Monday Night Mocktails: 52 Drinks to Welcome the Week

This appealing follow-up to A.J. Dean’s Friday Night Cocktails presents 52 nonalcoholic drink recipes, one for each Monday of the year, centered around the “growing numbers of high-quality” zero-proof liquors. “Inspired by classic cocktails,” the virgin margarita calls for zero-proof tequila while the cucumber gimlette requires zero-proof gin. A nonalcoholic stout float is inspired by Guinness’s zero-alcohol variety while the grapefruit fizz calls for chilled hop water, a “fizzy blend of sparkling water and aromatic hops.” Recipes are separated by season; the blackberry sparkler, for spring, and the nectarine bellini, for fall, both feature fresh fruits and nonalcoholic sparkling wines. Fall and winter drinks include a pumpkin spice toddy and “Irish-ish” coffee, both made with zero-proof whiskey. Newens strives for creative pairings; noting that zero-proof liquors aren’t great for “sipping straight,” she adds elderflower syrup and pear to the Peartini. Only a few drinks don’t include zero-proof spirits, including the peach rosemary tonic and a watermelon ginger cooler. A repeated emphasis on “high-quality” nonalcoholic liquors suggests a difference among brands, but, disappointingly, Newens offers no guidance in making selections. Still, helpful sidebars (including on how to muddle and how to make citrus twists) and recipes for flavorful syrups make this a handy resource enhanced by vibrant photos. Those looking to expand their mocktail repertoire will be pleased. (Oct.)