Mocktails of the Month
Blackberry Margarita, Salt & Pepper Cup and Apple Cider Not-a-Rita
Where to Find Them
Chesapeake & Maine, 316 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach; 226-3600; dogfish.com;
Piccolina Toscana, 1412 N. Dupont St., Wilmington; 654-8001; piccolinatoscana.com
Those who make New Year’s resolutions often start the year on a healthy note. Enter Dryuary, a month-long break from alcohol. Love it or hate it, the movement has exploded in the last 15 years. Consider that the 2023 Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report found that 57% of global consumers planned to follow Dry January last year, with 40% expecting to drink more nonalcoholic and low-ABV drinks throughout 2023. And the numbers are increasing.
In response, Chesapeake & Maine in Rehoboth Beach rolled out a nonalcoholic drink section this month, featuring such mocktails as the Blackberry Margarita and booze-free version of the Salt & Pepper Cup, normally made with Dogfish Head spirits.
At Piccolina Toscana in Trolley Square, the Apple Cider Not-a-Rita has après-ski vibes without the risk of a hangover. Instead of Cointreau and tequila, bartender Brian Walsh uses orange juice and agave syrup. (Cocktail and mocktail versions both include lime juice and apple cider.)
Expect more mocktails—and alcohol-free wine and beer—on area restaurant menus in 2024. Cheers!
Related: Ferrari Brut Is the Perfect Celebratory Drink in Delaware
