Hello January. Crisp air, muddy dog walks, and that feeling of starting fresh. Dry January is here, and at The Bensons’ Table, we are keeping things bright, fun, and full of flavour.
If I am doing Dry January, I want drinks that still feel like a treat. Not dull, but genuinely delicious and a little bit special.
Why Do Dry January?
For me, Dry January is not about rules or cutting back for the sake of it. It is a chance to reset after December, enjoy slower evenings, and still have something lovely to pour at the end of the day. I want a drink that feels grown up, looks good in a glass, and brings a bit of lift to the moment.
That is where a good alcohol free drink really matters.
From the Benson's Table - My Raspberry Botanical Spritz
This is my current Dry January favourite and the drink I keep making at home.
The Raspberry Botanical Spritz pairs Three Spirit botanical elixir with Bensons Sparkling Raspberry and Apple. It is aromatic, lightly fruity, and easy to enjoy. It has that cocktail feeling without the alcohol, which makes it perfect for cosy catch-ups, slow evenings, or when you just fancy something a bit special.
Here’s how I make it
1. Start with the botanicals
Pour a measure of Three Spirit botanical elixir into a chilled glass. Herbal, fragrant, and full of character.
2. Add the Bensons
Top generously with Bensons Sparkling Raspberry and Apple for a fresh raspberry lift and gentle apple fizz.
3. Finish with freshness
Add ice and a few fresh raspberries for colour.
Light, vibrant, and full of flavour, this is Dry January done right. A glass that feels like a treat, without breaking the reset.
A Few Other Favourites
If you like the Raspberry Botanical Spritz, there are a few other Bensons Sparkling drinks I keep coming back to through January. I tend to switch them up depending on the day and what I am in the mood for.
- Cloudy Apple is clean, fresh, and very easy to drink. It is the one I reach for when I want something simple and refreshing.
- Blackcurrant and Apple is deeper and richer, with a proper grown up fruitiness
- Rhubarb and Apple has a sharper edge and feels a little different, perfect when you fancy something with more bite.
They all work just as well on their own as they do mixed with botanicals, and they make Dry January feel relaxed and enjoyable, not restrictive.
Keeping January Easy
Dry January does not have to feel like you’re missing out. It can be about slowing down, trying something new, and enjoying good drinks without overthinking it.
For me, it is less about what you are not having, and more about finding things you genuinely enjoy. Muddy walks, relaxed evenings, good company, and a glass that still feels like a moment.