Above Board

Sober October Mocktails: 3 Zero-Proof Drinks Made With Sugar-Free Simple Syrup

Sober October is here. Maybe you’re taking the whole month off alcohol, maybe you’re just cutting back, or maybe you’re hosting friends who are. Either way, the evening drink doesn’t have to turn into plain soda water for thirty-one days.

A good mocktail needs the same thing a good cocktail needs, which is balance. Something bright, something tart and a touch of sweetness to pull it together. That last part is usually where the sugar sneaks in, because most mocktail recipes lean on regular simple syrup, which is just sugar dissolved in water.

That’s why we made Above Board Original Simple Syrup. It’s non-alcoholic, sweetened with plant-based monk fruit and allulose, gluten-free, and it has 0g sugar per serving. It does the same job in a glass that classic simple syrup does. So your Sober October drinks can taste like a real treat, without the sugar that usually comes with one.

Here are three zero-proof recipes from our 2026 recipe book to get you through the month.

Why Sober October is a good time to rethink your go-to drink

A month off alcohol is a nice reset, and plenty of people come out of it drinking a little differently than they did before. It’s also a good chance to find a couple of drinks you actually look forward to, instead of settling for whatever’s in the fridge.

The trick is to build a mocktail the way a bartender would. Fresh citrus, good soda water, plenty of ice, a garnish, and a syrup that balances everything out. Once you have those basics, you can make something great in about two minutes.

1. Citrus Blossom Fizz

This is the one we’d start with. It’s bright and a little sweet, and you don’t need any special equipment.

Ingredients

  • ¾ oz Above Board Original Simple Syrup
  • 3 oz fresh orange juice
  • ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 to 2 oz soda water

Method: Build everything but the soda directly in a Collins glass with ice. Pour it into a shaker tin once and back into the glass to mix. Top with soda and a little more ice. Garnish with a dried orange and lemon slice.

2. Cucumber Mint Elixir

Cool, clean and really refreshing. If you don’t have a juicer, blend a peeled cucumber with a splash of water and strain it through a fine strainer.

Ingredients

  • ¾ oz Above Board Original Simple Syrup
  • 1 ½ oz fresh cucumber juice
  • ¾ oz fresh lime juice
  • 8 to 10 fresh mint leaves
  • 2 to 3 oz soda water

Method: Muddle the mint and the syrup in a shaker tin. Add the cucumber juice and ice, then shake. Add the soda directly to the tin and double strain over fresh ice. Garnish with a mint bouquet and a dried lime slice.

3. Crimson Clarity

A bold, earthy spritz for when you want something a little more interesting. It takes a bit of prep, but the color alone is worth it.

Ingredients

  • ¾ oz Above Board Original Simple Syrup
  • ¾ oz beet, ginger and turmeric blend
  • ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2 to 3 oz soda water

Method: Combine everything but the soda in a shaker tin with ice and shake. Double strain over ice and top with soda water. Garnish with mint and a dried lemon slice.

For the beet, ginger and turmeric blend: peel 4 red beets, one thumb of ginger and one thumb of turmeric, and run them through a juicer (wear gloves). Strain, bottle and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For bars and restaurants
Guests taking October off still go out. A small zero-proof section gives them something better than a soda with lime, and it sets your team up for Dry January. Above Board Original Simple Syrup works anywhere your bartenders already use simple syrup. Request a tasting →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a sugar-free simple syrup for mocktails?

Yes. Above Board Original Simple Syrup is non-alcoholic, sweetened with monk fruit and allulose, and has 0g sugar per serving, so you can use it anywhere a mocktail recipe calls for regular simple syrup. It’s also gluten-free.

What can I drink during Sober October that isn’t just soda water?

A mocktail built like a real cocktail: fresh citrus, soda water, ice, a garnish and a syrup for balance. The Citrus Blossom Fizz above takes about two minutes and uses ingredients most people already have.

Where can I buy Above Board Original Simple Syrup?

You can order it online at drinkaboveboard.com, and it’s also available at select stores around San Diego. Above Board is a woman-owned company based in San Diego.

Find Above Board

Shop Original Simple Syrup →

If you make one of these this month, tag us @drinkaboveboard on Instagram. We’d love to see it.

We are changing cocktail culture one smarter sip at a time.

Sugar-Free Coffee Liqueur Cocktails for International Coffee Day

October 1 is International Coffee Day, a day to celebrate the drink that gets most of us through the morning. We’d like to make a case for celebrating it in the evening, too.

Coffee cocktails are having a moment, from espresso martinis to spiked café drinks. Most of them get their sweetness and body from a coffee liqueur, and traditional coffee liqueurs can be some of the sweetest bottles on the back bar.

Liqueur is the flavored, sweetened cousin of liquor, and it’s often where much of a cocktail’s sugar is hiding.

Above Board Coffee Liqueur is made with dark roast espresso from Dropkick Coffee here in San Diego. It’s crafted without sugar, sweetened with plant-based monk fruit and allulose, and has 0g sugar per serving. It’s also gluten-free.

The result is rich, real coffee flavor without the syrupy finish.

Here are three coffee cocktails from our 2026 recipe book, each with a different personality.

1. Ultimate Mexican Coffee

Warm, cozy and perfect for cooler evenings.

This hot coffee cocktail combines coffee, orange, tequila and a touch of chocolate spice, finished with a soft cream topping.

Ingredients

  • ¾ oz Above Board Orange Liqueur
  • ¾ oz Above Board Coffee Liqueur
  • ¾ oz reposado tequila
  • 2 dashes Fee’s Aztec Chocolate Bitters
  • 3 to 4 oz freshly brewed hot coffee

Method

Warm a glass mug with hot water, then pour the water out.

Add the Above Board Orange Liqueur, Above Board Coffee Liqueur, reposado tequila and bitters. Top with very hot coffee.

Gently finish with soft whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Soft Whip

Shake a couple of ounces of heavy cream in a shaker tin without ice until it becomes thick but still pourable.

2. Mexicali Blues

Bold, smooth and beautifully simple.

Coffee, orange and agave spirits come together in a dark, bittersweet cocktail with only three ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ oz Above Board Orange Liqueur
  • 1 ½ oz Above Board Coffee Liqueur
  • 1 oz tequila or mezcal

Method

Shake all ingredients with ice.

Double strain into a chilled coupe and express an orange peel over the top.

3. Pumpkin Spice Coffee Fizz

A fall cocktail for when you want to make something a little more special.

This seasonal recipe combines cozy pumpkin spice, cold brew and bourbon with a light, foamy finish.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ oz Above Board Coffee Liqueur
  • ¾ oz pumpkin spice-infused Above Board Original Simple Syrup
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • ¾ oz bold cold brew
  • 1 oz oat milk
  • 2 to 3 oz soda water
  • 1 egg white or vegan foamer

Method

Shake everything except the soda water without ice.

Add ice and shake again.

Pour 2 oz of soda water into a chilled glass, then double strain the cocktail over it.

Allow the foam to settle and top with a little more soda water.

Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Pumpkin Spice Syrup

Combine 500 ml Above Board Original Simple Syrup with 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice in a sealed bag.

Sous vide at 155°F for 3 hours, then strain and bottle.

The syrup keeps for up to 2 months.

For Bars and Cafés

Coffee cocktails continue to be a popular part of cocktail menus, from espresso martinis to after-dinner drinks.

Above Board Coffee Liqueur gives bars and restaurants a way to create familiar coffee cocktails without the sugar found in many traditional coffee liqueurs.

Request a tasting:
https://drinkaboveboard.com/wholesale/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cta&utm_campaign=international-coffee-day-2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a sugar-free alternative to Kahlúa?

Above Board Coffee Liqueur is crafted without sugar and has 0g sugar per serving, making it an option for cocktails that would traditionally call for a sweetened coffee liqueur.

What coffee is used in Above Board Coffee Liqueur?

Above Board Coffee Liqueur is made with dark roast espresso from Dropkick Coffee, roasted here in San Diego.

Find Above Board

Shop Above Board at drinkaboveboard.com, shipped through our licensed fulfillment partner, or find us at select stores, restaurants and bars.

Happy International Coffee Day.

Changing cocktail culture one smarter sip at a time.

The Espresso Martini Just Got a Zero Sugar Upgrade!

If you’ve ever searched for sugar free liquor, zero sugar spirits, or lower sugar alcohol, you’re probably trying to solve a bigger problem:

how do you enjoy a great cocktail without all the sugar that often comes with it?

Here’s what many people don’t realize.

The base spirit isn’t always the problem.

Vodka, tequila, whiskey, and other traditional distilled spirits may contain little to no sugar on their own. A significant amount of the sugar in cocktails can come from everything added afterward, especially liqueurs, syrups, sweetened mixers, and juices.

And that’s exactly why we created Above Board.

What About Sugar Free Liqueurs?

Most people probably aren’t typing “sugar free liqueur” into Google.

They’re searching for things like:

Is there sugar free liquor?

What alcohol has the least sugar?

How do I make a low sugar cocktail?

Can I make a sugar free Espresso Martini?

But if you love Margaritas, Espresso Martinis, Cosmos, Old Fashioneds, or other classic cocktails, the ingredient worth paying attention to is often the liqueur.

Traditional liqueurs are designed to add flavor and sweetness, which means they can also add a surprising amount of sugar to a cocktail.

Above Board was created to change that.

We make premium liqueurs crafted without sugar, giving bartenders and cocktail lovers the flavor and function of a traditional liqueur without the traditional sugar load.

And coffee cocktails are one of the best examples.

Why Coffee Cocktails Are Everywhere

The Espresso Martini has gone from a retro favorite to one of the most recognizable cocktails on menus today.

It works after dinner. It works at brunch. It works for happy hour. And it gives you that perfect combination of coffee, cocktail, and a little indulgence.

But a traditional Espresso Martini can also contain sugar from several different places, including coffee liqueur, simple syrup, flavored syrups, and other sweeteners.

So we asked a pretty simple question:

Why should an Espresso Martini need all that sugar to taste great?

It doesn’t.

Meet the Zero Sugar Coffee Liqueur

Above Board Coffee Liqueur is made with dark roast espresso from San Diego based Dropkick Coffee and sweetened with monk fruit and allulose instead of sugar.

The result is a zero sugar coffee liqueur with zero glycemic load, made on a gluten free neutral grain spirit base.

But removing the sugar was only half the assignment.

It still had to taste exceptional.

Above Board Coffee Liqueur went on to earn Double Gold in blind taste testing against traditional full sugar competitors.

Because making something better for you only matters if you still want to drink it.

How to Make a Zero Sugar Espresso Martini

We like to think of this as the Espresso Smartini, all the richness and ritual of an Espresso Martini without loading the cocktail with sugar.

Above Board Espresso Smartini

1 shot fresh espresso

1.5 oz Above Board Coffee Liqueur

1.5 oz vodka

Ice

Add everything to a shaker filled with ice.

Shake hard until cold and frothy, then strain into a coupe or martini glass.

That’s it.

No simple syrup needed.

Is an Espresso Martini Sugar Free?

It depends entirely on what goes into it.

Vodka itself may contribute little or no sugar, but traditional coffee liqueurs and simple syrups can quickly change the equation.

Using a zero sugar coffee liqueur like Above Board and skipping traditional simple syrup makes it possible to dramatically reduce the sugar in the cocktail without giving up the coffee flavor, body, or experience people expect from an Espresso Martini.

That distinction matters.

When people search for sugar free liquor or sugar free spirits for cocktails, they’re often looking in the right direction but asking the wrong question.

The better question may be:

What ingredients are adding sugar to my cocktail?

A Smarter Cocktail Menu Opportunity

That question matters for bars and restaurants, too.

More guests are paying attention to sugar, carbs, and what is actually going into their drinks. Yet the default better for you cocktail option is still often a vodka soda.

It doesn’t have to be.

Above Board gives beverage programs another option. Guests can enjoy the classic cocktails they already love, or discover something new, with dramatically less sugar.

A zero sugar Espresso Martini is an easy place to start.

The ingredients are familiar. The cocktail is already in demand. And the bar can offer something genuinely different without disrupting the rest of its beverage program.

Looking for Sugar Free Liquor for Cocktails? Start With What You’re Mixing Into It.

If you’re trying to drink less sugar, you don’t have to give up cocktails.

Look beyond the base spirit and pay attention to the ingredients traditionally used to build flavor and sweetness.

That’s where Above Board comes in.

Our mission is simple: create the premium liqueurs cocktails need, crafted without sugar, so people have more choices than giving up their favorite drink or ordering another vodka soda.

Starting with coffee.

Ready to Make Your Espresso Martini Smarter?

Explore Above Board Coffee Liqueur and make your own zero sugar Espresso Smartini at home, or ask for Above Board at your favorite bar or restaurant.

Because cutting the sugar shouldn’t mean cutting the cocktail.

The Next Generation of Liqueurs

We’re not here to reject that tradition. We’re here to carry it forward.

Cordials have been at the heart of the world’s favorite cocktails for generations. The Orange Curaçao in your Margarita. The coffee liqueur in your Espresso Martini. The cream liqueur that turns a simple pour into something indulgent. These bottles built cocktail culture, one classic recipe at a time.

Where Heritage Meets Innovation

Above Board is the next generation of liqueurs: honoring the cocktail tradition while reimagining what belongs in the bottle. Same craft. Same role behind the bar. Same cocktails you already love making and ordering. What’s different is what’s inside.

We make our entire line plant-based and zero sugar, sweetened with Monkfruit and Allulose instead of the syrupy, glycemic-spiking sugar that’s been the default for decades. Every bottle is also gluten-free, made with a gluten-free neutral grain spirit, and proudly woman-owned.

A Seat at the Table for Everyone

For a lot of people, that tradition has come with an asterisk. If you’re watching your sugar intake, whether you’re keto conscious, managing blood sugar, or just paying closer attention to what’s in your glass, the classic cocktail menu hasn’t had much room for you. The options were usually a vodka soda or sitting it out.

That’s exactly the gap Above Board closes. Because our liqueurs are sweetened with Monkfruit and Allulose instead of sugar, the same Margaritas, Espresso Martinis, and Smartinis that once came with a sugar trade-off are now part of the celebration for a lot more people. No one should have to choose between the cocktail they love and how they want to feel about what’s in it.

An Evolution, Not a Rejection

There’s a version of this story where we position ourselves against the category. We’re not telling that story. Liqueurs earned their place behind the bar. They built the cocktails people count on for celebrations, first dates, and Tuesday nights that needed a little lift.

What we’re doing is asking a simple question: now that we know more about what goes into a great pour, why should flavor and tradition come at the cost of how you feel the next day? Above Board exists to prove they don’t have to.

What This Means Behind the Bar

For bartenders and cocktail lovers, nothing about the ritual changes. Build the same Margarita, the same Espresso Martini, the same Smartini you’d always make. The tradition stays intact. What evolves is the ingredient doing the work in the glass, uncompromising on flavor and built for how people actually want to drink today.

That’s the next generation of liqueurs. Here’s to living Above Board.

Game Day, Reimagined: Better-For-You Cocktails for Football Season

Football season means one thing on repeat for months: people gathering around a screen, a spread of food, and a cooler full of drinks. It’s one of the biggest hosting stretches of the year, running from kickoff in September clear through the playoffs in February. And it’s exactly the kind of occasion where a low-sugar, zero-glycemic-load lineup earns its place on the table without anyone feeling like they’re settling for a “diet” version of game day.

That’s the gap Above Board fills. Our Coffee Liqueur, Cream, and Orange Liqueur are all sweetened with monk fruit and allulose, which means zero sugar and zero glycemic load without losing the richness or balance a good cocktail needs. For football season specifically, two pairings do the heavy lifting.

The Cold-Weather Anchor: Coffee Liqueur + Cream

As the season moves from early fall into late-season cold snaps and holiday-adjacent weekends, warm, comforting drinks become the default order at watch parties. A Coffee Liqueur and Cream combination hits that craving directly: think spiked coffee, White Russians, and espresso martinis for the pregame crowd that wants something with a little more depth than a hard seltzer.

This pairing works because it’s familiar. People already know and order these drinks. What they don’t expect is that a version exists without the sugar crash that usually follows a cream-and-coffee cocktail an hour into the fourth quarter.

The Secondary Play: Orange Liqueur as a Margarita, Not a Spritz

Orange Liqueur has a role in football season too, but the framing matters. This isn’t spritz season anymore, so we’re not leading with citrus-forward, effervescent drinks. Instead, Orange Liqueur shows up as the base for a proper margarita: a tailgate classic that holds its own next to chili, wings, and nachos. It’s a secondary option to the Coffee and Cream pairing, there for hosts who want to offer both a warm option and a colder, snack-friendly one.

Built for Hosting, Not Just Drinking

Game day is a batch-cocktail occasion. Nobody wants to play bartender through three quarters of football, and guests don’t want to wait on individually shaken drinks between plays. That’s why this menu is designed to scale.

Batch Game Day Espresso Martini

Serves 8, ready before kickoff. Scaled from the AB Espresso Martini recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Above Board Coffee Liqueur
  • 1/4 cup Above Board Original Simple Syrup
  • 1 cup espresso, cooled
  • 1 cup vanilla vodka
  • Ice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Combine the Coffee Liqueur, Simple Syrup, cooled espresso, and vanilla vodka in a large pitcher or beverage dispenser.
  2. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Shake individual portions over ice just before pouring, so each glass comes out properly chilled with a frothy top, then double strain into the glass.
  4. Keep the batch cold in a cooler or ice bath if it’s an outdoor tailgate.

This recipe holds for hours in the fridge, which means it can be made the night before and just shaken to order during the game.

Tailgate Batch Margarita

Serves 8, built to travel. Scaled from the ABM recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Above Board Orange Liqueur
  • 1/2 cup Above Board Original Simple Syrup
  • 3/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 1/2 cups tequila blanco
  • Salt, for rimming glasses

Instructions

  1. Combine the Orange Liqueur, Simple Syrup, lime juice, and tequila blanco in a large pitcher or jug.
  2. Refrigerate or keep on ice until serving.
  3. Rim glasses with salt and pour over fresh ice.
  4. Transports well in a sealed container for offsite tailgates.

Why This Matters for Bars and Venues

For B2B partners, football season is a volume opportunity that runs nearly six months. Bars, sports venues, and restaurant groups that build a game day menu around Coffee Liqueur, Cream, and Orange Liqueur have a way to offer a better-for-you option without alienating the traditionalists at the bar. The drinks look and taste like what people already order. They just don’t carry the same sugar load.

Above Board is built for exactly this kind of moment: familiar cocktails, reworked ingredients, zero compromise on the experience. Whether you’re hosting at home or building out a menu for the season, the lineup is ready before the first snap.

Guilt-Free 4th of July Hosting: Zero-Sugar Cocktails Your Guests Will Actually Talk About

Host the ultimate 4th of July party with zero-sugar cocktails made using Above Board Liqueurs. Enjoy better-for-you holiday cocktails that taste incredible and keep guests feeling great all weekend long.

The 4th of July is the unofficial championship of summer entertaining.

The grill is fired up. The playlist is dialed in. Friends and family are gathered in the backyard. Then someone mentions they’re cutting back on sugar, watching carbs, managing diabetes, or simply trying to feel good the next morning.

For years, health-conscious guests were often left choosing between water, a vodka soda, or skipping cocktails altogether.

That’s exactly why we created Above Board Liqueurs.

Our award-winning line of zero-sugar liqueurs makes it possible to serve premium cocktails that deliver full flavor without the sugar overload. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, pool party, or fireworks celebration, these cocktails help everyone join the fun.

Many hosts are also embracing lower-ABV cocktails for summer entertaining. Lighter drinks help guests pace themselves while still enjoying a premium cocktail experience throughout the day.

Why More Hosts Are Looking for Better-For-You Cocktails

Traditional orange liqueurs, coffee liqueurs, cocktail mixers, and flavored spirits often contain significant amounts of added sugar. A few drinks during a hot summer afternoon can quickly add up.

Above Board Liqueurs are crafted with plant-based sweeteners Monkfruit and Allulose, offering sweetness without sugar or glycemic impact. They’re also gluten-free and designed for people who want premium cocktails that better align with their wellness goals.

We’re proud to be a woman-owned company helping lead the Better For You beverage movement.

Now for the cocktails.

4 July 4th Cocktails Your Guests Will Remember

Stars & Stripes Spritz

Featuring Above Board Orange Liqueur

Light, citrus-forward, and incredibly refreshing, this may become the signature cocktail of your summer. As a naturally lower-ABV cocktail, it’s perfect for long afternoons by the pool, backyard barbecues, and celebrations that stretch from lunch through the fireworks. Guests can enjoy a flavorful cocktail experience without feeling weighed down.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Above Board Orange Liqueur
  • 3 oz sparkling water
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Ice
  • Orange slice
  • Fresh mint sprig

Instructions

Fill a wine glass with ice. Add Orange Liqueur and lemon juice. Top with sparkling water and stir gently. Garnish with orange and mint.

Party Tip: Prepare the Orange Liqueur and lemon juice mixture ahead of time and add sparkling water as guests are served.

Midnight Fireworks Cold Brew Punch

Featuring Above Board Coffee Liqueur

Rich, smooth, and perfect as the sun starts to set.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Above Board Coffee Liqueur
  • 2 oz unsweetened cold brew concentrate
  • 1 oz oat milk
  • Ice
  • Coffee beans for garnish

Instructions

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass.

Party Tip: Create a self-serve cold brew station by batching the Coffee Liqueur and cold brew together in advance.

Firecracker Cream Cocktail

Featuring Above Board Cream Liqueur

Silky and indulgent with notes of coffee, whiskey, and vanilla. This festive sipper is equally at home as an after-dinner cocktail or a liquid dessert while waiting for the fireworks to begin.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Above Board Cream Liqueur
  • 1 oz vodka (optional)
  • Ice
  • Fresh raspberries

Instructions

Pour over ice and stir gently until chilled. Garnish with raspberries for a festive red-and-white presentation.

Unlike many cream liqueurs, Above Board Cream contains just over 1 gram of sugar per ounce and is crafted to provide a lighter, more balanced cocktail experience.

Backyard Lemonade Bar

Featuring Above Board Zero Sugar Simple Syrup

The ultimate crowd-pleaser for summer entertaining.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz Above Board Zero Sugar Simple Syrup
  • 2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 4 oz sparkling water
  • Optional spirit of choice
  • Ice
  • Lemon wheel

Instructions

Combine syrup, lemon juice, and optional spirit over ice. Top with water and stir.

Hosting Upgrade: Set up a lemonade bar and allow guests to customize their drinks with different spirits and garnishes.

Simple Hosting Tips for a Better 4th of July Party

Pre-Batch Your Cocktails

Prepare cocktail bases the night before so you’re spending time with guests instead of playing bartender.

Create a Cocktail Menu

Simple tabletop signs help guests understand what they’re drinking and naturally create conversation. Be sure to note that your cocktails are crafted with zero-sugar ingredients and plant-based sweeteners. Guests are always intrigued.

Include Non-Alcoholic Options

The Backyard Lemonade and Stars & Stripes Spritz work beautifully as alcohol-free options, making your gathering more inclusive.

Think Beyond the Celebration

One of the biggest advantages of choosing lower-sugar cocktails is how guests feel afterward. Great parties should create memories, not regrets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Above Board Liqueurs really zero sugar?

Our Orange Liqueur, Coffee Liqueur, and Zero Sugar Simple Syrup are crafted using plant-based sweeteners Monkfruit and Allulose. Our Cream Liqueur contains just over 1 gram of sugar per ounce due to the cream component.

Are Above Board products gluten-free?

Yes. Above Board Liqueurs are crafted using a gluten-free neutral grain spirit.

Can these cocktails be made non-alcoholic?

Absolutely. The Backyard Lemonade and Stars & Stripes Spritz can easily be enjoyed without additional spirits, making them ideal for guests who choose not to drink alcohol.

Who enjoys Above Board Liqueurs?

Above Board appeals to a wide range of health-conscious consumers, including those watching their sugar intake, following low-carb lifestyles, managing diabetes, prioritizing wellness goals, or simply looking for a better cocktail experience.

Stock Up Before the Fireworks

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, pool party, or neighborhood gathering, Above Board makes it easy to serve cocktails that everyone can feel good about.

Zero sugar. Plant-based sweeteners. Gluten-free. Full flavor.

You Don’t Have to Change How You Drink…. Just What You Pour.

Visit DrinkAboveBoard.com to explore recipes, cocktail inspiration, and our complete collection of Better For You beverage products.

Have a favorite Above Board cocktail? Tag us on Instagram @drinkaboveboard. We’d love to see what you’re serving this 4th of July.

Summer Cocktails & Mocktails Reimagined: How Above Board Is Transforming the Drinks People Love

Summer officially begins on June 20th, and with it comes everything we love about the season: sunshine, patios, pool days, beach gatherings, backyard barbecues, weddings, events, and, of course, great drinks.

Every summer has its signature pours. This year, the standouts are clear.

Margaritas are hot. Espresso martinis are still everywhere. Spritzes continue to dominate warm-weather menus. And mocktails are no longer an afterthought. They have become one of the most exciting categories in beverage culture.

What ties all of these together?

Consumers want better options.

They still want the ritual, the flavor, the celebration, and the experience. They just want ingredients that fit the way they live today.

That is where Above Board comes in.

The Drinks Are Not Changing. The Ingredients Are.

For decades, traditional liqueurs and syrups have played an important role in building some of the world’s most loved cocktails. But many of those ingredients come with a heavy sugar load.

At Above Board, we saw an opportunity to create something different.

Our line of zero sugar liqueurs and syrup is made with plant-based sweeteners, giving people a better way to enjoy the drinks they already love without sacrificing flavor, quality, or the cocktail experience.

You don’t have to change how you drink. Just what you pour.

Margaritas Are Having Their Summer Moment

Few cocktails say summer quite like a margarita.

Whether it is poolside, beachside, tableside, or at a backyard party, the margarita remains one of the most requested cocktails of the season.

Above Board Orange Liqueur brings bright citrus flavor from Valencia orange peel, making it a natural fit for margaritas, tequila cocktails, spritzes, and countless warm-weather drinks.

For restaurants and bars, it opens the door to premium no/low sugar cocktail options guests are actively asking for.

For consumers, it means enjoying a summer classic with better ingredients.

Espresso Martinis Are Still Everywhere

The espresso martini has moved far beyond trend status. It is now a modern staple.

From dinner reservations to weddings, events, rooftop bars, and late-night celebrations, espresso martinis continue to be one of the most in-demand cocktails.

Above Board Coffee Liqueur is made with Westrock dark roast espresso, creating a bold coffee profile that works beautifully in espresso martinis, coffee cocktails, and after-dinner drinks.

It delivers the indulgence people want, with a zero sugar approach that fits today’s Better For You beverage movement.

Spritz Season Starts Now

Spritzes are made for summer.

Light, refreshing, colorful, and easy to enjoy, spritz-style cocktails continue to show up everywhere from resorts and patios to home entertaining.

Above Board Orange Liqueur pairs beautifully with sparkling wine, soda water, prosecco, tequila, vodka, gin, rum, and more.

The result is a bright, elevated drink that feels perfect for warm days, long evenings, and sunny celebrations.

Summer Mocktails Deserve Better, Too

One of the biggest shifts in beverage culture is the rise of mocktails.

Consumers are looking for non-alcoholic drinks that feel intentional, beautiful, and satisfying, not like a watered-down substitute.

Above Board Original Syrup was created for exactly that.

Made with plant-based sweeteners and zero sugar, it brings balance and sweetness to mocktails without relying on traditional simple syrup, cane sugar, or agave nectar.

It is perfect for refreshing summer drinks like cucumber mint coolers, citrus fizz mocktails, sparkling lemonades, berry spritzes, iced tea refreshers, and alcohol-free cocktails that still feel elevated.

For restaurants, bars, caterers, mobile bars, resorts, and event venues, mocktails are becoming a real revenue opportunity.

For consumers, they offer a better choice for pool days, family gatherings, designated drivers, sober-curious guests, and anyone who wants something special without alcohol.

This summer, Above Board is not just transforming cocktails.

We are transforming the entire drink experience.

Built For The Spirits People Already Love

One of the best things about Above Board is how easily it works with the bottles people already have behind the bar or on the home bar cart.

Our products pair beautifully with:

  • Tequila
  • Vodka
  • Gin
  • Rum
  • Whiskey
  • Bourbon
  • Mezcal
  • Sparkling wine
  • Cold brew
  • Soda water
  • Fresh citrus

Above Board does not complicate cocktail making. It expands what is possible.

For hospitality accounts, that means creating premium drink options without overhauling the entire bar program.

For home cocktail lovers, it means making better drinks with ingredients that are easy to use and easy to love.

Leading The Charge In The Better For You Beverage Movement

The skinny margarita movement showed the industry that people wanted lower-sugar cocktail options.

Now, that demand has grown far beyond one drink.

Today’s consumers are looking for better ingredients across the entire menu, including cocktails, mocktails, spritzes, coffee drinks, and everything in between.

Above Board is proud to be leading the charge in the Better For You beverage movement with zero sugar liqueurs and syrup made for the way people drink today.

Summer Starts Now

As patios fill up, events kick off, vacations begin, and summer celebrations take shape, one thing is clear:

The drinks people love are not going anywhere.

They are simply evolving.

Margaritas. Espresso martinis. Spritzes. Mocktails.

This summer is about better ingredients, better choices, and better drinks.

Above Board is here to help you pour all of it.

You don’t have to change how you drink. Just what you pour.

National Bourbon Day Just Got an Upgrade! June 14th

National Bourbon Day Cocktails – Low and No Sugar Bourbon Drinks by Above Board Liqueurs

Celebrate National Bourbon Day with rich, premium zero sugar bourbon cocktails featuring Above Board Coffee and Cream Liqueurs.

Bourbon Lovers Are Evolving – And So Are Their Cocktails

Bourbon culture has always been rooted in craftsmanship, depth, and experience.

From smoked old fashioneds to espresso-forward nightcaps, bourbon drinkers appreciate cocktails that feel elevated and intentional. But for many health-conscious consumers, there’s been one major frustration:

Most bourbon cocktails are loaded with sugar.

For years, the only “better-for-you” option at many bars has been a neat. But bourbon lovers want more than that. They want rich flavor, premium ingredients, and cocktails that still feel indulgent.

That’s exactly why Above Board Liqueurs was created.

At Above Board, we’re helping redefine modern cocktail culture with plant-based zero sugar liqueurs made using Monkfruit and Allulose, opening the door to an entirely new category of premium no/low sugar cocktails.

You don’t have to change how you drink – just what you pour.

The Better-For-You Cocktail Movement Is Growing

Today’s consumers are paying closer attention to what’s in their glass.

People are actively looking for:
• lower sugar cocktails
• gluten-free options
• cleaner ingredients
• premium experiences that align with wellness goals

At the same time, they still want cocktails that feel:
• indulgent
• sophisticated
• social
• flavorful

That’s where Above Board Liqueurs is leading the charge in the Better For You beverage movement.

Rather than removing enjoyment from the cocktail experience, we’re helping bars, restaurants, and consumers create cocktails that feel luxurious without excessive sugar.

Why Bourbon Pairs Perfectly With Above Board

Bourbon naturally carries notes of:
• vanilla
• oak
• caramel
• espresso
• spice

That makes it an ideal pairing with:

• Above Board Coffee Liqueur

• Above Board Cream Liqueur

• Above Board Sugar-Free Simple Syrup

Together, they create cocktails that are bold, smooth, and indulgent while remaining aligned with modern wellness-focused lifestyles.

This combination is especially appealing for:
• steakhouses
• whiskey bars
• golf clubs
• hotel lounges
• upscale restaurants
• modern speakeasies

Above Board Liqueurs also opens an untapped revenue stream for premium no/low sugar cocktails while helping accounts move stale base spirits that may be bogging down operations.

Bourbon Drinkers Want Better Options

Health-conscious consumers are no longer satisfied with limited choices.

They want:
• espresso cocktails
• after-dinner drinks
• rich bourbon experiences
• elevated sipping cocktails
• modern whiskey classics

And increasingly, they’re asking for options with less sugar.

Above Board helps bars and restaurants meet that demand without overcomplicating operations.

Most cocktails require only:
• a base spirit
• Above Board Liqueurs
• simple fresh ingredients

That simplicity matters in busy hospitality environments.

Featured National Bourbon Day Cocktails

A bold combination of bourbon and Above Board Coffee Liqueur that delivers a rich espresso-forward cocktail experience without the sugar overload.

Sugar-Free Revolver

A modern bourbon cocktail featuring Above Board Coffee Liqueur and orange bitters.

Smooth, sophisticated, and ideal for whiskey lovers looking for something elevated yet approachable.

Revolver

Creamy Bourbon Nightcap

Bourbon paired with Above Board Cream Liqueur creates a velvety cocktail with notes of coffee, vanilla, and whiskey.

An ideal dessert cocktail or evening sipper.

Creamy Bourbon Chai

Why National Bourbon Day Matters

National Bourbon Day arrives at the perfect time of year:
• summer entertaining season
• Father’s Day celebrations
• BBQ gatherings
• rooftop cocktail season
• whiskey tastings

It’s the perfect opportunity for bars, restaurants, and consumers to rethink what bourbon cocktails can become.

The future of cocktails isn’t about restriction.

It’s about smarter indulgence.

And Above Board Liqueurs is proud to be helping lead that evolution.

Ready to Upgrade Bourbon Cocktails?

Whether you’re crafting cocktails at home or looking to introduce premium no/low sugar options behind the bar, Above Board Liqueurs makes it easy to elevate the bourbon experience.

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About Above Board Liqueurs

Founded in Southern California by Nicole and Brent Slone, Above Board Liqueurs was created to give health-conscious consumers elevated cocktail options without excessive sugar.

Above Board’s plant-based zero sugar liqueurs are made using Monkfruit and Allulose and are crafted to help restaurants, bars, resorts, and consumers create premium no/low sugar cocktails with ease.

Current offerings include:
• Above Board Orange Liqueur
• Above Board Coffee Liqueur
• Above Board Cream Liqueur
• Above Board Sugar-Free Simple Syrup

Contact Above Board

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Why Modern Brides Are Rethinking Wedding Cocktails

Wedding season is evolving.

Today’s couples are paying attention to every detail of the guest experience, from curated welcome bags and custom playlists to signature cocktails that feel elevated, intentional, and unforgettable.

But one part of weddings is quietly undergoing a major transformation:

The bar.

For years, guests looking for lighter or more mindful cocktail options were often limited to vodka sodas, light beer, or skipping cocktails altogether.

Now, modern couples are asking a different question:

Why can’t cocktails feel indulgent and intentional at the same time?

That’s exactly where Above Board Liqueurs enters the conversation.

As consumers become increasingly focused on wellness, lower sugar lifestyles, keto friendly options, diabetic friendly choices, and better ingredients, wedding cocktail culture is evolving right alongside them.

People still want to celebrate.

They still want beautiful cocktails.

They still want the classic flavors they know and love.

They simply want better options.

Cocktails Guests Thought Were Off Limits Are Back Again

One of the biggest shifts happening in hospitality right now is the demand for cocktails that feel inclusive.

For many guests, traditional cocktails have felt off limits for years because of hidden sugars, overly sweet mixers, or ingredients that simply didn’t align with their lifestyle goals.

Above Board Liqueurs was created to help change that.

Our zero sugar liqueurs are made with plant based sweeteners, are gluten free, and designed to bring traditional cocktail experiences back to the table in a more modern way.

Because nobody wants to feel stuck drinking only vodka sodas at a beautiful wedding.

Traditional flavors we all know and love are finally available again with Above Board Liqueurs.

Signature Cocktails Are Becoming Part of the Wedding Experience

Modern weddings are becoming more personal, more intentional, and more experience driven than ever before.

And signature cocktails are now a huge part of that experience.

Couples want guests to remember how the event felt.

That includes what was served at the bar.

Signature cocktails help create:
• visual moments
• conversation starters
• elevated guest experiences
• Instagram worthy celebrations
• memorable cocktail hours
• personal touches throughout the event

Above Board Liqueurs helps couples and venues create cocktails that feel celebratory without feeling overdone.

Imagine:
• a blush colored skinny margarita during cocktail hour
• Espresso Smartinis during dancing and dessert
• creamy after dinner cocktails around the firepit
• elegant spritzes during bridal showers
• custom no/low sugar cocktail menus for wellness conscious guests

These are the moments guests remember long after the wedding ends.

Why Venues, Caterers, and Mobile Bars Are Paying Attention

Consumer demand drives hospitality trends.

And today’s guests are asking for more thoughtful beverage options.

That creates a major opportunity for:
• wedding venues
• caterers
• hotels and resorts
• country clubs
• mobile bars
• bridal event planners

Above Board Liqueurs helps businesses open an untapped revenue stream for premium no/low sugar cocktails while keeping implementation simple for high volume events.

The cocktails are approachable, recognizable, and easy to integrate into existing bar programs.

That matters tremendously during weddings where speed, consistency, and guest experience are everything.

Better Ingredients. Better Choices. Better Together.

At Above Board Liqueurs, we believe celebration should feel inclusive.

Our products are crafted with plant based sweeteners and designed for consumers looking for:
• keto friendly cocktails
• diabetic friendly options
• gluten free choices
• modern cocktail alternatives
• elevated flavors without excessive sugar

Because wellness focused consumers deserve more than basic drink options.

And weddings deserve cocktails that feel just as special as the people celebrating.

Wedding Cocktail Ideas Using Above Board Liqueurs

Signature Skinny Margarita

Made with Above Board Orange Liqueur, tequila blanco, fresh lime juice, and Above Board Sugar Free Simple Syrup.

Espresso Smartini

Featuring Above Board Coffee Liqueur for a rich, elevated cocktail perfect for dancing and dessert.

Creamy Celebration Cocktail

Using Above Board Cream Liqueur for indulgent after dinner cocktails guests will rave about.

Bridal Shower Citrus Spritz

A lighter sparkling cocktail featuring Above Board Orange Liqueur and fresh citrus.

No/Low Sugar Cocktail Menus

Standalone cocktail menus designed specifically for wellness conscious guests and modern celebrations.

The Future of Wedding Cocktails

The future of weddings is intentional.

Couples are becoming more thoughtful about every part of the guest experience, including what’s being poured at the bar.

The future of wedding cocktails is:
• elevated
• wellness conscious
• visually driven
• experience focused
• inclusive
• modern

Above Board Liqueurs is proud to help redefine what celebration can look like.

Because you don’t have to change how you drink — just what you pour.

Visit drinkaboveboard.com

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