Designated driver? End of year detox? Pregnant? Although many of us look forward to enjoying a drink on Christmas day, there are many people out there who can't enjoy a tipple during the festive season. There are a number of reasons why people choose not to drink, from personal preference to health reasons. Research from online artisan food and drink marketplace, Tabl, reveals that for 1 in 5 people, Christmas is all about food and alcohol. But the festive season and New Year celebrations, often defined by alcohol, shouldn't stop non-drinkers from enjoying the festivities and the drinks on offer.
Here are my top five mocktail ideas for the festive season:
1.Cranberry Sparkler
Cranberries are a true sign of Christmas. Freeze some over-night, and mix with raspberry and cranberry juice, squeezed lime and sparkling water to create a thirst quenching festive drink that will be the envy of everyone else at your event. Add a drop of honey (check out this localised London brand) an umbrella and a colourful straw and you have yourself a stunning drink that will be the centre piece of pictures.
2.Ginger Ale and Lime Pom
Courtesy of Nigella Lawson, this festive mocktail is so delicious you'll be wanting to make it throughout the whole year. Fill a pitcher two thirds of the way with ginger ale, then add a generous helping of lime cordial, topped with the juice of two fresh limes. Add ice, and a lime garnish for a refreshing finishing touch.
3.Non Alcoholic Tropical Fizz
Cram kiwis, strawberries and pineapple into a jug then top with apple juice, pineapple juice and lemonade to add a tropical twist to a festive party. If you're looking for a pre-made mix with a bit of a kick, you could try out NIX&KIX's chilli-infused soft drinks. They don't contain fizz but you can add lemonade to turn them into some sparkling fun!
4.Non-alcoholic French 75
If everyone else is drinking champagne and you want to give off the impression that you are too, the non-alcoholic French 75 is perfect for you. Traditionally made with champagne, the non-alcoholic version substitutes with tonic water. Simply add the juice of three lemons and three oranges to ice and shake in a cocktail maker until frosty. Decant into champagne flutes and top with tonic water until three quarters of the way full. Or if you love the taste of sparkling wine, try out a non-alcoholic version such as Botonique's crisp dry white.
5.Ombre grapefruit cocktail
Ombre has been popular this year, so keep your mocktails on trend with this arty, colourful drink. Fill a champagne flute half way with grapefruit juice. Next, add a dash of sugar syrup and top off with lemonade. Finally, add a generous helping of grenadine to create the pink-orange ombre effect.