1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup water. Simmer, uncovered, for 3 minutes. Add cranberries; bring mixture back to a simmer. Reduce heat; gently simmer for 5 to 6 minutes or until cranberries just begin to burst. Remove from heat; cool completely. 
2. Strain syrup into a large pitcher. Add about half of the cranberries to the pitcher; skewer remaining cranberries for garnish.  
3. Add cranberry juice, remaining 2 cups water, tequila alternative and lime juice; stir.  
4. Combine salt and lime zest in a shallow bowl. Dampen the rim of serving glasses with lime wedge. Dip each rim in lime zest mixture.  
5. Fill glasses halfway with ice. Top with mocktail. Garnish with skewered cranberries. If desired, grate frozen jalapeño over each drink.

Each serving contains: 140 calories, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 20 mg sodium, 39 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 33 g sugar, 0 g protein. Daily values: 0% vitamin D, 0% calcium, 0% iron, 2% potassium.