What is the deal with non-alcoholic wines and sparkling wines?

In recent years, there has been a clear change in the drinking habits of young adults. While alcohol has long been an integral part of celebrations, social gatherings and lifestyle for many, a new generation is now coming along that enjoys its drinks more consciously and is increasingly turning to non-alcoholic alternatives. Non-alcoholic wines, sparkling wines and teas in particular are experiencing a boom - and for good reasons.
Why alcohol-free is becoming increasingly popular
There are many reasons for the hype: health awareness, the desire for a clear head and a growing interest in high-quality enjoyment all play a major role. More and more people want to avoid alcohol without foregoing the taste and experience of a fine tipple. This is exactly where non-alcoholic wines and sparkling wines come in: they offer the variety of aromas of classic wines - just without the intoxication the next day.
How are non-alcoholic wines and sparkling wines made?
Many people think that non-alcoholic wine is simply grape juice - but that is far from the truth! In fact, non-alcoholic wine is produced in the same way as classic wine. The crucial difference lies in the dealcoholization: the alcohol is removed from the finished wine using various processes - such as vacuum distillation or reverse osmosis. The result? A complex, multifaceted drink with a full wine aroma, but a maximum of 0.5% alcohol.
It works similarly with non-alcoholic sparkling wine: high-quality sparkling wine is first produced traditionally and then dealcoholized. This preserves the fine bubbles and the sparkling taste.
Tea as a stylish alternative
Tea has long been more than just a traditional hot drink - it is increasingly establishing itself as a refreshing and versatile alternative - even as sparkling wine. In the trendiest bars in Europe you can now find sophisticated tea cocktails and pairings with exclusive dishes. Special types of tea such as oolong, white tea or fermented kombucha offer exciting worlds of flavors that harmonize perfectly with modern cuisine. Another exciting element in many modern tea creations is verjus - the juice of unripe grapes.
Verjus: Sustainability and taste combined
Verjus was already used in the Middle Ages as a mild source of acidity and is now experiencing a comeback as a stylish and sustainable ingredient. Due to legal yield restrictions, the grapes would rot on the ground as harvest waste, but instead they are processed into this noble juice. This not only means more sustainability instead of food waste, but also a flavor enhancement for tea blends and non-alcoholic drinks. With its fine acidity, verjus brings a refreshing note to tea sparkling wines and cocktails and harmonizes perfectly with herbal and fruity notes. Our Thee Bubblee is the best example of this.
The market is growing – and so is the selection
Europe is currently experiencing a real revolution in non-alcoholic beverage culture. More and more winemakers and manufacturers are investing in the development of high-quality non-alcoholic alternatives. The quality is constantly improving and the changing awareness of consumers is ensuring increasing demand.
Whether for Dry January, a conscious lifestyle or simply because you want taste without alcohol - non-alcoholic wines, sparkling wines and teas are here to stay. And the best thing? The selection is getting bigger and better. Cheers - or better said: Viva - to enjoyment without regrets!