Rumless Rickey: Lime and Grenadine Soda Mocktail
A refreshing mocktail that pairs tart lime juice with a touch of grenadine and a fizzy splash of club soda. The Rumless Rickey is a bright, alcohol-free twist on the classic Rickey that delivers crisp citrus flavor with every sip.
A citrusy and colorful mocktail, the Rumless Rickey blends tangy lime, a touch of grenadine, and sparkling club soda for a refreshing sip. This zero-proof twist on the classic Rickey is light, fizzy, and easy to enjoy any time of day.
Background
The Rickey dates back to late 19th-century Washington, D.C., where it became famous as a simple mix of spirit, lime, and soda water. This alcohol-free version keeps the refreshing structure of the original but swaps the spirit for grenadine, making it a family-friendly mocktail with the same crisp finish.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Lime Juice – delivers bright acidity and citrus backbone.
- Grenadine – adds sweetness and a pink hue.
- Bitters (optional, contains alcohol) – introduces aromatic depth if you prefer a low-ABV touch.
- Club Soda – provides fizz and balance.
Equipment
- Whisky tumbler (or old-fashioned glass)
- Bar spoon
Sweet Simplicity in a Glass
This mocktail stands out for its zesty citrus punch paired with just a hint of sweetness. It’s quick to make, visually striking, and refreshing enough to serve at gatherings or to enjoy solo.
Substitutions & Variations
- Use raspberry syrup or pomegranate juice instead of grenadine.
- Swap club soda for sparkling water for a softer finish.
- Omit bitters entirely for a fully alcohol-free version.
Helpful Tips
- Garnish with a long twist or wheel of lime for extra aroma.
- Serve over large ice cubes to slow dilution.
- Pair with light snacks like salted nuts or fresh fruit for balance.
Rumless Rickey Recipe
Type of Glass
Whisky Tumbler
Ingredients
- 1 oz.
- 1 dash
- 1 dash
Directions
- Add lime juice and grenadine to a whisky tumbler with three to four large ice cubes.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Add bitters (optional, contains alcohol) if desired.
- Top with club soda.
- Garnish with a slice of lime.
The Rumless Rickey proves you don’t need alcohol to enjoy a drink that’s crisp, colorful, and full of character.
