Firstly, NoLo Lingo 101: the difference between an AF cocktail and a mocktail, is that AF cocktails use spirit alternatives, to give the taste of traditional cocktails, without the alcohol. Whereas, mocktails are the more traditional blend of juices and sparkling drinks with a cocktail umbrella on the side.

Mixing the perfect AF cocktail at home is not just easy—it’s an art that anyone can master! By incorporating alcohol-free spirits into your recipes, you can elevate your drinks with complexity and flavour that rivals traditional cocktails. Here’s your guide to becoming a NoLo mixology pro.  

Essential ingredients  

Start with these key components:  

Alcohol-Free Spirits: Brands like Lyre’s, Seedlip, and Brunswick Aces offer a range of AF options that mimic gin, whiskey, rum, and more.  

Juices: Freshly squeezed citrus juices, such as lemon, lime, and orange, bring brightness and balance.  

Syrups: Infuse simple syrups (equal parts sugar and water) with herbs, spices, or fruit to add depth.  

Mixers: Sparkling water, tonic, or ginger beer provide fizz and flavour.  

Garnishes: Add flair with fresh herbs, citrus twists, or edible flowers.  

Tools you’ll need  

No professional bar kit? No problem! Start with these essentials:  

Shaker: To blend and chill your cocktails.  

Jigger: For precise measurements.  

Muddler: To crush herbs and release their aroma.  

Give it a try!

Choose one (or all!) of these three AF cocktail recipes featuring AF spirits, invite over a few friends and watch their surprise and delight to get all the taste and none of the hangover! 

Citrus & Herb Spritz  

   – 50ml alcohol-free gin (e.g., Seedlip Garden 108)  

   – 30ml freshly squeezed orange juice  

   – 15ml rosemary simple syrup  

   – Tonic water  

Shake the first three ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, and top with tonic. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.  

NoLo Mojito  

   – 50ml alcohol-free white rum (e.g., Lyre’s White Cane Spirit)  

   – 15ml lime juice  

   – 10ml simple syrup  

   – Fresh mint leaves  

   – Sparkling water  

Muddle mint with lime juice and syrup, add AF rum, and top with sparkling water.

Serve over ice with a mint sprig garnish.  

Spiced AF Mule  

   – 50ml alcohol-free whiskey (e.g., Lyre’s American Malt)  

   – 15ml ginger syrup  

   – 15ml lime juice  

   – Ginger beer  

Layer ingredients in a copper mug over ice.

Garnish with a lime wheel.  

Mocktails made with alcohol-free spirits offer the complexity of cocktails without the buzz, making them perfect for any occasion. Have fun experimenting with these recipes and create your own signature NoLo drink—cheers to mindful sipping!