Warming Up with Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Beautiful pink mocktails with lemon wedge and non-alcoholic spirits

As time goes on, more and more adults are saying goodbye to alcoholic wine, spirits, and beer – or at least limiting their intake. That’s why non-alcoholic spirits and other beverages have become so popular. A tasty substitute for liquors, non-alcoholic spirits taste nearly identical to the real thing – and come without the guilt of an impending hangover. Here, Joe Canal’s in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, discusses non-alcoholic spirits, how they’re made, and how to use them effectively.

What Are Non-Alcoholic Spirits?

Legally, all non-alcoholic products must contain no more than 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV). Although these spirits are considered non-alcoholic, it’s still possible for trace amounts of alcohol to be left behind after production processes. There are two main ways to create non-alcoholic spirits, including:

Preventing Alcohol Formation

During the distillation process for spirits, alcohol is naturally created. The longer a spirit distills, the higher the alcohol content will be (usually around 30% ABV for most liquors). By stopping the fermentation sooner, producers can create spirits with the same ingredients and very similar tastes – just with .5% ABV or less.

Removing Alcohol After Production

Once alcoholic spirits have finished distilling, brands will utilize a process known as fractional distillation. In other words, the alcohol evaporates out of the liquor. The result is a non-alcoholic spirit that tastes virtually identical to the alcoholic version.

Non-alcoholic spirits are also known to have several health benefits, such as:

Consuming natural antioxidants for overall wellness
Cutting out added calories from alcohol
Improving mood with non-alcoholic spirits that produce dopamine
Staying hydrated, whereas alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body
Supporting gut health with fewer sugars, carbs, and gluten

Types of Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Non-alcoholic spirit brands are bringing a wide variety of products to this emerging market sector. No matter which type of spirit you like, it’s more than possible to find a non-alcoholic alternative for it. Some of the most popular alcohol-free liquors include:

Non-alcoholic bourbon
Non-alcoholic flavored liqueurs
Non-alcoholic gin
Non-alcoholic rum
Non-alcoholic tequila
Non-alcoholic vodka
Non-alcoholic whiskey

All of these alcohol-free options can be enjoyed in the same way as their alcoholic counterparts. Take your time sipping them on the rocks, enjoy a quick shot, or incorporate them into some of your favorite mocktails (the term for non-alcoholic cocktails).

Mocktail Ideas with Non-Alcoholic Spirits

If you’re not in the mood for non-alcoholic beer or non-alcoholic wine, there are many possibilities when it comes to making mocktails with alcohol-free spirits. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next drink:

Alcohol-Free Tropical Citrus Fizz

In a champagne flute, combine 1.75 oz. of non-alcoholic orange liqueur with .75 oz. of marmalade cordial (300 g of organic marmalade mixed with 150 mL of hot water, and then strained and stored in the refrigerator). Top with sparkling water and gently stir before sipping.

Non-Alcoholic Watermelon Margarita

Chop one medium seedless watermelon into chunks, then puree in a blender. Take 4 c of the watermelon puree, .5 c of non-alcoholic tequila, and add .5 c. of lime juice and 4 tsp. of agave. Mix well and top with sparkling water when serving, if desired.

Virgin Mango Mule

In the bottom of a cocktail shaker, muddle five cucumber slices and 1 oz. of honey syrup. Add 1.5 oz. of mango puree, 1.5 oz. of lime juice, 1.5 oz. of non-alcoholic vodka, and ice. Shake vigorously, and then strain the mixture into a copper mug or glass. Top with 1.5 oz. of ginger beer, stir and enjoy.

Find Non-Alcoholic Spirits and More at Joe Canal’s

Whether you want to cut down on alcohol intake or choose healthier beverages to wind down with, why not try non-alcoholic spirits? If you’re looking for non-alcoholic spirits or other beverages in the Lawrenceville, NJ, area, visit Joe Canal’s. Our team is standing by to help you find the perfect alternatives for your favorite alcoholic products. For more information about the non-alcoholic spirits, beers, and wines we carry, contact us today.