Ever been let down when hunting for a good non-alcoholic drink that actually tastes like a real drink? I’ve been there—more times than I care to admit. When I was pregnant, it was one of the biggest struggles. I missed sipping a beer or cocktail at parties, celebrations, and family gatherings. I tried so many mocktails, sodas, and other so-called alternatives, hoping to feel part of the fun. But most of them tasted either fake, boring, or both.
If you ever find yourself in a situation where alcohol is off the table, but still crave the taste and vibe of a real cocktail, you’re in luck. Let me introduce you to my favorite solution: gin mocktails! Specifically, made with TANQUERAY non-alcoholic gin.
Who Are These Drinks For?
Obviously, there are plenty of reasons someone might skip alcohol. Maybe you’re pregnant, focusing on your health, trying out sobriety, driving for the night, or just giving your liver a break. Even the most committed cocktail lovers have moments where alcohol’s off the table.
Picture this: It’s Valentine’s Day, and one of you isn’t drinking. Or you’re throwing a party where half the guests are sipping cocktails, and the other half are going booze-free. In situations like these, everyone should get to enjoy a sophisticated drink in a fancy glass. That’s where gin mocktails shine.
Why Gin?
When it comes to cocktails, gin really stands out for its versatility and unique flavor. It’s a favorite among cocktail lovers. While many brands try to offer non-alcoholic versions of cocktails, most fall flat. That’s why I think TANQUERAY’s non-alcoholic gin is a game-changer. It’s designed to mimic the aromatic and complex nature of traditional gin, using a blend of botanicals, herbs, and spices to get that true gin flavor and the taste of a classic gin cocktail, without the alcohol. Perfect for anyone who wants the experience of a well-made drink, minus the buzz.
The Best Gin Mocktail Recipe + a Few Alternatives
Having tasted numerous non-alcohol alternatives of popular alcoholic drinks, I’d like to proudly share my top pick and my all-time favorite gin mocktail recipe that delivers both the superb taste and authentic vibe to satisfy even the pickiest drinker and perfectly illustrates my point about the flavor of non-alcoholic gin. Since many modern couples find themselves in situations like mine, where only one of the two is a (non-)drinker, this fantastic recipe can be easily flipped to be made with the regular gin as well – so that both people can enjoy their versions of the drink with the same level of flavourness.
Now, let’s get to the recipe! Here’s what you’ll need for the mocktails/cocktails:
1
Citrus&Sage Gin Tonic
Ingredients for mocktail:
- 50 ml non-alcoholic Gin (or 75 ml for a “stronger” taste)
- 150 ml citrus tonic water OR 150 ml tonic water + fresh lemon juice (from half a lime)
- Fresh sage (I highly recommend sage for this recipe but it can be replaced with fresh rosemary or thyme)
- Ice
Ingredients for cocktail:
- 50 ml Gin
- 150 ml citrus tonic water OR 150 ml tonic water + fresh lemon juice (from half a lime)
- A Fresh sage (I highly recommend sage for this recipe, but it can be replaced with fresh rosemary or thyme)
- Ice
Method:
Fill a glass with ice, add the (non-alcoholic) gin and fresh lime juice, then toss in a few slightly crushed sage leaves. Top it off with tonic water. The lime gives it a zesty kick, and the sage adds a subtle, fragrant touch. It’s so refreshing.
I know the Citrus & Sage Gin Tonic is my personal favorite, but we all have different tastes! That’s why I’m serving up a few more delicious alternatives to give you a full range of gin mocktail magic. From the crisp, refreshing combo of cucumber and lime to the sweet, floral notes of berries and rose, these recipes prove one thing: going non-alcoholic doesn’t mean giving up depth of flavor or the joy of a perfectly crafted drink.
So, let’s dive into these sophisticated sips – all the botanical bliss of gin, just without the booze!
2
Cucumber and Lime Fizz
Ingredients:
– 50 ml non-alcoholic gin
– Fresh lime juice (from half a lime)
– 100 ml tonic water
– Sliced cucumber
– Ice
Method:
Combine (non-alcoholic) gin and fresh lime juice in a glass filled with ice. Top up with tonic water and garnish with thin slices of cucumber. The cucumber enhances the botanical flavors of the gin, while the lime adds a refreshing zest.
3
Herbal Garden Delight
Ingredients:
– 20 ml elderflower cordial
– 50 ml (non-alcoholic) gin
– Sparkling water
– Fresh herbs (mint, thyme, or rosemary)
– Lemon peel
– Ice
Method:
Mix the (non-alcoholic) gin with elderflower cordial in a glass filled with ice. Top up with sparkling water and stir gently. Garnish with your choice of fresh herbs and a twist of lemon peel for an aromatic touch.
4
Berry Rose Fizz
Ingredients:
– 50 ml (non-alcoholic) gin
– 20 ml rose syrup
– Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
– Sparkling water
– Ice
Method:
Muddle a handful of berries in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, non-alcoholic gin, and rose syrup. Top up with sparkling water and stir gently. This drink is visually stunning and has a delightful balance of sweet and floral notes.
5
Ginger & Lemongrass Twist
Ingredients:
– 50 ml (non-alcoholic) gin
– 20 ml ginger syrup
– Fresh lemongrass
– Sparkling water
– Lime wedges
– Ice
Method:
Bruise a stalk of lemongrass and place it in a glass with ice. Add the non-alcoholic gin and ginger syrup. Top up with sparkling water and squeeze in a wedge of lime for an extra kick. The ginger and lemongrass create a spicy, refreshing twist.
The Bottom Line
Gin mocktails are a brilliant way to enjoy complex, sophisticated flavors without the alcohol. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or just unwinding on a chill afternoon, these drinks are sure to impress. My personal fave is Citrus & Sage Gin Tonic. Not into sage? Swap it for rosemary or thyme.
Want to make sure everyone’s happy? Keep both alcoholic and non-alcoholic gin on hand, and let your guests choose. Everyone gets a great drink, and no one feels left out. Cheers to that! 🥂
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