Christmas parties can be difficult for non-drinkers to navigate, whether you are not drinking because you are driving or because you are in recovery and don’t drink, or maybe you just prefer the taste of mocktails, it’s hard to avoid the fact that alcohol seems to play a huge part in how we celebrate Christmas, especially in the UK.
At parties, it isn’t unusual for the non-drinker to be greeted with a look of surprise when asking for an alcohol-free beverage, often followed by an awkward reply of ‘we have water and… orange juice or coke’. Enough to dampen any Christmas cheer. We have collected a few grown-up mocktails to help the non-drinker through the festive season – just one warning: make sure you make enough because you’ll probably find that everyone else will want some too!
A note to hosts: As with any food or drink, the presentation makes all the difference. Prepare non-alcoholic drinks as you would alcoholic drinks – don’t offer a can of coke, instead make the non-drinker feel special by serving the drink in an attractive glass with ice and lemon.
What is a Mocktail?
“Mocktail” is an alcohol-free mixed drink cocktail made with various combinations of fresh juices, spritzer, and soft drinks, ideally dressed up with fancy garnish.
At Castle Craig we aim to offer enjoyment of non-alcoholic drinks to our residents, we recommend the range of Bottle Green cordials, mixed with sparkling water as a way to enjoy beverages without alcohol.
A Word of Caution for those in Recovery
We always caution our sober readers who are in recovery from alcoholism about the potential for alcohol-free mocktails, alcohol-free beer or wine to trigger their cravings for alcohol. If you think this might be a trigger, no matter how long you have been sober, then stick with simple chilled water with a twist of lemon or a soft drink.
Below are some of our favourite wintertime mocktails to enjoy during the holiday season.
Peter McCann’s Castle Craig Spicy Christmas Punch (Serves 6)
Christmas Eve at Castle Craig is traditionally celebrated with Peter McCann’s spicy non-alcoholic punch.
- 1 litre apple juice
- 500ml orange juice
- 200ml water
- A good slug of ginger cordial (enough to make it firey)
- Slices of orange
- 16 whole cloves
- 2 Cinnamon sticks
- 1 dessert spoonof sugar
- Place all ingredients in a saucepan. Heat the mixture and simmer gently over a low heat for about 10 minutes (do not boil).
- Pour the warm punch into warm glasses, making sure everyone gets a slice of orange.
Non-Alcoholic Eggnog Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Optional Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
Whisk the Eggs and Sugar:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth and pale in colour.
Heat the Milk Mixture:
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
Heat the mixture gently until it reaches 160°F (71°C) on a thermometer. Be careful not to let it boil, as this could curdle the eggs.
Add Flavorings:
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Cool the Eggnog:
Pour the eggnog into a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours or until cold.
Serve:
Once chilled, pour the eggnog into glasses. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for garnish. Add a cinnamon stick if desired.
Tips:
- For a frothy texture, blend the eggnog in a blender before serving.
- If you prefer a sweeter eggnog, add an extra tablespoon of sugar during the whisking step.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Here’s a delightful Pomegranate Winter Mocktail recipe that’s perfect for the season – vibrant, refreshing, and packed with festive flair!
Pomegranate Sparkle Mocktail
Here’s a delightful Pomegranate Winter Mocktail recipe that’s perfect for the season – vibrant, refreshing, and packed with festive flair!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pomegranate juice (unsweetened for tanginess or sweetened for a mellow flavour)
- 1/2 cup orange juice or lemonade
- 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or simple syrup (optional, adjust for sweetness)
- Ice cubes
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish
- Orange slices or lime wedges for garnish
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Glasses: Fill your glasses with ice cubes.
- Mix the Base: In a shaker or pitcher, combine the pomegranate juice, orange juice (or lemonade), lime juice, and honey/simple syrup if using. Stir or shake until well mixed.
- Add the Sparkle: Just before serving, pour in the sparkling water or club soda. Gently stir to maintain the fizz.
- Assemble the Mocktail: Pour the mixture into the prepared glasses.
- Garnish: Sprinkle a few pomegranate seeds on top of each drink. Add an orange slice or lime wedge to the rim. Finish with a sprig of mint for a festive touch.
No Alcohol Bloody Mary
- 300ml tomato juice
- 1 lemon, juiced
- ½ tsp Tabasco sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Pinch of salt
- Celery stick
- ice cubes
- Mix the tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, salt and ice cubes. Taste and add any additional seasonings.
- Pour into a tall glass and garnish with celery stick.
