Best Mocktails and Classic Cocktails to Enjoy This Fourth of July
Whether you're firing up the grill, lounging by the pool, or watching fireworks light up the night sky, the perfect drink can elevate your Fourth of July celebration. This year, we’re spotlighting some of the finest ready-to-serve mocktails and classic cocktails that balance award-winning taste with effortless summertime vibes. Straight from the finalists of the 2025 San Francisco Ready to Drink Competition, these standout selections prove you don’t need to be a mixologist to impress your guests.
Best in Class Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Finalists
Perfect for designated drivers, wellness enthusiasts, or anyone who just wants to pace themselves, these mocktails offer all the flavor, none of the fuzziness.
St. Agrestis – Phony Mezcal Negroni
A smoky, bitter, and herbaceous nod to the beloved mezcal negroni, this spirit-free option comes from St. Agrestis, known for its Italian-inspired, botanical-forward beverages. Bold enough to sip solo, it’s equally at home with a slice of orange and a cube of ice.
Blind Tiger Spirit-Free – Bee’s Knees
An elegant and floral twist on the classic Prohibition-era cocktail, this ready-to-drink mocktail uses non-alcoholic gin and fresh lemon and honey flavors. Blind Tiger Spirit-Free crafts sophisticated zero-proof cocktails that nod to 1920s speakeasies, with none of the secrecy required.
Tradition Mocktails – El Guapo (Jalisco Punch)
Bright, juicy, and tropical, El Guapo is a crowd-pleasing punch that blends citrus, spice, and a hint of agave-inspired sweetness. Tradition Mocktails is making waves by delivering complex, celebratory drinks that rival their spirited counterparts.
Best in Class Classic Cocktail Finalists
These award-winning bottled cocktails bring classic flavor profiles, with zero prep needed.
HBD Cocktail Co. – Whiskey War Old Fashioned
Crafted with high-rye bourbon from Whiskey War and a house blend of bitters, this Old Fashioned is a bold and spicy staple. HBD Cocktail Co. is dedicated to bringing craft bar-quality cocktails to your cooler or home bar cart.
Oakside Cocktail Company – Rye Old Fashioned
For purists who crave that peppery rye kick, Oakside’s version brings depth, smoothness, and just the right touch of citrus zest. It’s an elevated classic made for sipping under the stars.
Slow & Low – Proper Rye Old-Fashioned
Known for pushing boundaries, Slow & Low delivers a true-to-style, full-bodied Old Fashioned. Think of it as your all-American cocktail.
The Cocktail Collection – Bulleit Manhattan
Rich and robust, this bottled Manhattan is made with Bulleit Bourbon and premium vermouth, striking a perfect balance between sweet and strong.
Mission Craft Cocktails – Espresso Martini
Because the party doesn’t end after sunset, Mission’s Espresso Martini features ethically sourced coffee and expertly blended vodka, providing a clean caffeine kick to keep the celebrations going.
Whether you’re toasting with a slow-sipping Old Fashioned or a perfectly chilled mocktail, these award-winning drinks are an easy way to elevate your Fourth of July spread. Stock the cooler, chill the glasses, and let the good times pour.