It seems that a lot of people I am acquainted with are reconsidering their connection to alcohol nowadays. Following the disruptions in our lives in 2020, a number of us have adapted to new drinking habits that are quite difficult to break free from. When I eventually gave in and installed TikTok a couple of months back, I encountered even more individuals who were interested in sobriety. I concluded that it was about time to seek out a substitute beverage for relaxing after a day’s work.
I have been aware of Curious Elixirs for a couple of years now, since the emergence of the sober curious trend. The company was established in 2015—prior to my acquaintance with the term “sober curious”—and is dedicated to creating top-notch alcohol-free cocktails. Curious Elixirs is of the opinion that these non-alcoholic beverages should be “exceptionally delicious, expertly crafted, and beneficial for both the body and soul.
.” This is why their ingredients consist of adaptogens and aphrodisiacs blended with other organic components by renowned mixologists and herbalists.
(For those unfamiliar with adaptogens, they are safe, body-regulating substances that aid in managing physical and mental stress. Count me in!)
It always seemed a bit too good to be true, and I frequently found myself revisiting the company’s website with one burning question: would they truly taste and feel like a viable substitute for my preferred happy hour drinks?
I opted for the 24-drink variety pack to introduce a new beverage into our routine with my partner. Upon its arrival, I was initially disappointed to find that the drinks were contained in 12 standard-sized cans and bottles—I had doubted it would be sufficient. However, as we began pouring, it became evident that splitting a can or bottle was quite reasonable, especially when served over ice (hence the 12-pack of bottles being marketed as a 24-drink pack).
Each bottle includes a suggestion on how to garnish the cocktail, which is much fancier than I can manage! Nevertheless, I now make sure to have more lemons on hand.
The flavors in the variety pack change monthly depending on supply chain availability. Here are the potential flavors you may receive, along with the benefits of some of their key ingredients:
- Curious Elixir No. 1 is a Pomegranate Negroni that contains rhodiola as a mood booster and pick-me-up.
- Curious Elixir No. 2 is a Spicy Marg Meets A Dark & Stormy that contains damiana, a Mayan aphrodisiac.
- Curious Elixir No. 3 is a Cucumber Collins that contains ashwagandha to support mood and memory.
- Curious Elixir No. 4 is a Sicilian Spritz that contains rhubarb root for stress relief.
- Curious Elixir No. 5 is a Smoked Cherry Chocolate Old Fashioned that contains shatavari, a body-balancing Ayurvedic aphrodisiac.
- Curious Elixir No. 6 is a Coconut Oatmilk Painkiller that contains lemon balm and nutmeg for mood boosting and stress relief.
- Curious Elixir No. 7 is a Champagne Cocktail that contains Chardonnay grapes, and green tea as a pick-me-up and lavender as a mood booster.
I have been a subscriber for a few months and have sampled all the flavors. Among them, my preferred choices have been numbers two and five.
Curious Elixir No. 2 offers a delightful margarita alternative with a blend of ginger and ancho chili, resulting in a rich and flavorful sip—perfect for enjoying on the front porch. On the other hand, Curious Elixir No.
5, a smoked cherry chocolate old fashioned, is perfect for those moments when you feel like “sitting in a housecoat in a large old library while a fire crackles nearby.” It contains oak and chicory, as well as cacao and elderberry.
As for No. 6, the Coconut Oatmilk Painkiller, I must admit that it did not quite meet my expectations. I made the mistake of adding ice, which diluted the plant-based milk and left a less than desirable taste. However, the brand does recommend enjoying the cocktail neat, so I will give that a try next time.
Upon my initial experience with a Cucumber Collins, I savored it slowly throughout the evening without feeling the urge to finish it quickly, despite my initial concerns due to the drink’s costliness. The most cost-effective option is the monthly cocktail club, priced at $89 for 24 servings.
I found myself with a small amount left by the end of the night and decided to take my time with it. Although it had the taste of a cocktail, I refrained from consuming it hastily, especially right before bedtime.
I reminded myself that it contained herbs and adaptogens, allowing me to enjoy the remaining portion without worrying about feeling drowsy the next morning. The ingredients of this particular cocktail consist of juniper, ashwagandha, orange blossom, lemon verbena, and angelica.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- While Curious Elixirs are more expensive than a 12-pack of beer, you won’t find yourself reaching for one more impulsively and can easily share each bottle with someone (or spin around for seconds, why not!?).
- The adaptogens are calming and gave me a slight buzzy, relaxed feeling.
- The texture of the drinks does have a little sparkle to it, which is nice if you’re swapping out a favorite cocktail! I highly recommend following the garnish recommendations on the bottle.
- Some of the drinks can be a little “thick” thanks to the organic fruit juices, but nothing a good ice cube can’t fix!
