We may not subscribe to the theory that the term “mocktail” was first coined as an insult, but it’s fair to say that early non-alcoholic mixed drinks were nothing to write home about. They were often just juice with a fancy garnish, and they weren’t taken seriously. So much has changed since then, and in 2025, non-alcoholic cocktails are one of the categories we’re most excited about.
Today, we believe that any drinks program isn’t fully realized without taking non-alc seriously, and few bartenders are doing more to push the category forward than Austin Hennelly of Kato in Los Angeles. At Kato, Hennelly is forging an exciting new path, rethinking non-alcoholic wine and creating systems that ensure guests who don’t drink are never accidentally served alcohol.
Today, Hennelly makes his second appearance on “Cocktail College” to share his wealth of expertise on the category through quick tips and advanced techniques. It’s safety first, finding balance, and rethinking cocktails from the ground up. And it’s all right here on the “Cocktail College” podcast. Tune in for more.
Listen Online
Austin’s Simple Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- Non-alcoholic beer of choice
- ½ ounce lime juice
- ½ ounce non-alcoholic aperitif
- Garnish: lime wedge
Directions
- Pour all ingredients into a pint glass filled with ice.
- Stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Get in touch: [email protected]
Related episodes:
(29) Techniques: Non-Alcoholic Cocktails
(181) Picon Bière
Follow us on Instagram:
