by Krysta Chapman

In recent years, a quiet but spirited (pun intended) revolution has been brewing in the world of beverages. A growing number of indi- viduals are choosing to forgo alcohol in favor of a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. This shift has given rise to a surge in non-alcoholic (NA)—or zero proof—products and compa- nies, signaling a significant cultural change that goes beyond mere trendiness. Instead, it reflects a fundamental reevaluation of priori- ties, with an emphasis on the quality of life and well-being.

In fact, according to a 2023 Gallup poll, “young adults are drinking less frequently and are less likely to drink to excess, with 62% of adults under age 35 say they drink, down from 72% two decades ago.”

While the traditional notion of socializing often revolves around alcohol, the new normal challenges this paradigm. Non-alcoholic drinkers are redefining what it means to enjoy a night out or relax at home. They seek alter- natives that offer the same festivity, relaxation, and/ or sophistication without the negative effects of alcohol. This shift has spurred a wave of innovation in the beverage industry, with

an array of NA options hitting the market including non-alcoholic beer companies small and large—such as the NA Corona or Heinek- en—dealcoholized wines, non-alcoholic spirits, mixers, and more.

TO CBD OR NOT TO CBD? THAT IS A QUESTION

CBD (cannabidiol) and Delta beverages—such as High Rise Beverages, Hi Seltzer, and even more we’ll mention later—have emerged as popular alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks, particularly for individuals seeking to reduce or abstain from alcohol consumption but who still want to experience a slight “buzz” or “release” that drinking can deliver. CBD beverages are typically made by infusing drinks with cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive com- pound derived from the cannabis plant known for its potential calming and relaxing effects. Beverages containing Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC come from the cannabis sativa plant, which naturally produces more than 100 cannabinoids, or active constituents.

Both CBD and Delta can be made into various types of beverages, such as teas, seltzers, or

cocktails, and many people opt for these beverages when transitioning away from alcohol due to their purported ability to alleviate anxiety, stress, and promote

a sense of well-being without the negative side effects associated with alcohol. However, some individuals are hesitant to include CBD and Delta beverages in the non-alcoholic market due to concerns regarding potential psychoactive effects, regulatory ambiguity, and lack of comprehensive research on their long-term impacts.

Obviously, there’s a lot to unpack when it comes to CBD and Delta products, so we’ll keep it simple: do what serves you as a consumer best.

MORE THAN A MOCKTAIL

One notable aspect of this movement is the rejection of overly simplis- tic, juice-based drinks in favor of more complex and thoughtful bever- ages. Zero Proof advocates and drinkers are demanding more than just sugary concoctions; they crave depth, nuance, and flavor complexity. Enter the era of NA cocktails—sophisticated and adult-oriented bever- ages that cater to the discerning palate. This is no mocktail, friends.

While mocktails evoke images of childish sweetness like the classic Shirley Temple—Sprite and cherry juice—non-alcoholic cocktails are crafted with the same care and attention to detail as their alcoholic counterparts. These beverages aren’t just substitutes for those abstain- ing from alcohol; they are genuine expressions of creativity and crafts- manship. From complex botanical blends to intricate flavor profiles and techniques, non-alcoholic cocktails offer a world of possibilities for those seeking an elevated drinking experience.

To support this, the non-alcoholic community of advocates, mix- ologists, and consumers are actively pushing for greater education, recognition, and inclusion. They are advocating for more options in bars and restaurants, as well as challenging the stigma associated with not drinking alcohol. While it’s certainly true that many still battle with alcoholism which often results in going dry, gone are the days of that—or pregnancy—being the leading reasons for sobriety.

The rise of non-alcoholic living speaks to a broader cultural shift. It reflects a growing awareness of the importance of mental and physi- cal well-being, as well as a desire for greater balance in all aspects of life. For many, choosing to stop drinking isn’t just a passing fad but a conscious decision to prioritize health and happiness. Some may opt to jumpstart their year with a Dry January; others may choose to prolong their journey. We think both are worthy of praise.

FINDING NON-ALCOHOLIC PRODUCTS IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

We cannot overstate it enough: this is not a trend. According to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, “In 2022, sales of ‘no- and low-alcohol bever- ages’ grew by more than 7% in volume across 10 key global markets, surpassing $11 billion in market value. This is up from $8 billion shown in 2018.” Additionally, the IWSR expects Australia, Canada, and the US markets to see double-digit volume growth by 2026. Perhaps surprisingly (or not) Germany is currently the largest no or low alco- holic market in the world.

So where can you source or enjoy some of the best and hottest zero proof spirits, mixers, and more in or around the Lowcountry? Thought you’d never ask.

Based in Charleston, SC, Levity Cannabis Spirits offers a wide variety of Cannabis cocktails in a can and functional spirits. Check them out in our Product Spotlight on page 16.

Rebel Rabbit and Five Flowers, based out of Greenville and Charlotte respectively, both offer D9 Seltzers that are perfect for BBQs, parties or to stock in the fridge for a mellow night at home. Both companies focus on traditional fruit-forward profiles in every refreshing, crisp sip. Amethyst NA Spirits was founded by two brothers out of Bluffton, SC who were already experienced whiskey distillers. After discovering the growth of the zero proof community they sought to create something to fit the bill, and that they did. Amethyst is a smooth, non-alcoholic spirit blended with invigorating fruits and botanicals. Want a local beer? Ceebo is a Ger- man-style pilsner brewed right here in the Carolinas.

One of the pioneers in this space is High Rise Seltzers, brought to us by the Charleston Hemp Collective. One stop into High Rise Dry Bar—where our cover photo was shot—proves the point that non-alcoholic drinks don’t have to be lazy and sugar-laden. Their CBD and Delta cocktails are complex, visually appealing, and result in a welcomed mellow “buzz”. Another place truly leaning into the NA scene is Sweatman’s Garden on Folly Road, which despite describing itself as the “World’s First Sodary & Fondue-Hotdog Lounge” has a long list of delicious NA cocktails to choose from. And of course, Sèchey is the only 100% zero proof bottle shop in Charleston, offer- ing endless options for alcohol-free and functional beer, wine, and spirits. Sèchey, founded by Emily Heintz, was the Presenting Sponsor of the Zero Proof Garden at this year’s Charleston Wine and Food Festival, where they delighted attendees with NA sips of Kin Euphorics and an unbelievable NA margarita made with Clean Co. tequila alternative.

You can also follow a few zero proof groups based out of Charleston on Instagram, including Fish Out of Water (fishoutofwater_chs), Yeah, But N.A. (yeah_butna), and Booze Free Babes Charleston (boozefreebabeschs)—all which help make going NA a fun, supportive, and inclusive experience.

The reality is, that it’s your choice to make. Whether you choose to partake in drinking alcohol or not; whether you decide to dabble with CBD; or whether it’s best for you to abstain from everything—the decision is yours. We’re just happy to see the options are plentiful, locally and beyond.