Experimenting with an alcohol-free lifestyle, whether for the Ochsner Eat Fit Alcohol Free for 40 Challenge or any other reason you’re choosing to dial back, offers a refreshing perspective on living life to the fullest, without the effects of alcohol.
If you’re venturing into the vibrant world of zero-proof living, consider this your toolkit to help make every sip both delightful and fulfilling.
Zero-proof spirits
Let’s start with zero-proof spirits, an essential element for those who enjoy the ritual and taste of traditional cocktails. Brands like Ritual, Lyre’s and Seedlip have redefined non-alcoholic options, offering an array of spirit-less alternatives from gin to whiskey, perfect for crafting zero-proof cocktails that rival their traditional counterparts.
Exploring non-alcoholic wines
The world of non-alcoholic wine has expanded significantly, with alternatives that mirror the complexity of traditional wines. Brands like Sovi and Sapiens tend to be crowd-pleasers, though I’ve found that it’s best to try a few to land on one you enjoy.
Sparkling wines (like Naughty Sparkling Chardonnay) tend to be better received across the board in the non-alcoholic space, with the bubbles adding a crispness and mouthfeel that is sometimes missing in still wine options.
Sugar content can creep up quickly, though, so look for brands with 3 grams of sugar or less per 100 ml serving.
Discovering low-calorie non-alcoholic beers
Non-alcoholic beer has evolved far beyond the basic options of the past. Brands like Athletic Brewing Company, Surreal Brewing and Partake offer craft beer experiences in styles ranging from IPAs to stouts, all with minimal calories and no alcohol, providing that hoppy goodness without the alcohol.
Bubbling over: sparkling waters and sodas
Keep your mixers – and your hydration – interesting with an array of sparkling waters, both plain and flavored. Topo Chico is a personal favorite. Its crisp, neutral bubbles’ effervescence makes it perfect for mixing or enjoying on its own.
Bitters for a drop of complexity
A few drops of bitters can transform a simple club soda into a sophisticated cocktail-like experience. Just a dash will elevate your zero-proof cocktails, giving them a bar-quality feel that’s perfect for social events or quiet evenings at home.
It’s worth noting that bitters traditionally contain alcohol. But typically only a few drops are needed, so the alcohol is minimal. For those looking for a zero-alcohol option, El Guapo Bitters, a New Orleans-based brand, offers an innovative range of alcohol-free bitters that add complexity and depth to any drink.
Ready-to-drink: Convenience meets craft
For those seeking convenience, ready-to-drink zero-proof options can offer refreshing variety on the go. But beware: many are loaded with added sugar, some with as much as 21 grams of sugar (a day’s worth) in a single can.
Keeping an eye on sugar content, a few of my ready-to-drink favorites include sparkling hop water – produced by a variety of different brands (e.g. Hop Water by Abita, Hop’d Tea by NOLA Brewing, Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher) – with zero calories and zero sugar. I also really like El Guapo Bittters and Soda in 12-ounce cans, and Mockly’s lower-sugar Madame L’Orange smoky citrus elixir.
If you want both convenience and function, try Peak Cocktails. With just 35 calories and 5 grams of sugar, their canned zero-proof cocktails are made with functional ingredients like ashwagandha, L-Theanine, lemon balm, along with tart cherry for muscle and sleep support. (I’ll share more about functional ingredients in my March 23rd column.)
Elevate your glassware and barware
Part of the joy of drinking is in the presentation. Invest in high-quality glassware that makes each sip special. Whether it’s a beautiful rocks glass or a vintage coupe, the right vessel can turn a simple drink into an experience worth savoring.
Recipe inspiration with CRAFT
Our book, “CRAFT: The Eat Fit Guide to Zero Proof Cocktails,” is your comprehensive guide to mastering the art of zero-proof mixology. Featuring more than 50 recipes, it’s filled with gorgeous photographs (thanks to Eat Fit dietitian Hope Fruge) as well as guides to barware, bitters, glassware and everything else you need to craft a fully sensorial zero-proof cocktail.
Zero proofing isn’t just about going alcohol-free. The aim of this toolkit is to give you the essentials for seamlessly incorporating zero-proof options into your lifestyle — enjoying every sip without compromising taste. Cheers to a vibrant, healthier you!
Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD, is a registered dietitian with Ochsner Health and founder of Ochsner’s Eat Fit nonprofit initiative. For more wellness content, tune in to Molly’s podcast, FUELED Wellness + Nutrition, and follow @MollykimballRD and @EatFitOchsner on social media.