Top 7 Italian Non-Alcoholic Drinks & Mocktails
If you’re looking for a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy an Italian-inspired beverage without any alcohol, then look no further! Non-alcoholic and mocktail drinks have been popular in Italy since the Renaissance period. These drinks are perfect for those who appreciate the flavors of Italy but want to stick to non-alcoholic options.
From the fruity Virgin Sangria to the sweet Italian Cream Soda, there’s something for everyone. So let’s explore some of these delicious drink options and learn how to make them from the comfort of your own home.
1. Italian-Style Virgin Sangria
Virgin Sangria has become my go-to recipe for a refreshing non-alcoholic Italian beverage. This delicious mocktail has a rich history in Italy, where it originated in the Renaissance. The name ‘Sangria’ originated from the Spanish term ‘sangre,’ meaning blood, which represents the drink’s red color.
To make Virgin Sangria, you need fresh fruits like apples, oranges, lemons, limes, peaches, and/or berries and your choice of juices such as red grape, white grape, orange, lemon, and lime juice.
The best part? It’s so easy to make this delightful drink. Start by layering the sliced fruit in a glass pitcher, adding some cinnamon sticks, and then adding all the juices. Gently stir them all together and then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours but overnight is much better! Serve the Virgin Sangria over ice in a glass and garnish with a citrus slice.
So the next time you’re searching for the perfect beverage for your next dinner party, try this delicious Virgin Sangria recipe. Just serve it with your favorite Italian dish, and your guests will love it!
2. Strawberry-Basil Shrub Mocktail
I recently discovered Italian Strawberry-Basil Shrub, a mocktail that’s both refreshing and delicious. Did you know that in 17th century England making shrubs with vinegar was used as a way to preserve fruit?
This mocktail is made with balsamic strawberries (strawberries soaked in balsamic vinegar), basil, and sugar, which are all mixed together and then left to steep overnight. The next day, you can strain the mixture and add sparkling water for a fizzy kick.
I love to serve this mocktail to my friends during summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings. The bright red color from the strawberries and the refreshing taste makes it a hit every time.
3. Bramble Mocktail
I don’t know about you, but I’m always on the hunt for a delicious non-alcoholic drink option. That’s where the Bramble Mocktail comes in!
This fruity concoction is made with blackberries, juniper berries, lemon juice, a spring of rosemary, and sugar – you know that’s going to taste amazing, right? The real magic happens when you add a splash of soda water and some crushed ice. And the best part? You can enjoy all this flavor without a drop of alcohol.
As someone who loves trying new things, I’d say the Bramble Mocktail is definitely worth a shot. So next time you’re out at a bar or restaurant and looking for something fun and refreshing, give it a try!
4. Spritz
I recently discovered Spritz and I must say, it’s my new guilty pleasure. Originating from Italy, this drink is very popular in Italian culture and has become a popular aperitif all over the world. The best part? It’s alcohol-free!
Spritz is the non-alcoholic version of an Aperol Spritz Aperitivo. We can’t call it an Aperol Spritz because once you don’t include Aperol (an Italian bitter apéritif)… well, it is just a Spritz!
To make a Spritz, all you need to do is pour 3 parts orange juice, 2 parts non-alcoholic bitter, and 1 part tonic water into a wine glass filled with ice and garnish with an orange or lemon slice. Then sit back in your garden and take in the fresh air while sipping on your Spritz.
5. Gingermore Mocktail
As someone who loves exploring different cultures, I was excited to try the Gingermore Mocktail, which originates from none other than Italy. This refreshing drink is the perfect balance of sweet and sour, and the ginger gives it a nice kick.
The ingredients consist of 2 slices of ginger, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 4 blackberries, and a splash of club soda. To make it, simply muddle the blackberries and ginger at the bottom of a glass and then add the lime juice, club soda, and ice. Garnish your drink with a bit of lemon peel, a couple of blackberries, and a sprig of mint. Then sit back and enjoy!
The Gingermore Mocktail is a great option for those who want a flavorful and refreshing beverage without the added alcohol. I’ll definitely be making this mocktail again at my next gathering with friends.
6. Peroni Libera
Have you ever heard of Peroni Libera? No? Well, let me tell you all about this refreshing Italian non-alcoholic beer.
Peroni Libera was first introduced in Italy in 2019. It is made with high-quality ingredients, including barley malt, maize, hop extract, and water. The brewing method of Peroni Libera is carefully crafted, with different temperatures and brew times, resulting in a crisp, clear taste that still maintains a good amount of carbonation.
One thing that sets Peroni Libera apart from other mocktails on my list is that it’s a great substitute for those who want to enjoy a beer without the alcohol. Plus, it’s perfect for any summer occasion, be it a barbeque or a beach day.
Fun fact: Peroni Libera is the first non-alcoholic beer made by the Peroni family in over 170 years. So, why not give it a try?
7. Italian Cream Soda
Ah, Italian Cream Soda — one of my all-time favorite mocktails! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this refreshing drink is loved by many all around the world.
Did you know that the origins of this fizzy concoction actually date back to 1925 and was actually invented in the US? Italian immigrants Rinaldo and Ezilda Torre used flavored syrup recipes that originated in Lucca, Italy to create this delightful drink which they introduced in San Francisco, CA.
Today, it’s a popular choice on café menus and can be easily recreated at home with a few key ingredients — cold club soda, heavy cream, flavored syrup, and ice. The method is very simple — half fill your glass with ice, add the club soda and flavored syrup, and then top with heavy cream. Top with whipped cream and a garnish of your choice. Just before you take your first sip, stir it quickly to mix in the cream.
So, whip up an Italian Cream Soda today – I think you’ll love it!
Wrapping It Up
Italian non-alcoholic drinks and mocktails provide an amazing and flavorful alternative to alcoholic drinks. Whether you’re looking for something fruity, fizzy, or creamy, there’s an Italian mocktail out there that will hit the spot.
From Bramble Mocktails to Peroni Libera non-alcoholic beer, these delicious beverages can transport you to the cafes of Italy without any worries about alcohol consumption. So why not take the opportunity to explore the culture and flavors of Italy through these amazing mocktails?
Cin cin!
