A simple syrup is an essential ingredient in non-alcoholic drinks like this Vineyard Sunrise and this Pomtini.

Simple syrup: Combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir to dissolve. Let cool. Add flavors if desired. Store in a mason jar; the syrup will keep for weeks in the fridge.

Raw honey syrup: Combine 1/2 cup of raw honey and 1/2 cup water in a small bowl or mason jar. Mix with a whisk until combined. Raw honey from the Island Bee Co. (islandbeecompanymv.com) is a good choice because it has a liquid consistency and is more easily combined, plus its mild flavor won’t overwhelm any drink to which it is added. Store in a mason jar in the fridge.

Here’s to January!

If you, like just about everyone else we know, are thinking of taking a winter dry spell, it’s time to think outside of the O’Doul’s bottle.