Alcohol-Free Christmas Aperitifs
How do you get through the holidays without hangovers? Exactly: by not drinking. And that’s absolutely not boring, because these alcohol-free aperitifs are at least as delicious. Still want to take these drinks to an 18+ level? A splash of gin or vodka works wonders.
Rosemary blueberry smash
Mix some lime juice and a small drop of berry syrup with Spa Rood until the flavors are well balanced: fresh and above all not too sweet. Rub a sprig of rosemary between your fingers, so it stays looking nice while releasing its flavors properly. Place it upright in the glass. Finish with blueberries and serve in beautiful, low (whiskey) glasses.
Cucumber grape aperitif
Fill a carafe with water and add cucumber ribbons and pieces of crushed cucumber, so the flavors infuse well into the water. Leave it for a few hours. Put some white grape juice in a glass (preferably cloudy juice from Ekoplaza) and top up with cucumber juice. Add a little Spa Rood if desired, but remember that people who don’t drink alcohol may go home feeling extremely bloated because of it. So not all alcohol-free drinks need to be carbonated. Finish with a little lime juice.
Lemongrass jasmine iced tea
Hang two bags of jasmine tea in a liter of boiling water. Set aside and let cool overnight (this method takes the longest, but tastes the best). Just before serving, pour in a little vanilla syrup (Monin, like you see at coffee bars). Cut the lemongrass into pieces that stick just above the glass and finish with a slice of lime.
Blueberry Basil Shrub
Shrubs are hot, so this mocktail really shouldn’t be missing. Mix half a glass of good apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of sugar. More or less is fine, as long as you use equal amounts of vinegar and sugar. Add blueberries and a handful of fresh basil. Leave in a sealable bottle or jar in the refrigerator for a few nights. Strain the syrup and dilute with sparkling water.
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