I’m always on the lookout for a good nonalcoholic beverage; one that I can sip at a party instead of gulp in one or two slugs. I don’t know how it is for extroverts, but introverts like me can use a good cocktail “comfort object” to clutch as we navigate the crowds.
Seltzer is a good choice, but after I add the cranberry, it becomes gulp-able. Sparkling juices? Too sweet. Gingerale? It disappears too quickly.
What I really crave is a bracing nonalcoholic beverage, one that will simulate a vodka drink, which demands sipping because of its slightly medicinal edge. This is why I was intrigued when I heard about a new beverage, 12 Noon to Midnight, a fizzy, tea-based drink marketed as the “intelligent alternative for every occasion.”
Developed by chefs David Burke and Alfred Portale, 12 Noon to Midnight is created in a base of organic white, green and black teas with a mix of herbs, spice and citrus essence.
I decided to do a taste test, and bought two bottles at my local Mrs. Greens–one original, peachy apricot flavor, which looks a lot like champagne, and one Rouge, a pomegranate and red grape flavor. The bottle is beautiful, which is a plus–frosted glass instead of the usual workaday clear plastic or glass. Why should pretty bottles be reserved for alcoholic beverages? The festive bottle and packaging enhanced its special-occasion feel, and when I opened it, bubbles shot up to the top, just like when you open champagne.
And the taste? Pretty good, especially since there was only a hint of sweetness. I preferred the Rouge, but I liked the original, too. Both taste slightly spicy, almost like nonalcoholic Jagermeister, and demand to be sipped instead of gulped. The calorie content—60 calories per 8 oz. serving—is less than half that of a glass of red wine (which has 150 calories per 8 oz.). So you can avoid the hangover and drink up.
Not ready to give up your buzz? You can always add booze, and make a creative cocktail out of it, but that’s another story.
We want to know…what’s your favorite nonalcoholic drink to sip at parties? Why?
Sparkling water. The bubbles make me sip it slowly–not quite like a good glass of wine, but a fine alternative.
I like G.U.S. Grown Up Soda. There are several flavors, but I like the dry pomegranate best. Not too sweet and about 100 calories per 12 oz. bottle.
Gawd I get so bored with the non-alcoholic choices when I’m out —
Lately, I’m all about ginger beer. My favorite is Reed’s. Has a nice little kick and is also good with a splash of POM.
I’m stopping at Whole Foods tomorrow to try out a 12 Noon to Midnight. Thanks! Will be nice to have something a little different for Christmas dinner.