Celebrating with non-alcoholic winter cocktails doesn’t have to be boring. With the right premium alternative, you can create the finest experience this festive season.
Whatever the reason for switching out the alcohol, VE Refinery has a beverage option just for you. Craft the most delicious non-alcoholic winter cocktails with these alternatives. Find the recipes here.
Does drinking alcohol warm you up?
Here’s what experts have to say about drinking in winter to keep yourself warm, “you booze, you lose”. The effects of alcohol on the human body are often deceptive. Drinking alcohol in low temperatures can only make you feel warm, but in reality, it lowers the core temperature of the body.
So, how do you explain the instant warmth after a sip of whiskey or brandy? The alcohol itself doesn’t impact your body temperature. It dilates the capillaries which makes the blood rush to your skin, giving you the illusion of warmth.
Aside from the sharp dip in core temperature, alcohol also accelerates dehydration. Alcohol is a diuretic, the more you drink, the more you need to use the washroom - speeding up dehydration. So, the ideal winter drink isn’t a brandy, whiskey or eggnog. It’s a hot chocolate, tea, or famed non-alcoholic beverage from VE Refinery.
Who can enjoy non-alcoholic drinks?
Non-alcoholic winter cocktails create an inclusive drinking experience for all. Whether you’re exploring mindful drinking, a sober lifestyle or a special vegan diet - non-alcoholic and zero-proof cocktails can cater to your needs well.
A majority of the beverages available in VE Refinery are vegan, so with the right cocktail recipe, you can enjoy them without a hitch. For instance, Wilfred’s aperitif, Thomson & Scott wines, Pentire beverages and fermented teas from Real Drinks Co. are vegan.
If your faith requires you to not consume alcohol, we’ve got your back. Aside from Thomson & Scott Noughty sparkling being halal certified, VE Refinery has a range of 0.0% options. Enjoy non-alcoholic winter cocktails with these at your Christmas party without breaking the bank on alternatives for everyone.
Best Non-alcoholic Winter Cocktails
The festive season calls for speciality non-alcoholic winter cocktails. When everything is decorated with glimmering lights, and everyone is hopeful for the new year around the corner, wouldn’t you also want your drink to be special? That’s why peppermint eggnog, spiked hot chocolate or mulled wines are winter party staples.
But with all the partying, you may unknowingly increase your regular alcohol intake - resulting in poor sleep, weight gain, liver issues and compromised heart health. So, do you swap your mulled wine for a sickly sweet grape juice? Never!
Explore the exciting world of non-alcoholic winter cocktails with VE Refinery’s range of zero-proof and alcohol-free beverages. Unlike many alcohol alternatives, these alcohol-free drinks are versatile and can be used in any cocktail, offering a premium experience.
1. Sober Mulled Wine
Embrace the season with a twist on the classic mulled wine – a winter warmer that’s both easy to whip up and a sure crowd-pleaser. Switch things up with a Rosé rather than a red. For a vegan, low in sugar and non-alcoholic wine, try the Thomson & Scott Noughty Rosé.
Ingredients:
- Cinnamon sticks
- Cloves
- Allspice berries
- Thomson & Scott Noughty Dealcoholized Rosé
- ¼ sliced orange (optional)
- ½ tablespoon black peppercorn
- Whole nutmeg
- Star anise
Method:
Pour and heat the Rosé in a saucepan with the spices and orange slices. We recommend toasting the spices beforehand to make it even better. Let it simmer for 20 minutes on medium flame. Using a fine strainer, strain it into a heat-proof cup or glass. Garnish with an orange wheel before serving.
The combination of wine and cheese is unbeatable. Try creamy and salty cheeses with this winter cocktail. You can also explore vegan, nut-based cheese with a strong flavour. And if you’re planning to serve it over dinner, a bowl of cheesy pasta, chicken and beef steaks go well.
2. Jingle Juice Punch with a Twist
What’s a mixer without a punch bowl? Whether an office Christmas party or a friendly get-together; a punch bowl is fun and delicious. The guests can serve themselves, freeing the hosts to mingle. But don’t go for the usual store bought mixes, instead try our unique alcohol-free Jingle Juice punch recipe. An absolute crowd-pleaser at Christmas parties and New Year's Eve celebrations.
Ingredients:
- Cranberry and apple juice
- Non-alcoholic sparkling cider
- Thomson & Scott Noughty Dealcoholized Blanc
- Orange juice and sliced orange
- Ginger ale
Method:
Pour all the ingredients into a punch bowl or a pitcher. Garnish with cranberries and orange slices and let your guests serve themselves.
To complement the simplicity of the beverage, impress your guests with a wide spread of delicacies. A charcuterie board, finger sandwiches and pastries are the perfect pair with the party punch. For the charcuterie board, you can use a variety of cheeses, cured meats, fruits and nuts. Craft the most extravagant spread to complement the jingle juice punch.
3. Cranberry Orange Sour
Our winter spin on the classic whiskey sour features Wilfred’s aperitif. The notes of natural rosemary, bitter orange and rhubarb perfectly encapsulate the seasonal flavours. The undertones of cloves make it the ideal non-alcoholic drink for the season.
Ingredients:
- Wilfred’s non-alcoholic spritz
- Fresh-pressed orange juice
- Unsweetened cranberry juice
- Maple syrup or simple syrup
- Cocktail cherries or orange wheels (optional)
- Egg white
Method:
When you’re using egg whites for the cocktail, let the protein create the foam in a cocktail shaker without ice. Once the foam forms, add the ingredients i.e., orange and cranberry juices, and simple syrup with ice. Shake vigorously to cool the drink and strengthen the foam. Strain it into an Antoinette glass, top it off with Wilfred’s non-alcoholic spritz and garnish with orange wheels or cocktail cherries.
Smoked cheeses and seared steaks are the best food pairings for orange cranberry sour. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also serve a duck l’orange, venison or smoked salmon. Bring your ‘A game’ to the next dinner party with this lavish spread!
4. Zero-proof Hot Toddy
Nothing’s better than a cup of boozy tea to warm you up on a cold winter day. And for those exploring mindful drinking, we have the ideal cocktail - the zero-proof hot toddy. The harmonious contrast of Peony Blush from Real Drinks Co. and Feragaia's Scottish alcohol-free spirit creates absolute magic.
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Feragaia
- 100 ml Peony Blush
- 50 ml water
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup/honey
- ½ tsp cloves
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- Lemon wedge
Method:
Add 50 ml Feragaia, water and the spices in a large saucepan. Let it steam for 15 to 20 minutes on a medium flame. Strain and pour the liquid into an enamel cup and top it off with the Peony Blush and one teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for taste. Garnish with a lemon wedge and serve your guests.
Your guests will enjoy a combination of sweet and savoury dishes served with this cocktail. An assortment of tamponades, hearty crackers, Italian sausages and baked brie are our recommendations for your next hot toddy night. You can’t go wrong with fresh seasonal fruits and Swiss chocolates as accompaniments.
5. (Un)spiked Hot Chocolate
You’re never too old for hot chocolate. No winter gatherings are ever complete without this heavenly drink. This non-alcoholic winter beverage is perfect in itself, but if you want an extra kick, add a touch of Feragaia Scottish non-alcoholic spirit to spice it up. The pink peppercorn and serrated wrack beautifully pair with the sweetness of chocolate and vanilla.
Ingredients:
- Regular or nut milk
- Cocoa powder
- Vanilla
- Sugar
- Chocolate chips
- Feragaia
- Hot coffee (optional)
Method:
Cook the milk in a saucepan until bubbles appear. Keep stirring for 4 to 6 minutes and add vanilla, sugar, chocolate chips and cocoa. Continue to stir for another 5 minutes till the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and slowly incorporate the Feragaia for the added kick.
Sweet and salty treats are best coupled with hot chocolate. Start the spread with freshly baked chocolate cookies, almond brittles, cake pops and cheesecake bites. You can never go wrong with a chocolate fondue with fresh fruits, marshmallows and more.
6. Apple Cider Margarita
Do you like adding apple cider to everything once the chilly breeze sets in? If you do, this apple cider margarita is the ideal non-alcoholic winter cocktail for you. This summer special turns into a winter wonder with just a few replacements and alternatives. The most important ingredient? The Pentire margarita cocktail pre-mix.
Ingredients:
- Apple cider
- Pentire alcohol-free margarita
- Cinnamon and powdered sugar
Method:
In a pitcher, combine 2 cups of apple cider and 1.5 cups of Pentire pre-mix alcohol-free margarita. Give it a proper stir to mix the ingredients well.
To garnish the rim, cut a notch in a lime wedge and run it around the glass rim. On a plate, mix the cinnamon and sugar powder well and evenly coat the rim. Now, pour the cocktail into the glass and enjoy!
The sweet cinnamon sugar, zesty lime and tangy margarita create the perfect blend of flavour. Pair it with a creamy risotto, quiche, and creamy chicken or veggie soups. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, an apple crumble pie tastes heavenly with it.
7. Peppermint Eggnog
If you’re well-versed with zero-proof winter cocktails, you know the vegan eggnog with Feragaia. Let us introduce you to a festive or Christmassy variant of the same ol’ drink - the peppermint eggnog.
Ingredients:
- 4 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- Granulated sugar
- Whole milk or nut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- Feragaia Scottish Non-alcoholic Spirit
Method:
Whisk together the egg yolk and ½ cup of granulated sugar in a bowl, till frothy. Meanwhile, pour the milk and ½ cup of sugar into a saucepan. Stir continuously for 3 to 5 minutes on medium heat. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the milk and keep stirring until a frothy and thick consistency. Strain into a bowl and pop it in the freezer for at least 3 hours.
Before serving, mix the peppermint, vanilla extract and Feragaia into the eggnog and pour into mousse mugs. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive vibe!
Set up a dessert bar to complement your peppermint eggnog. Think chocolate cakes, cheesecakes, cinnamon rolls, pumpkin pies, creme brulee doughnuts, and candied pecans – ideal for a sweet celebration!
8. Winter Wonderland Peartini
What’s a Christmas party without a little spectacle? Impress your guests with this from-scratch non-alcoholic winter cocktail - peartini. If a hot cider is your go-to winter cocktail order, you’re going to love this one. Try the Pentire Coastal Spritz for its notes of blood orange, rosemary and subtle hints of oakwood, which complements the spicy and herbaceous tones of the peartini.
Ingredients:
- Pentire Coastal Spritz
- 8 medium assorted pears
- 1 medium orange, peeled and sliced
- 5 cinnamon sticks
- Freshly sliced ginger
- 5 whole allspice berries
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoon cloves
- ⅓ cup of maple syrup
Method:
Place the pears, orange, spices, vanilla and 7 cups of water into a slow cooker, ensuring not to submerge the pears completely. Now cook it either on high for 4 to 4.5 hours or medium for 8 to 9 hours. Mash the pears using a potato masher, 30 minutes before it’s completely cooked.
Strain this mixture using a wire mesh strain into a pitcher. Top it off with the Pentire Coastal Spritz before serving. To immerse yourself in the playful flavours, we recommend serving it cold.
Cured and smoked meats, primarily pork products like patés, terrines, and rillettes are an excellent companion to the peartini. Chicken, ham and cheese-based salads are also a great option, along with roasted pork with apples and savoury crèpes. To satiate the sweet cravings, add toffee apples, and caramel walnut slices to the spread.
9. Woodchuck Warmer Apple Cider
Tired of crafty cocktails? Want something simple? Try the woodchuck warmer apple cider — a simple and snug non-alcoholic winter cocktail for those relaxing winter days. Skip the booze to make it healthy, and add Feragaia to take the flavours up a notch.
Ingredients:
- 8 large apples, chopped
- 1 lemon, halved
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 2 star anise pods
- Freshly sliced ginger
- Feragaia
Method:
In an electric or instant cooker, place the apples, lemon and spices; add 4.5 cups of water to cover the apples entirely. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then allow the cooker to de-pressurise on its own, for another 15 minutes. Let the remaining pressure out by opening the lid.
Strain the contents into a pitcher and add the syrup according to taste. In a toddy or bourbon glass, add equal parts of Feragaia and the spiced beverage. Garnish with cinnamon sticks and star anise pods.
Camembert, Cheddar cheese, and apple crumble pair well with this cocktail. Consider pork chops, Shepherd’s pie, or Irish beef stew for a heartier meal. If you're in the mood for something lighter, opt for gingerbread cookies and candied pecans to maintain the theme.
10. Tea and Cider Punch
A hot cup of tea steeped in cider is an excellent non-alcoholic cocktail. It’s warm, delicious, and so easy to make. Unlike hot chocolate or vegan eggnog, this cocktail doesn’t take hours to prepare. Swap the alcohol for some Dry Dragon from Real Drinks Co. to make it more family-friendly. The sweet and crisp flavours of the tea are best complemented with warm cider on a chilly winter morning.
Ingredient:
- Dry Dragon from Real Drinks Co.
- Fresh apple cider
- Sliced lemon
Method:
Bring 6 cups of apple cider to a boil and reduce it for 30 to 45 minutes. Pour the concoction into cups, top it off with Dry Dragon, and garnish with lemon slices. Add one teaspoon of honey to the cup if you like sweet tea.
Brew yourself a nice cup of warm cider tea punch and curl up on the couch with a book. For accompaniments, spiced nuts, sandwiches, almond brittles, caramel popcorn, and fig and jam crostini are best for this non-alcoholic drink.
Wrap it up with VE Refinery
As the winter chill sets in, it’s only natural to want to reach for the bourbon. But before doing that, how about reminding yourself of the negative impacts of alcohol and switching to an alcohol-free alternative? This holiday season, try the exquisite non-alcoholic winter cocktails listed in this article for an extravagant experience.
Each of the recipes mentioned here can be made kid-friendly and healthy. From the unspiked hot chocolate to the peppermint eggnog, each cocktail delivers a blend of craftsmanship and a variety of flavours.
Shop from VE Refinery to ensure your celebrations are not only festive but also mindful and inclusive. To make this festive season more special, contact VE Refinery here and organise speciality mixology classes and more for your loved ones. Cheers to a season of warmth, joy, and delightful sips!