7 Holiday Mocktails for the Season

Years ago, booze-free cocktails -- annoyingly dubbed "mocktails" -- would have been considered oxymorons, like sex without release.

Today, no one raises an eyebrow at the request because there are so many obvious reasons why you might not drink: You're pregnant, you're an alcoholic, you're driving, you're sick, you're underage, it's against your religion, etc. Maybe you just drank too much already.

Having recognized the growing niche of people who want to taste fabulous drinks but don't want to get stinking drunk, beverage directors today are building liquor-free cocktails into drink lists -- and teaching bartenders the art of hooch-free flavor combinations. Here are some timeless, clever adaptations of classic drinks tinged with Christmas cheer. If none sounds appealing, there's always O'Douls.
Cider Nog
It's Christmastime and you want something noggy and nice, eh? Consider this classic adaptation of eggnog: Mix 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Shake like crazy. Strain into a glass. Add cider. Open presents.

Mock Toddy
When it's cold outside, you want something warm inside. This classic has always been associated with medicinal value: Combine hot water, lemon juice, honey, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg and, to add color and flavor, cranberry juice. Some folks might even suggest a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Serve in a mug.

Baby Bellini
Need something festive? Bubbles do the trick: Mix sparkling pear (or apple) cider -- instead of Champagne -- with peach nectar and, if desired, lemon juice. Pour into a long flute. Ideal for toast time.

Virgin Mary (aka Bloody Shame or Bloody Virgin)
The true origin of the classic Bloody Mary is a matter of debate. This liquor-free version, a classic hangover cure and terrific brunch accompaniment, is almost as revered: Scrap the vodka but include the tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (like Tabasco), lemon or lime juice, ground black pepper, horseradish and a celery stick to stir. Red and green? How Christmas-y! Jesus would be proud.

Sip Gingerly
Consider this adaptation of the rum-based Dark & Stormy a drinkable, grown-up gingerbread house: Mix spicy ginger beer (not ginger ale), lime, bitters and ice. Garnish with a lime wedge and, if desired, a slice of citrusy candied ginger.

Cherry-Chocolate Goodness
Most chocolate mocktails are really just liquid desserts; once you add whipped cream, you're veering dangerously into must-consume-with-spoon territory. This cocktail keeps things drinkable: Combine 1 tablespoon of cherry-flavored syrup, 1 tablespoon of chocolate-flavored syrup, 3/4 cup of sparkling water, ice and -- to be fancy -- you can coat the rim with chocolate sprinkles.

Candy Cane
Serve this one to relatives with chronic halitosis: Pour 12 ounces of milk into a saucepan, simmer over medium heat, add a healthy ounce of chopped white chocolate and a half ounce of crushed candy canes. Toss in a pinch of salt. Whisk until creamy. Top with whipped cream and more crushed candy cane bits and powder. Use a candy cane as a stirrer. Enjoy your family -- and the sugar rush.

James Oliver Cury is the former executive editor of Epicurious.com.