Teetotalers toast to vibrant tea mocktails for Dry January and beyond

While some cocktail fans are resolving to participate in Dry January, others prefer to keep spirits out of the shaker all year long. Although the mocktail has become more than just a sparkling water with a wedge of lime, some beverages are more innovative than others. These vibrant tea mocktails deliver bold flavors by hitting all of the senses.

Tea has taken a different turn in recent years. While there might be a royal allure of afternoon tea, the act and art of brewing tea is different than that jolt of coffee. From floral to herbal, the tea leaves impart all types of flavors. That slight nuance seems to make the whole experience a little more intentional.

Tea mocktails offers that vibrant flavor which leads many people to not even question the absence of liquor. The layers unfold in a lovely way. Far from stuffy, there is excitement in that sip.

What vibrant tea mocktails deserve another taste?

One of the more creative mixologists, Cody Goldstein of Muddling Memories has used TAZO in many of his creations. This mocktail, TAZO So Berry Delicious, takes a turn away from the beachy vibes of a margarita and adds a savory twist. The use of Balsamic Vinegar adds depth. It could be a secret ingredient that could be employed both in and out of the glass.

TAZO So Berry Delicious

Ingredients:

• · 5 oz TAZO Berry Hibiscus Margarita
• · 5 Basil Sprigs
• · 4 Strawberries Muddled
• · 3 Drops Balsamic Vinegar
• · 1 oz Lime
• · ½ oz Agave
• · 1 oz Mineral Water

Directions:

• · Combine TAZO Berry Hibiscus Margarita, basil, strawberries, lime, balsamic, and agave and water into a shaker
• · Gently muddle basil and strawberry. Add ice and shake for 5 seconds
• · Double strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a strawberry and basil sprig

Although Dry January might feel a little more hydrating, the chilly winter weather often has some people looking for a hand warmer. The Pukka Hot Toddy Mocktail has the bright, zesty flavors that people crave but it has a little extra. The use of bitters can add that extra boost which makes the sipper even more satisfying.

Pukka Hot Toddy Mocktail

Ingredients:

• · 2 bags Lemon Ginger Manuka Honey Tea
• · 1 cup hot water
• · Juice of 2 small lemons
• · 2 teaspoons of raw honey
• · ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• · Dash of barrel aged bitters

Directions:

• · Steep tea bags in 1 cup hot water for 20 minutes
• · Add the remaining ingredients
• · Mix well and share in 2 mugs
• · Top with lemon slices
• · Enjoy!

Lastly, a Long Island Iced Tea is often considered a very potent potable. This version from Lipton has a multitude of ingredients but does not feel like taking a swim in the deep end. It hits all the flavor notes and adds a little extra kick.

Lipton’s Long Island Iced Tea Mocktail

Ingredients:

• · 2 bags Lipton Family Sized Black Iced Tea Bags or 12 Lipton Black Tea bags
• · 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• · 2 cans (12 oz.) nonalcoholic ginger beer
• · 3 Tbsp. lemon juice, (juice from 1 lemon)
• · 4 cups ice
• · Lemon slices and mint leaves

Directions:

• Brew Lipton Family Sized Black Iced Tea Bags in 4 cups boiling water for 4 minutes. Add vinegar, ginger beers and lemon juice.
• Fill pitcher with ice. Pour tea mixture over ice and garnish with lemon and mint.

What tea mocktails do you love? Are you participating in Dry January?