The Old Fashioned is perhaps the most famous whiskey cocktail in the world. Popularized in recent years as Don Draper’s signature drink in Mad Men, this classic cocktail has a history as rich as the whiskey it’s made with. Dating back to the early 19th century, the Old Fashioned was one of the first mixed drinks to gain popularity and continues to be a staple to this very day.
One of the main reasons the Old Fashioned became such a timeless classic is its simplicity. To make an Old Fashioned, all you need is whiskey, Angostura bitters, and a sweetener like sugar or simple syrup. The sweetener is a critical component as it helps balance out the sharp flavors of the bitters. But since whiskey is naturally sweet to begin with, having a few of these drinks can result in a not-so-sweet hangover.
This is where Ritual Zero Proof comes in! Our whiskey substitute is specially crafted with premium botanical ingredients that deliver the same look, smell, and taste of regular whiskey without the alcohol. That means you can enjoy the smooth finish of an Old Fashioned but still be good to drive home and crush tomorrow!
In this article, we’ll break down how to make a virgin Old Fashioned, discuss the benefits of having a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned, and cover some scenarios that call for an Old Fashioned mocktail.
start of recipeWhy Drink a Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned?
Going the zero proof route may be a peculiar concept to some, but there are plenty of reasons why someone might choose to drink a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned over a regular one:
- Health & Wellness: many of our customers tend to be more physically active, dedicating time to the gym to keep their bodies in tip-top shape. For these individuals, alcohol can be a major obstacle. Just one night of drinking can throw off your sleep schedule and cause damage that your body will feel for days at a time. Not to mention all the calories that come with it!
- No Hangovers or Side Effects: nobody likes hangovers, but there are a lot of people who don’t enjoy how alcohol makes them feel in general. As a result, they rarely drink or abstain from alcohol all together. But with a non-alcoholic substitute like Ritual Whiskey Alternative, you can go out and enjoy a nice drink without having to deal with any of the side effects of booze.
- Improved Sleep: less alcohol means you’re more likely to get a better night’s sleep. You’ll wake up feeling more rested and rejuvenated than you normally would after a night of drinks.
- Religion or Spiritual Beliefs: those who are religiously devout or have personal objections to consuming alcohol might similarly want to enjoy a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned for the flavors and aromas without breaking their commitment to a sober lifestyle.
- Moderate Drinking: a lot of people like to drink in moderation, so they’ll mix in a non-alcoholic mocktail (like a virgin Old Fashioned) as a buffer between their regular mixed drinks. This prevents them from getting too intoxicated during a night out on the town.
No matter the reason, you can always be part of the fun with Ritual Zero Proof! Our spirit alternatives allow you to enjoy the flavors of your favorite cocktails (like an Old Fashioned), without worrying about the consequences of alcohol.
Ideal Settings For a Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned
What is the best time to try out an Old Fashioned mocktail recipe? Here are some situations where we recommend going with a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned:
- When You Have to Drive: the most obvious situation that calls for non-alcoholic drinks is when you have to operate a vehicle. Whether you’re driving yourself or acting as the designated driver for your friends, Old Fashioned mocktails allow for conscious consumption that leaves you feeling your best!
- During a Night Out: conversely, when you’re not the designated driver and you’re out enjoying some drinks, a non-alcoholic cocktail (and some water) can be a nice change of pace. A virgin Old Fashioned is the perfect drink buffer during a night out, whether you’re at the bar, a wedding reception, or a company holiday party.
- During the Pregame Party: before heading out for the night, show off your mixology skills during the pregame by whipping up some Old Fashioned mocktails for the group to enjoy!
- During Happy Hour: going out for happy hour with some coworkers is a great way to blow off some steam after a long work day. Order up some mocktails and let the stress of the day melt away.
- When You’re Relaxing: you don’t need to be out on the town to treat yourself to some mocktails. Whether you’re watching TV, reading a book, or listening to music, you can make yourself a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned from the comfort of your home and enjoy some alone time!
Get Started with Ritual Whiskey Alternative
Ready to experience whiskey cocktails without compromise? Pick up a bottle of Ritual Whiskey Alternative today and get ready to impress your family and friends with our easy-to-follow Old Fashioned Mocktail recipe! You can also check out our full collection of top-rated spirit alternatives.
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FAQs About Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned Mocktails
What is a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned?
A non-alcoholic Old Fashioned (also known as a virgin Old Fashioned) is a cocktail that replicates the taste of a traditional Old Fashioned but contains little to no alcohol. In the case of Ritual Zero Proof, these mocktails are made with no alcohol at all.
How do you make a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned at home?
The non-alcoholic Old Fashioned is one of the easiest drinks to make at home. Start by adding 1/4 oz. of simple syrup and 1-2 dashes of Angostura bitters into a glass. Add a dash of water and then proceed to muddle and mix the ingredients. Fill the glass with ice and add 2 oz. of whiskey substitute. Stir for up to 1 minute. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry for some additional flavor!
Are there other variations of the non-alcoholic Old Fashioned recipe?
There are several different Old Fashioned mocktail recipes out there to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Some variations utilize different fruits for the garnish, such as grapefruit or lemon. Other recipe variations call for flavored syrups like vanilla or cinnamon, or incorporating alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar to give the drink a unique twist.
Can I create my own signature Old Fashioned mocktail recipe?
Yes, part of the fun of making Old Fashioned mocktails is experimenting with different flavor combinations and ingredients to create your signature recipe. Feel free to get creative with seasonal fruits, herbs, and spices to craft a unique mocktail that reflects your taste preferences and style.
Can a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned be customized to fit dietary preferences or restrictions?
One of the best things about Old Fashioned mocktails is their versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions, such as using natural sweeteners for a healthier option, opting for organic fruit for added freshness, or choosing gluten-free ingredients for those with gluten sensitivities.
Are Old Fashioned mocktails suitable for pairing with food?
Absolutely! Non-alcoholic Old Fashioneds can complement various dishes, from appetizers to desserts. Their balanced flavors and refreshing qualities make them versatile for pairing with multiple cuisines, whether enjoying a casual meal with friends or hosting a formal dinner party.
