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Late Summer Sipping: N/A Cocktails for Your Favorite August Activities

August: also known as the dog days of summer. Many of us are squeezing in the last of our summer activities and making the most of our plans. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a cookout, or enjoying a day at the lake, non-alcoholic spirits like JUNiPRE offer a refreshing way to indulge without the alcohol. Luckily, we’ve concocted several delicious non-alcoholic cocktails that are perfect companions for your favorite late summer activities.

Poolside Refreshment with the Kids

When you’re watching the little ones splash around, you need a drink that’s both refreshing and responsible. These non-alcoholic cocktails are perfect for sipping poolside:

Cucumber Mint Cooler

This light, crisp drink is like a dip in a cool pool on a hot day.

Ingredients:

2 oz JUNiPRE
4-5 thin cucumber slices
6-8 mint leaves
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
Soda water
Cucumber ribbon and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

Muddle cucumber slices and mint leaves in a shaker.
Add JUNiPRE, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill with ice and shake well.
Strain into a tall glass filled with ice.
Top with soda water and stir gently.
Garnish with a cucumber ribbon and mint sprig.

Why it works poolside: The cucumber and mint provide a cooling effect, perfect for hot days by the water. It’s light and hydrating, ideal for responsible adult supervision.

Late Summer Cookouts

Hosting or attending a backyard BBQ? Cookouts are one of the highlights of summer, where we get together with friends and enjoy the long warm evenings and share laughs with friends. These non-alcoholic spirit cocktails are a proven hit:

Watermelon Jalapeño Cooler

A perfect blend of sweet and heat to spice up your summer gathering.

Ingredients:

2 oz JUNiPRE
2 oz fresh watermelon juice
1/2 oz lime juice
2-3 thin jalapeño slices (adjust to taste)
1/4 oz agave syrup
Watermelon ball and jalapeño slice for garnish

Instructions:

Muddle jalapeño slices in a shaker.
Add JUNiPRE, watermelon juice, lime juice, and agave syrup. Fill with ice and shake well.
Double strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a watermelon ball and a thin jalapeño slice on a cocktail pick.

Why it’s great for cookouts: The watermelon freshness pairs wonderfully with grilled foods, while the jalapeño kick stands up to bold BBQ flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser that offers sophistication without the alcohol.

Peach Basil Fizz

Capture the essence of late summer with this peachy delight.

Ingredients:

2 oz JUNiPRE
1 oz peach puree (or 2-3 slices of muddled fresh peach)
3-4 basil leaves
1/2 oz lemon juice
1/4 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and warm water, mixed)
Soda water
Peach slice and basil leaf for garnish

Instructions:

Muddle basil leaves in a shaker.
Add JUNiPRE, peach puree, lemon juice, and honey syrup. Fill with ice and shake vigorously.
Double strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Top with soda water and stir gently.
Garnish with a peach slice and basil leaf.

Why it works for cookouts: Peaches are at their peak in late summer, making this a seasonal treat. The basil adds an herbal note that complements many cookout dishes.

Lakeside Lounging

Let’s face it: living anywhere in the upper Midwest means you’re going to be visiting a lake during summer. Whether you’re on a boat or relaxing on the shore, these non-alcoholic cocktails are perfect for a day at the lake:

Lemongrass Thai Basil Spritzer

An exotic, aromatic sipper that adds a touch of adventure to your lake day.

Ingredients:

2 oz JUNiPRE
1 oz lemongrass syrup (see recipe below)
1/2 oz lime juice
4-5 Thai basil leaves
Soda water
Lemongrass stalk and Thai basil sprig for garnish

Lemongrass Syrup: Simmer 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 2 bruised lemongrass stalks for 10 minutes. Cool and strain.

Instructions:

In a shaker, muddle Thai basil leaves.
Add JUNiPRE, lemongrass syrup, and lime juice. Fill with ice and shake well.
Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
Top with soda water and stir gently.
Garnish with a lemongrass stalk and Thai basil sprig.

Why it’s perfect lakeside: This refreshing, aromatic drink is like a vacation in a glass. It’s light and hydrating, ideal for long days in the sun.

Outdoor Brunch Party

We can think of few things better than a brunch party in August. It’s a perfect blend of friends, food and fun. Hosting a late summer brunch? Impress your guests with these sophisticated non-alcoholic brunch cocktails:

Blackberry Lavender Lemonade

A sophisticated twist on a summer classic, perfect for brunch.

Ingredients:

2 oz JUNiPRE
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz lavender syrup (see recipe below)
4-5 fresh blackberries
Soda water
Lemon wheel and lavender sprig for garnish

Lavender Syrup: Simmer 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 2 tbsp dried lavender for 10 minutes. Cool and strain.

Instructions:

In a shaker, muddle blackberries.
Add JUNiPRE, lemon juice, and lavender syrup. Fill with ice and shake vigorously.
Double strain into a collins glass filled with ice.
Top with soda water and stir gently.
Garnish with a lemon wheel and lavender sprig.

Why it’s great for brunch: The combination of blackberry and lavender offers a sophisticated flavor profile that pairs well with both sweet and savory brunch dishes. It’s a non-alcoholic cocktail that feels special enough for a gathering.

N/A Rosemary Grapefruit Spritz

A citrusy, herbal drink that’s perfect for morning sipping.

Ingredients:

2 oz JUNiPRE
1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
1/2 oz rosemary syrup (simmer 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 3-4 rosemary sprigs for 10 minutes, cool and strain)
Soda water
Grapefruit wedge and rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions:

In a wine glass filled with ice, combine JUNiPRE, grapefruit juice, and rosemary syrup.
Top with soda water and stir gently.
Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and rosemary sprig.

Why it works for brunch: The bright citrus notes wake up the palate, while the rosemary adds a sophisticated herbal touch. It’s a non-alcoholic spirit cocktail that feels festive without the morning-after effects.

Tips for Serving Non-Alcoholic Cocktails at Summer Events

Presentation matters: Use attractive glassware and garnishes to make your non-alcoholic cocktails look as appealing as their alcoholic counterparts.
Offer variety: Have a few different non-alcoholic options available to suit different tastes.
Make it interactive: Set up a DIY cocktail station with JUNiPRE and various mixers so guests can create their own non-alcoholic drinks.
Consider batching: For larger gatherings, consider making bigger batches of these cocktails for easy serving.
Don’t forget ice: Plenty of ice is crucial for keeping these summer sippers cool and refreshing.

We hope these creative non-alcoholic cocktails help you enjoy all of your favorite late-summer activities while staying refreshed and clear-headed. JUNiPRE’s versatility as a non-alcoholic spirit allows you to create sophisticated, flavorful drinks that don’t compromise on taste or experience.

Whether you’re watching the kids at the pool, hosting a cookout, relaxing by the lake, or throwing a brunch party, these non-alcoholic cocktails prove that you don’t need alcohol to create memorable summer drinks. So raise a glass to the joys of late summer and savor the flavors of well-made cocktails without the brain fog.

Remember: drink responsibly, stay hydrated, and enjoy your late summer activities to the fullest using these refreshing non-alcoholic cocktails.

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Pairing JUNiPRE Non-Alcoholic Spirits with Food

Helpful Ways to Elevate Your Dining Experience

The art of pairing drinks with food has long been a cornerstone of fine dining. Traditionally, this meant selecting the perfect wine or cocktail to complement a meal. But with the rise of sophisticated non-alcoholic spirits like JUNiPRE, a new world of pairing possibilities has opened up. Whether you’re abstaining from alcohol or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons, this guide will help you elevate your dining experience through thoughtful non-alcoholic pairings.

Understanding Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Before we dive into pairings, let’s talk about what makes non-alcoholic spirits like JUNiPRE unique. Unlike simple fruit juices or sodas, these sophisticated alternatives are crafted to mimic the complexity of traditional spirits. JUNiPRE, for instance, offers a versatile flavor profile that can stand in for various clear spirits such as gin, vodka, or white rum in different recipes and pairings.

The Basics of Food and Drink Pairing

Whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic, the principles of pairing remain the same:

Complement or Contrast: Flavors can either complement each other (like a citrusy drink with fish) or provide an interesting contrast (like a spicy cocktail with a creamy dish).
Consider Intensity: The drink shouldn’t overpower the food, or vice versa. They should be well-balanced.
Regional Pairings: Often, drinks and foods from the same region pair well together.
Acidity and Sweetness: Acidic drinks can cut through rich, fatty foods, while sweeter drinks can balance spicy dishes.
Texture: Consider how the texture of the drink interacts with the texture of the food.

Pairing JUNiPRE with Different Cuisines

We’ve come up with a few basic pairings that show how JUNiPRE-based cocktails can compliment various cuisines:

Mediterranean Cuisine
Mediterranean dishes often feature fresh, light flavors with plenty of herbs and olive oil. A JUNiPRE and tonic with a sprig of rosemary can beautifully complement these flavors.

Pairing: JUNiPRE & Tonic with Grilled Sea Bass

2 oz JUNiPRE
4 oz premium tonic water
Rosemary sprig and lemon wheel for garnish

The herbal notes in JUNiPRE enhance the fresh, lemony flavors of the fish, while the effervescence of the tonic cuts through the richness of any accompanying olive oil.

Asian Cuisine

The bold, complex flavors of Asian cuisine call for equally bold drinks. JUNiPRE can be used to create a non-alcoholic version of a classic Gimlet, which pairs well with many Asian dishes.

Pairing: N/A Gimlet with Pad Thai

2 oz JUNiPRE
1 oz lime juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
Lime wheel for garnish

The tartness of the Gimlet complements the sweet and sour notes in Pad Thai, while the botanical complexity of JUNiPRE stands up to the dish’s bold flavors.

Mexican Cuisine
The vibrant, often spicy flavors of Mexican food pair wonderfully with citrusy, refreshing drinks. A non-alcoholic Paloma made with JUNiPRE is an excellent choice.

Pairing: N/A Paloma with Fish Tacos

2 oz JUNiPRE
2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
1/2 oz lime juice
Soda water to top
Grapefruit wedge for garnish

The bright citrus flavors of the Paloma complement the fresh fish, while the subtle bitterness cuts through the richness of any accompanying avocado or sour cream.

Italian Cuisine
Italian food, with its emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, pairs beautifully with herbal, refreshing drinks. A JUNiPRE-based non-alcoholic spritz works wonderfully here.

Pairing: N/A Spritz with Margherita Pizza

2 oz JUNiPRE
1 oz non-alcoholic red bitter (like Lyre’s Italian Spritz)
3 oz alcohol-free sparkling wine
Orange slice for garnish

The bitterness and effervescence of the spritz cut through the richness of the cheese, while the herbal notes complement the basil on the pizza.

American BBQ
The bold, smoky flavors of barbecue require a drink that can stand up to them. A non-alcoholic take on a Mule using JUNiPRE fits the bill perfectly.

Pairing: N/A Mule with Pulled Pork Sandwich

2 oz JUNiPRE
1/2 oz lime juice
4 oz ginger beer
Lime wheel and mint sprig for garnish

The spicy ginger beer complements the smoky barbecue flavors, while the lime provides a refreshing contrast to the rich meat.

Pairing with Specific Ingredients

Seafood – Seafood generally pairs well with light, refreshing drinks. A simple JUNiPRE and tonic or a N/A cucumber Collins can beautifully complement most seafood dishes.
Spicy Foods – Spicy foods pair well with slightly sweet or creamy drinks that can temper the heat. A non-alcoholic piña colada using JUNiPRE instead of rum can be a great match.
Cheese – The complexity of JUNiPRE makes it a great pairing for cheese boards. Try a JUNiPRE martini (with non-alcoholic vermouth) alongside a variety of cheeses.
Desserts – For desserts, you’ll want to either complement the sweetness or provide contrast. A JUNiPRE-based non-alcoholic mint julep can be lovely with chocolate desserts.

Tips for Successful Pairing

Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try unexpected combinations. You might discover a new favorite pairing.
Consider the Preparation: The same ingredient can pair differently based on how it’s prepared. Grilled foods might call for different pairings than raw or steamed preparations.
Balance is Key: The goal is for both the food and the drink to enhance each other, not for one to overpower the other.
Temperature Matters: The temperature of both the food and the drink can affect how flavors are perceived. Generally, you’ll want to serve N/A cocktails well-chilled.
Garnishes Can Bridge Flavors: Use garnishes in your N/A cocktails that complement or echo flavors in the dish.

Creating a Non-Alcoholic Pairing Menu

When planning a multi-course meal with non-alcoholic pairings, consider the flow of flavors:

Start Light: Begin with lighter dishes and drinks, like a salad paired with a JUNiPRE and soda with a splash of elderflower cordial.
Progress to Bolder Flavors: Move to more complex dishes and drinks as the meal progresses.
Cleanse the Palate: Between courses, offer a simple JUNiPRE and tonic to refresh the palate.
End on a Sweet Note: Conclude with a dessert paired with a sweeter N/A cocktail, like a JUNiPRE-based non-alcoholic White Russian with a chocolate dessert.

Pairing food with non-alcoholic spirits like JUNiPRE opens up a lot of cool and interesting flavor possibilities, allowing everyone to participate in the full dining experience regardless of their choice to consume alcohol. The versatility of JUNiPRE, with its ability to stand in for various clear spirits, makes it an invaluable tool in creating sophisticated, well-paired non-alcoholic drinks.

Remember, these pairing suggestions are just a starting point. The world of non-alcoholic pairings is still relatively new and ripe for exploration. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own combinations. The goal is to keep it free and loose, and experiment with an emphasis on fun.

With a bottle of JUNiPRE and some creativity, you can elevate your dining experience and win over your friends, proving that you don’t need alcohol to create memorable, well-paired meals. Cheers to the art of non-alcoholic pairing!

Tag: food pairings