstaining from alcohol, craving a taste of the party. While the zero-proof spirit market continues to evolve, you can experiment with simple ingredients to concoct your own mocktails. Just throw them into a shaker, strain into a coupe glass, and voila! Prepare to revel in the admiration of onlookers as they admire your irresistible swagger. But mocktails aren't just about looking cool; they offer incredible health benefits too. Many recipes and zero-proof spirits rely on natural ingredients to create unique flavors. This is precisely why the term "mocktail" falls short—it carries a negative connotation of a boring cocktail. Might as well call them cocktail dupes. However, what makes mocktails truly thrilling is their distinct world of flavors and health benefits, unlike any other beverages. Comparing mocktails to their alcoholic counterparts is simply unfair; rather, kombucha or smoothies are closer relatives. Let's change the name for mocktails, because "non-alcoholic this" and "virgin that" is just a major buzzkill. If you have a better suggestion, let me know! So, thank you to my wife for joining me in going sober and as Ghia so aptly puts it, let’s be "Over the Influence." Now, get ready to savor the experience. Enjoyyyyyy!

2oz Ghia

2 oz ginger beer

Splash of sparkling water

1 lime wedge

Grated lime zest

Pour 2 oz Ghia and mix with 2 oz ginger beer. Stir gently and add a splash of sparkling water. Serve in highball glass on the rocks and garnish with a fresh squeezed lime wedge. Finish with dusting of grated lime zest.

½ oz lemon juice

½ oz orange juice

1 oz vanilla syrup

Club soda

Orange peel

Mint leaves (for garnish)

Add juices and syrup to a champagne flute. Top with club soda. Garnish with orange peel.

2-3”-piece fresh ginger (5oz)

½ cup apple cider vinegar

3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

4-5 fresh chopped basil leaves

4 cups water or club soda

Mint sprigs (for serving)

1. Chop ginger into small pieces and combine with vinegar, maple syrup, lime juice, and basil leaves in a blender. After blending, strain into a large pitcher. Chill until cold.

2. To serve, dilute with water and pour switchel into ice-filled glasses; garnish with mint.

3. DO AHEAD: Base can be made 1 day ahead. Keep chilled.