Keeping up with #DryJanuary? Sip well with these 11 non-alcoholic wines and spirits
We’re almost two weeks into the New Year and let’s face it, we can all use a drink. But if you’re choosing to keep it sober this month (which, yassss -– so proud of you, bbi!), then by now, you’re probably itching to sip on something that is at least wine or cocktail adjacent. I did #DryJanuary last year, and it was truly a cute way to give my body a break from feeling groggy (read: hungover) after a night of enjoying one or a few glasses of wine. I won’t even hold you – as a writer who focuses on wine, I was quite nervous to stop drinking my beloved fermented grape juice for 30 whole days. But my curiosity wouldn’t keep me down for long, and I was able to find some satiable alternatives.
Before I get to the good stuff, a little history lesson: Dry January was officially established in 2013 by a non-profit organization called Alcohol Change UK. Their stance isn’t completely anti-alcohol, but they strive to encourage people to change the way in which they engage with it. And with the pandemic going on for almost two years, many of us are looking to alter our drinking habits since it began in March 2020 – which makes complete sense because healthy livers are important.
Now you’re probably wondering, what makes a wine or spirit non-alcoholic? In short, it’s all about the process. For those beverages that identify as “non-alcoholic wine”, they are made in the same way as their alcoholic counterparts – but the alcohol is just removed. Companies like FRE use juice that comes from wine grapes harvested from California Vineyards in order to embody the same aromas, flavors, and textures that would get from a glass of Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon.
For spirits, producers can use different ingredients like herbs and botanicals and may borrow techniques from a process like tea making in order to extract certain aromas and flavors that make the spirits floral and earthy.
Whether you are starting your Dry January journey today or are looking to take a longer break from cocktails and wine, here are a few alternatives that are sippable, mixable, and downright delicious.
SipC’s Sip Cozy Hemp-Infused Rosé
WINES
SipC – When I first learned about this brand, I was astonished that they were able to create both a non-alcoholic white wine and a rosé and package it in a can! Similarly, their hemp-infused Sip Cozy rosé made me feel just that - COZY. Made from grenache grapes, it is dealcoholized and infused with 40 mg of broad-spectrum hemp extract—promising real cozy vibes without the hangover in the morning.
Tost – Tart and floral, I remember drinking this while watching the Inauguration last year, and it reminded me of an effervescent and bodacious cider. Made of white tea, cranberry and ginger, this non-alcoholic bubbly gives very fall vibes but it is sippable all year round.
Gruvi – Not only does this ‘Secco come in a four-pack, but it’s also made from chardonnay grapes and you can make your own mocktails with it. And the best part? It’s only 50 calories per serving. Bottoms up, beloved.
Fre Brut – Yes, more bubbly! This was the last bottle I opened to celebrate my birthday last year, and it felt awesome to pop the cork on a bottle. Now, the taste is quite crisp, tart and refreshing – notes of pear, green apple and lemon come all the way through – but it is a tad bit sweet for my taste. But if you’re looking for a sparkling cider alternative, I would definitely give this a try.
Ariel Cabernet Sauvignon – I’m a CabSauv girl, so I had to try this for kicks and giggles. To my surprise, it wasn’t that bad. It did remind me of communion juice – you know, it tastes grapey, tart and dries your mouth out just a little bit? Worth a try if you want the essence of dry red wine.
Proteau Ludlow Red – I received this and was a little hesitant to try it at first, but it turned out to berry-forward, earthy, and very floral. I felt very healthy whenever I poured myself a taste of the Ludlow Red. While it is recommended to drink this alone, you can spice it up with your favorite clear alcohol (think gin, vodka, white rum) to make a botanical cocktail.
Stella Rosa – For those who are fans of the brand’s various flavors, you can now enjoy them without alcohol! In their classic flavors of Peach, Red, Rosé, and Black, I have to admit that it’s pretty cool to see Stella Rosa flex their muscles in this space.
Wilderton Lustre and Earthen
SPIRITS
Wilderton - Made in Oregon, this botanical spirit has two expressions: Earthen and Lustre – both are earthy with subtle notes of citrus, floral, and spice. I’ve made quite a few quick cocktails using both, and I love how the recipes recommend fresh elements like mint, orange juice, lime juice, and ginger to help bring out so many layers of flavor.
Seedlip – This brand’s three expressions (Herbal, Citrus, Aromatic) all give consumers the opportunity to choose their own adventure. If you want a margarita, Seedlip Grove 42 has notes of fresh orange, lemon, and ginger that pair well with agave syrup and fresh lime juice. If a highball is more of your jam, the Seedlip Garden 108 offers garden flavors like peas, rosemary, and thyme that make the cocktail fresh and herbal.
Ritual Zero Proof Tequila Alternative – I’m not a huge fan of tequila, but if you want the full essence of tequila without the calories or alcohol, then you have yourself a winner with this beverage. Ritual also offers zero-proof whiskey, gin, and rum, too.
Flora Hemp Spirits – I took a trip to the Cannabis Drinks Expo back in November, and I had the chance to try a lot of beverages infused with CBD and THC. This brand has two expressions: one with Delta-8 (THC) and one with CBD. Whether on the rocks or mixed with some tonic water or club soda, you’re going to feel quite lifted and relaxed after a few sips.
