Cookbook Review: Monday Night Mocktails

With Dry January upon us, my mind is on mocktails. But as I browsed Monday Night Mocktails: 52 Drinks to Welcome the Week (Collective Book Studio, 2024), I realized these zero-proof pours should absolutely be enjoyed year-round, for whatever reason you would like to avoid alcohol. The author, Jen Newens, included a mocktail for every week of the year to make your evenings special “even on a Monday.” The book is thoughtful and approachable, with simple recipes for each season, along with glassware and garnish recommendations for every mocktail. 

I tested two recipes, the virgin margarita and Liquid Apple Pie, wanting both classic and creative, chilled and hot. Just up the road from me in Charleston is Sechey, a low- and no-ABV beverage shop where I sampled zero-proof tequilas and rums. The winners were DHOS Blanco Tequila Free, a 0% ABV liquor infused with agave and tamarind that has a peppery kick, and CleanCo Clean R, a non-alcoholic spiced rum with mild notes of caramel, vanilla, and cinnamon.