Reduce your alcohol intake in October – make your next drink a mocktail!

“Alcohol is a known risk factor in breast cancer – more than one drink a day can increase your risk,” says Evangelia Henderson, chief executive of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. “Mocktails are a delicious alternative this month.”

Darren, who is the NZ Bacardi Legacy Global Cocktail Champion, tackled the challenge with enthusiasm and quickly began looking into foods that can ease the side effects of breast cancer treatment. “The reason I chose to help out was not only that it was for a great cause, but it was also a challenge. To create some delicious mocktails using ingredients associated with healthy living, while also creating an experience for people who’ve suffered from breast cancer, was something I just couldn't turn down,” says Darren.

His recipes use New Zealand-made SHOTT real fruit syrups and include fresh extras such as fresh lemon juice, coconut, ginger and even oats. Make them at home, or ask for them at top cocktail bar, Mea Culpa - all three will be available here throughout the month of October.

“In New Zealand, eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day,” says Mrs Henderson. “Of these eight, one will be under the age of 45. It’s really important that young women reduce their alcohol consumption in order to reduce their lifetime risk.

“Men can also get breast cancer; 25 are diagnosed in New Zealand every year. Our vision is zero deaths from breast cancer and prevention is an essential part of this.

“Our advice is to eat healthily, exercise regularly and limit your alcohol consumption,” she says.

"Ginger is the New Black"

60mLs - Barley water

20mLs - SHOTT Lemon, Ginger & Honey

15mLs - Lemon juice

Manuka smoke spray

Spray a rocks glass with Manuka smoke. Shake up all ingredients & strain over ice. Garnish with lemon twist & crystallised ginger.

"Coco-berry Cooler"

90mLs - Coconut water

20mLs - SHOTT Strawberry

20mLs - Lemon juice

10mLs - Agave

Shake up all ingredients & strain into a chilled collins glass. Garnish with strawberry & coconut shavings.

"Berry Appeeling Tea"

60mLs - Oat milk

30mLs - SHOTT Blueberry & Green Tea

15mLs - SHOTT Banana

10mLs - Honey syrup

Shake up all ingredients & strain into a chilled glass tea cup. Garnish with candied oats.