Refreshing Mocktails for Dry January: Montreal Edition

Looking for delicious drinks that don’t require alcohol this January? Whether you’re doing Dry January, cutting back, or just looking for something fresh and fun, these easy mocktails are perfect for home sipping. Featuring colorful flavors, fragrant syrups, and a mix of citrus, floral, and coffee-inspired creations, they’re ideal for cozy Montréal nights or a relaxed afternoon with friends.

1. La Vie en Rose — Floral & Effervescent

Ingredients:

• 0.75 oz Hibiscus Syrup
• 0.75 oz Lime Juice
• 2 oz Water
• Splash of Egg White (Optional)

Instructions:

1. Add everything into your shaker and dry shake (without ice) if using egg whites for froth.
2. Add ice and hard shake for 15 seconds.
3. Strain into your glass over fresh ice, or serve in a coupe without ice.
4. Garnish with a dehydrated rose.

Pro Tip: Always shake with LOTS of ice to achieve a silky texture.

2. Passionfruit Mojito — Tropical & Refreshing

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Passionfruit Syrup
• 0.25 oz Mint Syrup (or 10–12 fresh mint leaves)
• 0.75 oz Lime Juice
• 2 oz Water
• Soda

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients except soda in your shaker.
2. Fill with ice and hard shake for 15 seconds.
3. Strain into your glass over fresh ice or pour everything, ice included.
4. Top with soda and garnish with dehydrated citrus slices and mint leaves.

3. The Butterfly — Vibrant & Instagram-Worthy

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Butterfly Pea Syrup
• 0.5 oz Lemon Juice
• 2 oz Water
• Egg White (Optional)

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients into your shaker. Dry shake if using egg whites.
2. Add ice and hard shake for 15 seconds.
3. Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with butterfly pea flowers.

4. Virgin Espresso Martini — Creamy, Rich & Customizable

Ingredients (Single Serving):

• 1 oz Coffee Syrup (or any neutral/simple syrup)
• 1 oz Espresso, strong brewed coffee, or cold brew concentrate
• 1 oz Cream or Oat Milk (or half-and-half)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Add coffee, syrup, and cream into a shaker with ice.
2. Shake hard for 15 seconds until frothy.
3. Strain into a coupe glass.
4. Garnish with coffee beans or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Adjustable Tip:

• For filtered coffee: use a double-strength brew to maintain richness.
• For espresso: single or double shots work depending on desired intensity.
• For cold brew: reduce syrup slightly as cold brew can be naturally sweeter.

Why it Works: This mocktail keeps the indulgent espresso martini vibe without alcohol, perfect for a late-night pick-me-up or post-brunch treat.

5. Citrus Ginger Sparkler — Light & Festive

Ingredients (Single Serving):

• 1 oz Orange Syrup (or lemon syrup for a twist)
• 0.5 oz Ginger Syrup
• 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• 2 oz Sparkling Water
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Combine syrup and lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Shake briefly.
2. Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
3. Top with sparkling water and gently stir.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist or candied ginger.

Montreal Winter Tip: This is bright and refreshing but still warming — ideal for sipping while cozy inside after a snowy stroll on Mont‑Royal or around Old Montréal.

Hosting Tips for Dry January in Montréal

1. Batch-friendly: Most of these mocktails can be scaled up for 4–12 servings — perfect for small at-home gatherings.
2. Use fresh garnishes: Citrus twists, herbs, and edible flowers elevate the look and aroma.
3. Play with syrups: Adjust sweetness to taste and experiment with combinations.
4. Make it festive: Serve in coupe glasses, highballs, or mugs to match the cozy Montréal vibes