Thirsty Thursday in Dry January (and Why I’m Not Missing the Booze One Bit)
Dry January has a reputation for being… well, dry. Beige. A bit joyless. But this year, Thirsty Thursday has had a glow-up in our house - and it’s all thanks to a very timely gift: a SodaStream.
Lucky me. Just as I’d committed to a slightly less indulgent January, along came a sleek, modern fizz-making machine that makes even plain tap water feel like a treat. A far cry from the old cream-and-brown SodaStream we had back in the 80s (remember when everything came in those hues?). That one lived on the kitchen counter like a small, humming appliance from Tomorrow’s World. This one? Minimal, chic and frankly a bit smug about it.
The kids are obsessed too. There’s now a daily ritual of making the water “extra bubbly” before dinnertime - every time - with great ceremony and very serious level-pulling. Hydration, but make it exciting.
And for the grown-ups? SodaStream has been quietly revolutionising the non-alcoholic drinks game with recipes that feel indulgent, grown-up and properly special - perfect whether you’re doing a dry month, a dry weekend or just fancy spicing up a midweek evening without the wine fog.
Here are a few standouts that have been on heavy rotation.
Winter Cobbler
If winter had a signature drink, this would be it.
A lively, aromatic number with a warming ginger kick, this cobbler feels far more effortful than it actually is. SodaStream Ginger Ale brings the sparkle and spice, lifting your alcohol-free botanical spirit of choice, while a dash of Botivo adds depth and a whisper of herbs. Built tall over ice, it’s bright, fragrant and dangerously drinkable.
Why I love it: It scratches that “proper drink” itch - the garnish, the aroma, the ceremony - without any of the next-day regrets.
Top tip: An orange wheel and a sprig of rosemary make it feel restaurant-level fancy with minimal effort.
Mountain Paloma
Pink, punchy and very now.
The Paloma is everywhere at the moment, and this alcohol-free version absolutely holds its own. Ruby red grapefruit juice (no bits - unless chewing your cocktails is your thing), Everleaf Mountain for that alpine, botanical depth, and SodaStream Cloudy Lemonade for a sharp, refreshing finish.
Why I love it: It’s fresh, fashionable and makes you feel like you should be wearing sunglasses indoors. Even in January.
Feeling bold? Add a couple of drops of Tabasco or go all out with a spicy salt rim for a kick that wakes up your tastebuds.
Cloud Nine
This one’s a proper party-starter.
Light, zesty and full of natural pep thanks to Three Spirit Livener and its energising botanicals - think guayusa, schisandra and green tea for a lively lift without going anywhere near alcohol. SodaStream sparkling water keeps things crisp, while elderflower cordial adds a soft floral wink.
Why I love it: It gives you that “I’m out-out” feeling, even if you’re actually in your slippers by 8pm.
My Everyday Favourite
While I’m loving experimenting with botanicals and garnishes, I’m also a big fan of keeping things simple. Robinsons Lime & Mint Fruit Cordial topped up with SodaStream sparkling water genuinely tastes like a Mojito - fresh, zingy and endlessly drinkable. It’s become my go-to when I want something quick that still feels like a treat.
So here’s to Thirsty Thursday in Dry January: fizz over fog, flavour over filler and drinks that feel celebratory without the hangover. Whether you’re fully committed to the month or just cutting back a little, turns out you don’t need alcohol to make it feel like a proper occasion. Cheers to that 🥂 (with bubbles, obviously).
