You know that feeling when you’re dying to raise a glass, but then you remember you committed to no alcohol this month? Yeah, that can be a real bummer. But that’s exactly why the mocktail was invented or the non-alcoholic beer.
Drinking isn’t just about getting drunk; it’s about the social experience, where deals are made and connections are formed. We’ve found ways to keep those traditions alive while still having fun.
And if the goal of drinking is simply to unwind, consider exploring alternative relaxation methods like drinking nootropics (cognitive enhancers) or CBD. There are plenty of ways to relax and enjoy yourself without compromising your commitment to an alcohol-free lifestyle.
RELATED: Where to buy CBD gummies, oil and more
According to the Pew Research Center, about 1 out of 5 adults report drinking more than they think they should. If you’re looking for alternative ways to social drink, consider ordering a tonic water with a splash of wine so you can still be a part of the social gathering without feeling pressure to get “one more round!”
Sometimes, substances like alcohol can feel like the easiest way to decompress or self-soothe. And if this resonates, know that you’re not alone. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 10% of Americans have Alcohol Use Disorder, while more than 60% of Americans increased their alcohol consumption during Covid lockdowns.
How we, as a culture, navigate these patterns of increase and decrease starts with each of individual.
Whether you want to quit alcohol cold turkey or have a glass or two less per week, these tasty mocktails, bubbly beverages, and non-alcoholic beers will get you through “Dry January” feeling healthier and, we hope, happier, too.
Best with Organic Ingredients: Curious Elixirs
Pros:
- No caffeine
- Gluten-free, and no refined sugar
- Includes adaptogens
Cons:
- Adaptogens, while natural, may not agree with all
Does sober drinking have you curious? Satisfy that curiosity with Curious Elixirs.
The drink brand currently has a lineup of six different non-alcoholic concoctions, including drinks inspired by a Negroni, a Dark and Stormy, a Blood Orange Spritz and more, starting at $40 per set of four bottles or a subscription at $36 per pack of four.
To fully enjoy the mocktail version of this classic drink, trying this rendition of the recipe:
Mocktail recipe: Virgin Negroni
- 3 ounces of curious No.1
- Ice
- 5ml of balsamic vinegar
Customer Review:“I really enjoy Curious Elixir No. 1. It is an enjoyable beverage with great flavors .I feel festive while remaining alcohol free. I recently brought some to a holiday party and a few people were curious about what was in my glass. After trying some they asked where they could purchase it.”
Best Non-alcoholic Rosé: De Soi
Pros:
- Interesting flavors
- Available in cans
- Use of adaptogens
If you’re “Hot ‘n Cold” when it comes to alcohol, don’t let this brand be “The One That Got Away.”
If you couldn’t tell already, this non-alcoholic bubbly brand was founded by Katy Perry herself, alongside partner Morgan McLachlan. The drinks are made to be used for toasts to replace champagne, or just a sweet, bubbly treat to enjoy sans alcohol. The Variety Pack includes all three flavors: Golden Hour, Champignon Dreams and Purple Lune for $70 total or $60 when you subscribe. If you prefer a single bottle (or maybe a few cans), we suggest the Tres Rose (from $22), which customers call “enjoyable” and “refreshing.”
Customer Review: “Love this as an alcohol alternative when I am wanting to enjoy something yummy but not wanting to consume alcohol!”
Pros:
- Huge selection
- Ability to shop by discount on-site
Cons:
- Not ideal for those who dislike taste of beer
No one wants to do anything athletic with a beer belly!
That’s why Athletic Brewing Co. has non-alcoholic brews for you to try this January. The company is based out of Stratford, CT but ships nationwide. Best of all, if you’re curious about extending your dry period, the company also has a subscription club which can save you more than $200 a year on your favorite non-alcoholic drinks.
Customer Review: “Love this. Really feels like a legit IPA.”
Best Mocktail: G Spot
Pros:
- Get a boost with added nootropics and adaptogens
Cons:
- I was unable to get horny, but it tasted good
Founded by American actress and writer Gillian Anderson, meet G Spot, America’s new favorite pick-me-up. Packed with adaptogens and nootropics, Anderson’s brand delivers all the chill vibes and mental clarity you need without the hangover. Because who says you can’t unwind and stay sharp? It’s time to sip smarter.
Ditch the alcohol at happy hour and choose one of these four flavorful options: Lift, Soothe, Protect, and Arouse.
Think of them as the next-gen cocktail, energizing, stress-busting, and with just the right amount of zen.
New York Post Review: I decided to test these out during office hours because who doesn’t want a mocktail that reads “Arouse” while typing away all day? I was unsuccessful at getting lustful, but perhaps that’s best. I did, however, enjoy the taste and felt relaxed. If you like ginger beer, you’ll like Protect as much as I did; it’s bubbly and feels like a small energy boost with peppercorn and turmeric bouncing around my tastebuds.” – Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce reporter
Pros:
- Vegan-friendly
- Lots of flavors to choose from
Cons:
- Some customers felt that a few of the flavors were watered down a bit
With a range of flavors from earthy pines and citrusy malts to smooth chocolate and roasted coffee notes, each sip leaves your taste buds tingling. It’s vegan-friendly, containing only 22 grams of carbs and 80 calories per serving. The 6-pack includes 3 West Coast IPAs, 3 Peanut Butter Darks, 3 Blood Orange IPAs, and 3 Golden Lights.
New York Post Review: If you’re a beer lover, you may not miss the real thing ever again. You certainly won’t miss the calories — I didn’t. Bravus makes an incredible peanut butter flavor that is creamy and flavorful. It might become my new drink of choice all year long. — Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce reporter
Pros:
- Contains calming L-theanine
- Has 10mg of caffeine
- Best CBD-infused
- Low calorie
Cons:
- May not be great for right before bed
This recess is for adults only!
The CBD and adaptogen beverage company now has a margarita in the mix. For fans of the classic lime and agave flavors but not the alcohol that typically comes with it, this marg is for you. The drink also contains broad-spectrum hemp, ginseng and lemon balm.
New York Post Review: “Recess drinks are a bubbly way to cheers without the alcohol! I personally love the Recess Sampler, with the Pomegranate Hibiscus being my top choice. They are light on the stomach and a great party drink to have in hand when not drinking alcohol.” – Sophie Cannon, manager of commerce strategy
Pros:
- Great reviews
- No artificial flavors
- Rich, spicy flavor
- Best non-alcoholic tequila beverage, as well as rum and gin dupes from the collection
Cons:
- The brand only has five main spirits. We’d love to see more in the future
Create a new ritual this year with non-alcoholic versions of your favorite spirits.
Ritual Zero Proof makes non-boozy dupes of tequila, rum, whiskey and gin, allowing you to craft almost any cocktail with none of the alcohol. A single bottle of each cost just under $30, while a subscription will save you some cash, at $27 for a 750ml bottle. Best of all, the brand has a great selection of mocktail recipes on its website, so you’ll never be lost for what to make. We’ve found it to make great, best non-alcoholic gin beverage substitutes for all those G&Ts.
Pros:
- Concentrated, so you can use less
- No added sugar
- Best non-alcoholic drinks
Cons:
- Contains lemon balm, which may make you on the sleepier side
Don’t be bitter about going alcohol-free when you have Ghia around.
This bitter-tasting aperitif is a great alternative to the hard stuff, made with notes of citrus, ginger and other botanicals. Choose the Le Spritz soda ($51 for 12) for a carbonated drink or the classic Ghia Aperitif ($38) for a beautiful amber bottle to mix or enjoy on the rocks.
New York Post Review: I tried the classic OG Ghia and found it to be the closest thing to a ginger ale with more herbaceous notes. It is on the more floral and punchy side, so for those who want something a bit closer to a gin and tonic, add tonic water, lime juice and even some water for a great mixed drink.
Pros:
- Fresh, juniper and lime taste
- Fast shipping
- Only 9 grams of sugar per serving
Cons:
- It’s so good that some customers wish it came in a larger case
Straight from the Netherlands, this 4-pack of Sir. James 101 Alcohol-Free Gin Tonic is bound to become your new go-to for the perfect G&T. Enjoy refreshing hints of citrus, infused juniper extract, and zesty lime for a bright, crisp flavor that hits the spot every time.
Best Non-alcoholic Mojito: Mingle Mocktails(24-pack)
Pros:
- Lots of different flavors
- Available in bottles
- Great reviews
Cons:
- Higher calorie count than some other alcohol-alternative beverages
If you like the sweet and tingling fizz of a carbonated cocktail but don’t want the extra calories, Mingle Cocktails may be for you. Each can is 60 calories, vegan, and gluten-free. There’s a huge selection to choose from, including Cranberry Cosmo, Blackberry Hibiscus Bellini, Blood Orange Elder Flower Mimosa, and Moscow Mule. If you can’t decide, we suggest the variety pack. It has everything but swaps out the Moscow Mule for Key Lime Margarita and has Cucumber Melon Mojito — yum!
Customer review: “I bought these with 0 expectations because I wanted to lower my alcohol consumption during the week. I was very impressed with ALL of the flavors and will definitely keep on buying them.”
Best Non-alcoholic Bourbon Beverage: Lyre’s Bourbon
Pros:
- Brand has a wide selection
- Rich, dry finish
Cons:
- Some reviewers note it tastes like a watered-down whiskey
For a fully stocked bar cart with none of the alcohol, Lyre’s has you covered and then some.
Not only are the bottles extremely aesthetically pleasing to look at, they come in an expansive range of flavors that any home-mixologist would go crazy for. Browse their selection and stock up on non-alcoholic spritzes, malts, aperitifs and more, each $35.99 for the 750ml size bottle.
Mocktail recipe: Bourbon Highball — virgin edition
Customer Review: “Honestly this is great stuff. As someone who doesn’t drink but wants to keep the ritual aspect of drinking booze, this is perfect. The taste is fairly good (it would probably work a little better if the consistency was a little thicker, but it’s still pretty great). The packaging is great too. Excited to try out the other products too.”
Pros:
- Great for travel
- Botanical based ingredients
- Great reviews
Cons:
- Not exactly a dupe for any alcoholic beverage, but still interesting and worth a try
If you’ve heard of the sleepy girl mocktail but aren’t into tart cherry juice, we have something for you. It’s an herbal tincture sampler, each item filled with a plethora of goodies that are naturally relaxing.
Take The Edge Off has lemon peel, passionflower and skullcap, while Rose Tinted Glasses has ginseng and the adaptogen lion’s mane. Wine Down contains L-Theanine (one of our editor’s swears by it to calm nerves), as well as elderberry and Ceylon cinnamon.
Add the tinctures to a glass of water or juice and wait for the magic to happen.
Customer Review: “I thought it was too good to be true. I read the other reviews and then took the leap and I’m so happy I did…I can’t wait to order more. I do think they are a little pricey but then again, so is alcohol.”
Pros:
- Certified organic and non-GMO
- Vegan
- 4.7 rating with more than 7,000+ reviews!
Cons:
- A little pricey but in alignment with similar products on the market
A blend of mood-boosting botanicals will make you want to shout, Hiyo, whenever you crack open one of these babies. It has three thirst-quenching flavors for (peach mango, watermelon lime, and blackberry lemon), and each are design to give you “the float,” as the brand calls it. We’re not sure what that is, but it sounds nice!
Customer Review: “I cannot get enough of this stuff! i first tried it via my mother in law when my husband and i told her we wanted to cut back on drinking. i was hooked after one can and have been buying it regularly for several months. all of the flavors are amazing and i love the feel of the ‘float’”.
Pros:
- Great for those who like the ritual of drinking but not necessarily alcohol
- Interesting, natural ingredients
- Gorgeous packaging
Cons:
- Not necessarily a substitute for wine or spirits, taste-wise
Whether you like alcohol to feel loose or relaxed, you’ll get a little bit of both with this non-alcoholic duo from Three Spirits. Livener contains clean caffeine, tastes of berries and is perfect for a sophisticated pre-game treat. When the party’s over, wind down with Nightcap. It has relaxing adaptogenic ashwagandha, soothing willow bar, and notes of vanilla and hazelnut.
Customer Review: “This one was a great refreshing drink to me. The taste to me was Tropical on ice but a sense of spice at the end. My caffeine tolerance is low, so it did make my heart speed up for a small amount of time but nothing risky to worry about. I will be purchasing more of this.”
Pros:
- Bottle artwork is amazing
- Best non-alcoholic spirits with a fresh taste
- Includes ginger beer pack
Cons:
- On pricier side but still good value for what is received
Calling all tonic lovers — here’s something to sip on besides gin or vodka.
Seedlip are delicious and herbaceous non-alcoholic mixers, made to be enjoyed with tonic and a garnish or two. The thee flavors include Spice 94 for a woodsy taste, Garden 108 for a more herbal take and Grove 42 for citrus lovers. They can be found at Prrof No More and retail for $32.99 each.
Here’s to you, 2025.
Raise a non-alcoholic glass of bubbly to the folks at Töst because it is tasty. Get a champagne-inspired drink, both made from tea and other botanicals and fruits to achieve the dry and bubbly taste of the classic drink without the headache afterward.
Mocktail recipe: Non-boozy Mimosa
Pros:
- Affordable
- Great for those who like to pair wine with meals
Cons:
- No nutritional information on the website
Set yourself free from alcohol, but don’t sacrifice your after-dinner glass of wine.
Fre is an alcohol-free line of wine from Sutter Home, now sold in an array of flavors at Drizly. They have the full wine cellar available in zero-proof options, including a sparking brut for celebrations, chardonnay, merlot, cabernet, rosé and more.
Customer Review: “First time trying it and it does taste very much like wine! It is sweet like the reviews state. It reminds me more of a Riesling, which I really enjoy. I wouldn’t call it a Chardonnay, because there’s no oak or bitter taste…but I really like this.”
Pros:
- Great reviews
- A nice selection of flavor profiles
Cons:
- No nutrition information on the website
Sample this zero-proof beer and more with the Better Rhodes Staff Favorite pack, coming with six different non-alcoholic beers in a six or a 12-pack to share with buddies, starting at just under $20. The selections are made by the team at Better Rhodes, which specializes in alcohol-free wine, beer and spirits for a better road into 2025.
Pros:
- Lovely, sweet aftertaste
- Only has 20 calories per serving
- No sweeteners, and vegan-friendly
Cons:
- Only a 3.1 rating on Amazon
Especially with CleanCo drinks, as they mimic the real thing but without the alcohol. Better yet, they are also clean from sugar and sweeteners and are vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie. Pick your poison on Amazon, with options for vodka, gin, tequila and rum alternatives, starting just under $30 for the 750ml bottle and stunning packaging.
What is a mocktail?
It’s a non-alcoholic cocktail or beverage that mimics the taste, appearance, and complexity of a traditional cocktail. It’s made using a combination of juices, soda, syrups, herbs, spices, and other flavorings, but without any alcohol.
Mocktails are great for people who want to enjoy the experience of a fancy drink without the effects of alcohol. They are often served in the same type of glassware as cocktails and can be garnished in similar ways, making them a popular choice for parties or events where people might want a refreshing, fun drink without the booze.
What is Dry January?
Considering stats like the ones shared in our intro, it makes sense that Dry January would be on more than a few people’s radar.
The month-long event is a time when people essentially ‘dry out’ from alcohol consumption which tends to increase during the holiday season. Abstaining comes with a variety of benefits, including better sleep and more energy.
If you regularly partake in boozing it up, the event can have its challenges. However, mocktails can provide a surprisingly refreshing alcohol-free alternative that’s also enjoyable. Many have relaxing ingredients like CBD or mood-boosting Rhodiola to get you in your feels. And unlike alcohol, they can be enjoyed if you have to drive or have work the next day.
Whether you’re looking for something to pour over a glass of ice or want to find the best mocktail recipe for you and your friends, we’ve curated a lineup of thirst-quenching treats. Heck, we even threw in some recipes too!
Aside from the health benefits of laying off alcohol for a bit, non-alcoholic drinks are perfect for pregnant people who want a fancy drink, under-21 folks who want to celebrate with their older peers, and those who are the designated drivers of the group.
How can I make Dry January Easier?
If you’ve decided to give Dry January a go, good for you! According to Harvard Health Publishing, there are lots of benefits from giving up booze, even for just a little while. Those who abstain from alcohol for 30 days experience:
- Better sleep
- Lower blood pressure
- Weight loss
- Increased energy
Sounds good, right? Of course, if you’re used to unwinding with a glass of Merlot on a regular basis, giving up the hard stuff can be difficult. Here are some Dry January tips to make things easier on yourself.
Dry January Tips:
- Remove temptation: This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easier to abstain from alcohol if you don’t have your favorite beer or vodka staring at you. If it’s too much of a temptation to have it around, give it to a friend or remove it somewhere out of reach for the rest of the month. If you go to see friends, bring your own alcohol alternative, so you can still partake in the ritual of having a drink without actually taking one.
- Make it a team effort: Teamwork makes the dream work, so don’t be shy about sharing your sobriety goals with your family and friends. They can not only offer support but help keep you accountable. Who knows? You may inspire some of them to join you.
- Replace alcohol with something you enjoy: No, seriously. According to the same article from Harvard Health Publishing, it’s recommended to substitute your alcohol consumption with healthier alternatives, such as sparkling water or mocktails. This is also an opportunity to adopt other wellness habits, like working out, eating more fruits and vegetables or getting more sleep.
Favorite Alcohol
If you love the following drinks: Corona, White Claw, Athletic, Blue Moon, Guinness, Budweiser, Bero, Loverboy, Sierra Nevada, Peroni, and Olipop, we’ve found a choice of alternative beverages above to get you through the month (or year)…enjoy!
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