Not A Fan Of Prosecco? Here's What To Drink This NYE!

New Year’s Eve celebrations often come with one assumption: everyone wants a glass of prosecco at midnight. But what if bubbles aren’t your thing?

Whether you’re a student hosting a flat party or an apprentice heading to a house gathering, there are plenty of fun, affordable, and great-tasting alternatives that still feel special - no prosecco required.

Why Skip the Prosecco?

Prosecco can be sweet, fizzy, and a bit much for some people. And that’s okay. NYE is about celebrating, not forcing down a drink you don’t enjoy. Luckily, there are lots of alternatives that look festive, taste great, and won’t break your budget.

For the Non-Drinkers (and the Designated Drivers)

1. Alcohol-Free Sparkling Drinks

Look for alcohol-free sparkling rosé, sparkling apple, or even alcohol-free 'prosecco' alternatives. They give you all the NYE vibes without the alcohol.

Sainsbury's have a good selection, but we thought this Sparkling Freixenet looked like a good bet for under £5 - and don't forget to use your TOTUM Cashback to earn money back on your NYE treats!

2. Mocktails

Mocktails feel classy without the cost or the hangover. Easy ideas include:

• Virgin Mojito – lime, mint, sugar, soda water.

• Sparkling Berry Cooler – berry juice, lemonade, frozen berries.

• Non-alcoholic Negroni alternatives (many supermarkets now sell pre-mixed versions).

3. Fizzy Soft Drinks With Style

Serve fancy colas, lemonade, or elderflower tonic in a proper glass with ice and fruit. A bit of presentation makes a big difference!

If You Want Something Different (But Still Festive)

1. Cocktails You Can Make on a Budget

• Vodka Cranberry – simple, refreshing, and inexpensive.

• Gin and Elderflower – light and easy to drink.

• Rum and Ginger Beer – warming for winter nights!

2. Cider (Sparkling or Still)

A sparkling cider can be just as celebratory as prosecco. There are plenty of flavour options too, like berry, pear or spiced versions.

3. Craft Beers

If beer is more your style, consider something a little different for the occasion:

• Fruity IPAs

• Dessert stouts (think chocolate or caramel flavours)

• Citrus wheat beers

These pair well with party snacks and make a nice upgrade from a standard lager - and don't forget that TOTUM members can get 10 beers for just £10 from Beer52!

Wine Without the Fizz

1. Rosé

Crisp, colourful, and easy to drink. It’s a good option if you still want something pink without the bubbles.

2. Red or White Spritzers

Mix wine with lemonade or soda water for a lighter, less intense drink that also stretches your budget a bit further.

Low-Fuss, Low-Cost Options for Groups

1. Big-Batch Punch

Mix fruit juice with a spirit and a fizzy top-up like lemonade. Use frozen fruit instead of ice to keep it cool and flavourful.

2. Winter Sangria

Combine red wine, orange juice, chopped fruit, and a little cinnamon for a wintery version of a classic party drink.

Final Thought: Drink What You Enjoy

Forget the pressure to toast at midnight with prosecco. New Year’s Eve should be fun, relaxed, and filled with drinks you actually like, whether that’s a mocktail, cider, cocktail, or simply a soft drink.