Cocktail versus Mocktail: What is the difference?

Strong drinks and syrups are popularly consumed by many people across the globe. It has become a cultural activity among the population. Many drinks have become a regular for people, for example, beer and wine is consumed at all the times of the day. ‘Having drinks’ has become an activity and a trend for chilling with friends, family and colleagues. It has become an ice breaker on many occasions. There are various companies which distribute ice cube machines Dubai which are useful for cocktails and mocktails.

A party or a gathering cannot hold without offering drinks or beverages to the guests. This is an age old tradition found in many cultures even today. Various drinks are enjoyed by people as they allow them to unwind and relax. Drinks can be strong or soft in nature. To avoid the uncomfortable situation for people who drink only syrups and purees, a unique way of serving cocktails was introduced which is a mix of drinks or ingredients which are not so strong in nature. These drinks are Mocktails.

Broadly, drinks are classified as Cocktails and Mocktails. They are different from each other, but often confused with each other. This blog attempts to clear the confusion between the two.

• Cocktail

A cocktail is a strong drink that is mixed with a type of syrup with other soft drinks, juices or even fruits. According to the definition by Oxford dictionary, a cocktail must have at least one strong drink, one sugary or sweet drink and one bitter or sour drink. Originally, a cocktail would be a mixture of water, sugar, spirit and a bitter ingredient. But now, the ingredient mix has extended to creams, juices, fruits, honey and soda or herbs. It is not clear as to who the creator of cocktail was, but it is evident that it was consumed commonly since 18th century. The theory of the origin of the word is that the colours of the drinks mixed made people think of a rooster’s tail. This led to its name being ‘Cocktail’.

• Mocktail

The word ‘Mocktail’ comes from a mimic or ‘mock’ which is to imitate something. A Mocktail imitates cocktail except that it does not contain any strong drinks. The ingredients of a Mocktail are everything of that a cocktail like syrups, water, purees and fruits. It is also referred to as a ‘virgin cocktail’ or ‘punches’. Mocktails are ideal for all those who do not drink in the gathering. It is the best drink for elderly people, children or pregnant women who are not supposed to consume any strong drinks. Having Mocktails at your party will ensure everyone has a good time. It is a unique idea that mocks Cocktail but does not contain any toxic syrups.

Though there are certain standardized drinks, Mocktails can be prepared by anyone at home by mixing fruit syrups and juices. Mock cocktails are known as Mocktails.

Go on enjoy some awesome Cocktails and Mocktails by mixing the ingredients according to your preferences!

Aileen is the author of this article on Espresso . Find more information, about Coffee & Espresso.