Friends drinking n/a cocktails at a party

The JUNiPRE Guide to Entertaining with N/A Spirits

 
 
Gone are the days when non-alcoholic options at parties were limited to sodas and fruit juices. With the rise of sophisticated non-alcoholic spirits like JUNiPRE, hosts can now offer guests a full range of exciting, complex drinks – with or without alcohol. This practical guide will help you navigate the world of entertaining with N/A spirits, ensuring all your guests feel included and enjoy top-notch beverages.


Why Include N/A Spirits in Your Drink Menu?

Before we dive into the how-to’s, let’s consider why you might want to stock N/A spirits like JUNiPRE for your next gathering:

  1. Inclusivity: Not everyone drinks alcohol, whether for health reasons, personal choice, or because they’re the designated driver. Offering high-quality N/A options ensures everyone feels welcome.
  2. Versatility: Products like JUNiPRE can replace various clear spirits in cocktails, allowing you to create a wide range of drinks with just one bottle.
  3. Health-conscious option: With zero calories and zero sugar, N/A spirits like JUNiPRE cater to health-conscious guests without sacrificing flavor.
  4. Responsible hosting: Providing attractive N/A options encourages responsible drinking and ensures everyone can participate in toasts and drinking rituals.


Setting Up Your N/A Bar

Creating a dedicated space for N/A drinks signals to your guests that these options are just as valued as alcoholic ones. Here’s how to set it up:

  1. Stock the Essentials:
    • N/A spirits like JUNiPRE
    • Various mixers (tonic water, club soda, ginger beer, etc.)
    • Fresh fruits for garnish (lemons, limes, oranges, berries)
    • Herbs for garnish and muddling (mint, basil, rosemary)
    • Ice
    • Cocktail tools (shaker, strainer, muddler, jigger)
  2. Glassware: Offer a variety of glasses to make N/A drinks feel special:
    • Highball glasses
    • Rocks glasses
    • Martini glasses
    • Wine glasses for spritzers
  3. Create a Menu: Display a menu of N/A cocktail options. This not only guides guests but also showcases the thought you’ve put into your N/A offerings.


Crafting N/A Cocktails with JUNiPRE

JUNiPRE’s versatility allows you to create a wide range of cocktails traditionally made with different clear spirits. Here are a few crowd-pleasing options:

  1. JUNiPRE & Tonic:
    • 2 oz JUNiPRE
    • 4-5 oz tonic water
    • Garnish with lime wedge and juniper berries
  2. N/A Moscow Mule:
    • 2 oz JUNiPRE
    • 1/2 oz lime juice
    • 4-5 oz ginger beer
    • Garnish with lime wheel and mint sprig
  3. Alcohol-Free Paloma:
    • 2 oz JUNiPRE
    • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
    • 1/2 oz lime juice
    • 2-3 oz club soda
    • Garnish with grapefruit slice
  4. Virgin Mojito:
    • 2 oz JUNiPRE
    • 1 oz simple syrup
    • 1/2 oz lime juice
    • 6-8 mint leaves
    • Top with club soda
    • Garnish with mint sprig and lime wheel
  5. N/A Margarita:
    • 2 oz JUNiPRE
    • 1 oz lime juice
    • 1/2 oz agave syrup
    • Garnish with lime wheel and salt rim (optional)


Tips for Serving N/A Cocktails

  1. Presentation Matters: Serve N/A cocktails in appropriate glassware with attractive garnishes. The visual appeal will make these drinks just as enticing as their alcoholic counterparts.
  2. Ice is Key: Use large, clear ice cubes for a more upscale look. They also melt slower, preventing dilution.
  3. Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly squeezed juices and quality mixers for the best flavor.
  4. Offer Customization: Set up a “build your own” station where guests can mix JUNiPRE with various mixers and garnishes.
  5. Temperature Control: Chill glasses and N/A spirits beforehand for the best drinking experience.


Pairing N/A Cocktails with Food

Just like alcoholic drinks, N/A cocktails can be paired with food to enhance the dining experience. Here are some suggestions:

  1. JUNiPRE & Tonic: Pairs well with light appetizers like bruschetta or seafood dishes.
  2. N/A Moscow Mule: Complements spicy foods or Asian cuisine.
  3. Alcohol-Free Paloma: Great with Mexican dishes or grilled meats.
  4. Virgin Mojito: Pairs nicely with Caribbean or Cuban foods, or light salads.
  5. N/A Margarita: Excellent with tacos, guacamole, or any Tex-Mex dishes.


Handling Common Scenarios
 
The Skeptical Guest: Some guests might be hesitant about N/A spirits. Offer them a taste and explain the craftsmanship behind products like JUNiPRE. Often, the complexity of flavor wins them over.

Mixing Drinkers and Non-Drinkers: Create an inclusive atmosphere by serving both alcoholic and N/A versions of the same cocktails. This way, everyone can enjoy similar drinks regardless of their choice to consume alcohol or not.

The Designated Driver: Make sure to clearly label N/A options and actively offer them to designated drivers. They’ll appreciate having sophisticated drink options.

Health-Conscious Guests: Highlight the zero-calorie, zero-sugar aspects of JUNiPRE for guests watching their intake.

The Mocktail Enthusiast: For guests used to fruity mocktails, introduce them to the world of N/A spirits gradually. Start with lighter, sweeter cocktails before moving to more complex flavors.

 
Creating the Right Atmosphere

  1. Music: Choose a playlist that sets the right mood without overpowering conversation.
  2. Lighting: Soft, warm lighting creates a welcoming ambiance. Consider candles or string lights for a cozy feel.
  3. Seating: Arrange seating to encourage mingling and conversation.
  4. Activities: Consider including some light activities or games that don’t revolve around drinking, ensuring all guests can participate fully.

Entertaining with N/A spirits like JUNiPRE opens up a world of possibilities for hosts who want to ensure all their guests feel included and enjoy high-quality drinks. By treating your N/A offerings with the same care and attention as alcoholic options, you create an atmosphere of inclusiveness and laid-back fun.


Remember, the key to successful entertaining is making your guests feel welcome and comfortable, regardless of their drinking preferences. With this guide and a bottle of JUNiPRE, you’re well-equipped to host gatherings that everyone can enjoy to the fullest. Cheers to inclusive, mindful, and delicious entertaining!