Let’s talk about wine — minus the alcohol.
Not long ago, non-alcoholic wine was far from a choice. “What's the point?” some would ask, followed by, "It's the same thing as a soda!". But as with all trends, it was just a matter of time.
Today, non-alcoholic wine is can be found in most bar menus, from chic sober spots to semi-fine dining restaurants catering to health-conscious millennials or wine-loving Gen X'ers looking for balance.
Whether you're cutting back, have an early start the next morning or just really curious, non-alcoholic wine is no longer a redundant argument, but rather a topic of interest.
So, what’s so good about non-alcoholic wine that's causing quite a stir in the wine world? Read on!
1. Self-care, Health-care.
The global shift toward prioritising our health has changed how we drink. People are paying closer attention to how alcohol affects their sleep, mood, productivity, and long-term health. Movements like Sober October and “mindful drinking” aren’t just trends - they’re reshaping our drinking culture.
But of course, it's not always a complete 180 degree turn for everyone. There's an increasing number of people who identify as "sober curious", which means they choose non-alcoholic options without giving up alcohol entirely. This is where non-alcoholic wine fits perfectly in. The same air of sophistication & celebration, minus the hangover.
2. It Tastes... Good!
Let’s be honest: early non-alcoholic wines were disappointing at best. Flat. Sweeteners to replace the body that alcohol gave. That missing depth and structure that's vital to wine, is what really turned wine drinkers off.
However, thanks to modern technology and craftsmanship, winemakers are now able to use methods like vacuum distillation and reverse osmosis to remove alcohol without stripping flavour. The result? Wine that actually tastes like well, wine. You can swirl it, sniff it, pair it with your favourite food, and boast about it, just like the real thing.
Brands like French Bloom and Plus & Minus are producing bottles that catch the attention of sommeliers. Some even undergo traditional fermentation and barrel aging before de-alcoholisation. This isn’t just fancy soda anymore - it’s the real deal that winemakers are taking seriously.
3. Restaurants & Bars Are Getting On Board
High-end restaurants, wine bars, and some airlines are adding premium non-alcoholic wines to their menus. It’s a nod to inclusivity and making sure everyone has something special to drink & cheers to, regardless of their views of alcohol.
Even bartenders are using non-alcoholic wines in creative mocktails, adding depth and acidity that soda or juice just can’t match!
Varieties & Alternatives
Let's talk more about the different varieties of non-alc wines available, which are far & few no more, and now come available in different varieties depending on how they were made.
The duh version of the list is wine that is bottled without... alcohol. This is catered to those who love the taste of wine, but don't want the alcohol. Nuff' said. Moving on.
Kombucha-Based
The funkier, more hip alternative is Kombucha-based sparkling wines - which usually come in colourful labels that you won't miss. Kombucha is used as a base and other ingredients, like fruits, herbs, and spices, are added to create complex, wine-like flavours. These beverages are often crafted using artisanal fermentation techniques and can be sparkling or still, with some brands focusing on natural, local ingredients!
As with all things funky & colourful, it's not for everyone, and attract usually the gut-health purists that love kombucha and other zesty, fruit-forward flavoured beverages. Think apple cider + your favourite fruit juice in a wine glass!
Sparkling Tea
Most non-alcoholic sparkling teas are made in several ways, but the most common involve either natural fermentation or carbonation of a concentrated tea blend. Unlike de-alcoholised wine, which is made by removing the alcohol from regular wine, non-alcoholic sparkling tea is crafted to be alcohol-free from the start.
The result is a stylish and aromatic beverage that appeals to both tea and wine lovers, as well as fancy mocktail fans who prefer less steps.
Some brands even combine carbonated tea infusions with de-alcoholised wine to capture a more complex flavour profile, so feel free to go crazy!
Final Sip: It’s Not Just a Phase
Non-alcoholic wine isn’t a passing trend - it’s part of a larger movement towards choice, wellness, and intentional living that's a driving aspect of the F&B industry.
Whether you're skipping alcohol for a night, curious on exploring new beverage options or just love getting on the latest trends, there's never been a better time to explore what non-alcoholic wines (or even craft beers) has to offer.
So go ahead, pop open a bottle, pour yourself a glass, and toast to the fact that yes, you can have it all!
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Need some recommendations before you start on your non-alc journey? Check out our range here!
Cheers to sipping! 🍷
P.S Have you tried a non-alcoholic wine that blew your mind? Feel free to slide into our DM's or tag us on Instagram!
