I Don't Drink Zero-Proof Spirits, But I Believe All Bars Should Stock Them

As someone who has been alcohol-free for nearly five years, zero-proof spirits are not my first choice when it comes to what I drink at home. Now, if I’m at an event that features a cocktail made with an alcohol-free spirit, like Ritual Zero Proof, MONDAY, or Cut Above, I will likely try it, but that’s mostly because I’m so excited it’s even there in the first place. 

I’m not sure if I don’t favor them because of the smell/taste being linked to unpleasant feelings or because I never truly enjoyed the taste of booze, despite my heavy consumption pre-sobriety. I do consider myself lucky not to be so triggered by these products that I can’t enjoy them once in a while, because I can. I’ve spoken to women in my Milwaukee community who completely opt out of zero-proof spirits. All this to say, even though they aren’t “my thing,” I still believe every bar should carry booze alternatives.

Before I quit drinking, I never drank for the “craft” experience, I drank to end up void of all feeling, every time. Now that I’m living alcohol-free, I choose my drinks based on flavor and function. Mindful drinkers, those who are intentional about when they choose to drink, also tend to focus on flavor and function. 

Some people have zero-proof spirits almost nightly - they find pleasure in the cocktail experience in a bar or at home. But hesitation toward traditional alcohol flavor profiles isn’t uncommon among sober folks. I don’t find it surprising that when I talk to zero-proof spirit brand founders and marketers, they tell me a majority of their customers are flex drinking (consuming both alcoholic and NA products).

You might find that fact surprising, but with Gen Z drinking 20% less than Millennials, the number of people calling NA beverages “lame” is not only decreasing, but the market is attracting new customers (even some former naysayers).

Our options go beyond the Shirley Temple now, and customers have grown to have higher beverage expectations.

Just like providing vegan or vegetarian options, this is not a crowd you want to miss out on serving. I believe when people are given a choice, variety, inclusive options… it’s easier to drink less. 

An enticing non-alcoholic menu makes mindful drinking less intimidating and more fun.

I grew up and went to college in towns where binge drinking and shaming people who didn’t drink was the standard, and that’s just no way to live. In my opinion, most people with any sense have come to accept in 2023 that there’s nothing wrong with not drinking alcohol.

Now, let’s talk about why zero-proof spirits should be in every bar.

If for no other reason, bar owners should stock a variety of non-alcoholic options for the sake of their wallets.

Did you know 34% of Americans said they were trying to drink less in 2023? Those who are drinking less are focused on moderation, not abstinence, and may order one alcoholic drink and one non-alcoholic. 

Plus, more and more people are now checking for AF/NA menus before they reserve a table. Consider this a reminder that yes, you should post your NA beverage menu online. Once someone has a few standout mocktails, they won’t want to return to water and soda. 

For bar owners who value genuine hospitality and work to ensure visitors feel welcomed and appreciated, why wouldn’t this also apply to your non-drinking patrons? I can understand the bar industry not expecting “sober” folks to walk through their doors, but I could name 50 reasons right now why someone might not be drinking outside of sobriety.

Remember when I said earlier that non-alcoholic spirit brands have huge percentages of alcohol-consuming customers? Not everyone who “isn’t drinking tonight” is practicing sobriety. An inclusive NA beverage menu will include more than coffee, soda, water, and lemonade. It should be crafted with as much intention and care as all other sections of the menu. Want to see examples of non-alcoholic menus I love? Check out my Milwaukee Beverage Blog.

So, What Can We Do?

Ask (politely) for what we want!

Tell your favorite bars/restaurants what you want to see. Maybe that’s an alcohol-free cocktail menu, non-alcoholic wine, kombucha, more seltzers, etc. If no one ever asks, we can’t solely rely on bar owners to read the news about the Sober-Curious Movement. When you speak up to a bar owner, you’re actually speaking for yourself and everyone else who doesn’t have the confidence or heart to ask.

Also - share the bars who are doing it right! If you have an excellent drink somewhere, let them know you appreciate it. To go the extra mile, give them a shoutout on social media to create more awareness.

To learn more about how a solid NA menu promotes inclusivity and good vibes, read my very first blog post.