Mocktails are having a serious moment. Once considered an afterthought, alcohol-free drinks are now one of the fastest-growing categories in the beverage world. Market research shows that the global no- and low-alcohol market grew by nearly 7% in 2023 — and it’s expected to keep climbing. More people are choosing moderation, wellness, or simply a fresh option for social occasions.
Fresh herbs from your garden make mocktails even better. They bring brightness, depth, and creativity to every sip. Whether you’re resetting after summer or simply looking for something fun to pour, these herb-forward recipes let you enjoy the ritual of a cocktail — without the alcohol.
The Mocktail Movement
- The rise of “sober curious” lifestyles is reshaping how we gather.
- Millennials and Gen Z are leading the way, prioritizing balance and wellness.
- Alcohol-free bars, cocktail lounges, and menus are becoming mainstream — from New York to LA to London.
According to Nielsen, nearly 40% of U.S. adults are now trying to drink less alcohol. Mocktails and non-alcoholic spirits are helping make that choice easier — and a lot more fun.
🌿 1. Mint Spritzer
- Fresh mint leaves
- Sparkling water
- Squeeze of lime
- Optional: splash of honey simple syrup
Muddle mint in a glass, top with ice and sparkling water, finish with lime. Refreshing and light.
🌿 2. Basil Citrus Cooler
- Fresh basil leaves
- Orange juice + grapefruit juice
- Club soda
- Garnish with basil sprig
Bright, tangy, and garden-fresh — perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
🌿 3. Rosemary Sparkle
- Fresh rosemary sprig
- Cranberry juice
- Sparkling water
- Twist of lemon
Lightly bruise rosemary to release oils, then mix with cranberry juice and sparkling water over ice.
🌱 Popular Alcohol-Free Spirits to Try
If you want to take your herb mocktails up a notch, here are some well-known non-alcoholic spirits brands shaking up the industry:
- Seedlip – Often called the world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit, with botanical blends like Garden 108.
- Lyre’s – Famous for spirit-free takes on classics like gin, rum, and whiskey.
- Ritual Zero Proof – Well-known for alcohol-free tequila, gin, and whiskey alternatives.
- Monday Gin – A clean, botanical gin alternative, perfect with tonic and fresh herbs.
- Spiritless – Specializes in Kentucky 74, a bourbon-inspired zero-proof option.
- Ghia – Mediterranean-inspired aperitif, bitter and complex, designed for spritzers.
Why Herbs Make Mocktails Better
Fresh herbs elevate every sip. Mint adds coolness, basil brings sweetness, and rosemary adds depth. Each drink becomes more than just a refreshment — it’s a celebration of what you’ve grown.
Grow Pro Tip: Harvest herbs right before making your mocktail for the brightest flavor. Snip generously — many herbs grow back fuller after a trim.
