Thinking about summer brings visions of a refreshing cocktail by the lake, a beer in hand at the grill, or a glass of wine in front of the bonfire… or does it? Gen X is saying, “maybe not,” and leading the way in a beverage revolution featuring some of the most elaborate drink concoctions in recent years, including all the garnishes to go with them, but not necessarily with all the alcohol. Prep your home (or cabin) bar this summer with all the fancy non-alcoholic drinks you can think of (and maybe a few you haven’t yet), pull up a stool, and, as they say, let the good times roll. Mocktail bars are in!

Free Spirit Trend

Ok, we know what you’re thinking. Mocktails? Non-alcoholic drinks? Low ABV? As in Shirley Temples and virgin margaritas? Nope. Not even close.

This season is all about mixology. Imagine the fanciest drink you can think of, complete with the skewer of fruits, citrus slices or sprigs of herbs. Now subtract the alcohol from that vision without sacrificing any of the flavor or ambience of the experience, and you’ll understand what the free spirit trend is trying to achieve.

Low- or no- alcohol drinks are on the rise due to an increasing number of adults wishing to avoid alcohol for many reasons, including health and cost. Non-alcoholic drinks, or mocktails, are popping up everywhere on spirit driven menus, and are even the basis for some sober bars. Bartenders everywhere are striving to meet the demand, and you can do the same at home!

Get Started

Bring your sense of adventure to your next gathering with a mocktail or cocktail for the occasion. Stock your wine island with alcohol free drink bases, such as club soda, ginger beer, or a favorite juice and get mixing! If you’re not ready to completely ditch certain flavors found in specific liquors, look for a complimentary spirit containing alcohol or one that’s alcohol free to compliment your drink of choice. Go beachy with sweet pineapple, orange and lime juices mixed with grenadine topped with luscious cherries or orange slices. Or maybe keep it less sugary with a simple flavored club soda paired with a seasonal berry and herbal garnish. Create your own fruit purees or simple syrups to tweak a classic drink and your guests will be begging for another!

Sip in the Sun

Be prepared to bring your new flavorful concoction outside to really get in the spirit of summer. But please, this doesn’t mean you need a beer koozie. Instead, stash your drink ingredients in a stylish ice bucket table on the porch or be mobile with an ice filled beverage bucket. Both double to keep your ingredients cool and have ice readily accessible for the next drink refill. And when the sun goes down, switch out the cool beverages for something warm while sitting by the fire pit. A hot toddy featuring green tea or a s’mores themed hot chocolate are the perfect way to end a busy summer day, with or without alcohol!

Garnishes Galore

Whether you're sipping outside or in, don’t forget the garnishes! Bloody Mary’s don’t get to have all the fun anymore. Once you’ve concocted your new delight, top it! Berries are great for summer, but let’s not forget about herb sprigs, citrus slices, cherries, olives, peaches, cucumbers or even jalapenos. Depending on the drink, you may even want to coat the rim of the glass in sugar, salt or more.

Don’t let the kids, expectant mothers, and designated drivers have all the fun–get in on the non-alcoholic drink craze and let the summer vibes roll! Start mixing and matching flavors to find the perfect drink for any occasion. You might be surprised just how good a mocktail can be! Keep the adult mixers nearby to quickly change your mocktail to a cocktail, and you’re ready for anything.