I’m sure I’m not the first cocktail blogger to be skeptical of non-alcoholic spirits. I’ve tried a few in cocktails over the years with varying results. So far, I’ve liked the ones that don’t profess to be specifically mimicking a specific type of liquor. (Although, I did have a pretty good non-alcoholic cocktail in Oklahoma City recently.) It’s fair to say that if you need a whiskey-like flavor in your drink, and are avoiding alcohol, it’s certainly passable. I also know bartenders who use n/a spirits to bring down the overall ABV of a cocktail. This is a great reason for a substitution. But I love gin and tequila and whiskey and hadn’t found a good reason for trying or buying anything else. That’s until I tried Three Spirit Drinks. They are great alone, or in a drink. Let’s explore the flavors together!
I received free samples of Three Spirit Drinks. I was not paid for this review and only endorse products I actually like.
What are Three Spirit Drinks?
Three Spirit Drinks are non-alcoholic drinks that come in three flavors. They are made with natural, plant-based ingredients. Herbalists, bartenders, artists, and plant scientists worked together to blend plants with healing and stimulating properties together in your glass. Through the blends of natural ingredients, they induce feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and energy, depending on the blend. A serving is as simple as two ounces at room temperature to a mocktail over ice or even a cocktail. Each of the three flavors produce a different vibe. They each taste really great and two have a slightly spicy tingle to them. They are vegan and gluten free. You can use them in a variety of ways, which we’ll explore now.
Nightcap
With ingredients like tree sap, hops, and turmeric, Nightcap is dreamy. I tried this flavor first and after drinking it, I honestly felt more relaxed. The tasting notes are described as “decadent, woody, & smooth.” It also contains ingredients like valerian and lemon balm which have been used for centuries for sleep and to reduce anxiety. I drank two ounces at room temperature and found it very enjoyable. Three Spirit Drinks also suggests mixing each of their blends into a non-alcoholic drink. I tried that and also made a cocktail with each.
Given that the Nightcap is already a little spicy, it seemed perfect to make it into a Mule. This drink is honestly good with or without the vodka. Since vodka is a neutral spirit, the flavors of the spices and herbs can still stand out. Definitely give this one a try! I am going to use it in an Old Fashioned riff next.
Nightcap Mule
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Three Spirit Drinks Nightcap
- 1.5 oz vodka (optional)
- 3 oz ginger beer
- 0.25 oz lime juice
Instructions
- Combine Nightcap, lime juice, and vodka into a shaker with ice.
- Shake for 10-20 seconds and strain into a rocks glass over ice.
- Top with ginger beer and serve.
Social Elixir
If a tingle of spice or a dash of caffeine aren’t for you, you’ll love the Social Elixir. It’s described as “dark, bittersweet, and curious.” The balance between the big flavors of rye, molasses, and cacao keep your tastebuds busy. I definitely need to try this one on its own again to isolate whether I got calm and connected vibes after drinking it, as promised. (I tasted this one after tasting the other two which made it harder to detect.) As soon as I tasted it, I knew it was the perfect pairing for a tequila cocktail. It was the perfect excuse to try a summer staple, Ranch Water. This is a fun and easy cocktail that you make right in the bottle. Perfect for a party!
Social Ranch Water
Ingredients
- 1 bottle Topo Chico (chilled)
- 2 oz Three Spirit Drinks Social Elixir
- 1 oz tequila (optional)
Instructions
- Open the bottle of Topo Chico and pour out or drink some of it.
- Slowly add the Social Elixir and tequila directly into the bottle. Take a sip and enjoy!
Livener
Last, but certainly not least is the invigorating Livener. Made with watermelon, berries, hibiscus, and lots of natural caffeine, the third blend from Three Spirit Drinks is a winner. The color is beautiful and the flavors are delicious. It might just be the power of suggestion, but it did make me feel like dancing when I drank it. I think the flavors could work in a lot of great drinks. For a fun twist on a Gin & Tonic, I added Livener to tonic (for an n/a drink) and to gin for a light and refreshing cocktail. Both worked very well.
Livener & Tonic (with or without gin)
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Three Spirit Drinks Livener
- 3 oz Tonic water
- 1 oz gin (optional)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a glass with ice and gently stir.
- Add a lime wheel for garnish and serve.
And there you have a journey through the flavors of Three Spirit Drinks. They would be great for your bar or as a gift. If you’re still looking for unique cocktail or mocktail ideas, these vegan cocktails are great. You can easily leave out the booze and still wow your tastebuds. Cheers!
