A closer look at the zero proof movement 🍸 👀

 

colourful image of assorted vintage glassware, cocktails and snacks

 

You may have noticed that in the last few years, a new movement has emerged known as the "sober curious", “non-alcoholic” or “zero proof” movement. This phenomenon is characterized by individuals who are choosing to be more mindful of their substance consumption and are questioning the role that alcohol, recreational drugs and other substances play in their lives. Many people who identify as sober curious still drink alcohol and enjoy other substances, but they do so with consideration for how these things make them feel.

In case you’re wondering why a shop that celebrates pleasure is interested in the sober curious movement, let us clarify. Here at The Lake, we believe that mindfulness, the process of tuning into the present moment, is one of the key foundations upon which we can begin to explore what pleasure means to us. Mindfulness is a practice – an unending act of returning to ourselves. Of turning inward. A moment to check-in with ourselves and ask questions like: what sensations am I experiencing right now? How does _____ make my body/mind/heart feel?

As mindfulness continues to make it mainstream, there has been a similar rise in the popularity of the zero proof movement, which refers to the consumption of beverages that contain no alcohol. Zero proof drinks are a great alternative for those who want to enjoy a night out without the negative effects of alcohol. They are also a good option for those who are sober curious and looking to reduce their alcohol intake. 

At The Lake, we offer a wide selection of zero proof drinks that are perfect for any occasion. And our collection of zero proof sips is ever-evolving. Whether you're looking for a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail or a sophisticated zero proof beverage to pair with dinner, The Lake has something for everyone. These drinks are made with high-quality ingredients and are designed to be just as satisfying and flavourful as their alcoholic counterparts (without the pesky hangover). 

One of the benefits of the sober curious movement is that it has helped to de-stigmatize sobriety. It's no longer considered strange or unusual to choose not to drink alcohol, and many people are discovering that they can have just as much fun without it. This is especially important for those in recovery, who may feel pressure to drink in social situations.

To summarize: the rise of the zero proof movement is changing the way we think about alcohol consumption. By providing high-quality, delicious alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks, our mission at The Lake is to help create a culture that is more inclusive and accepting of all drinking preferences. Whether you're sober, sober curious or just looking for a fun and refreshing beverage, zero proof drinks are a fun alternative to consider.


Here are a few of our zero proof summer favourites:


Parch Paloma

Fun collage photo of fresh fruit, Prickly Paloma by Parch, dried flowers on a pink backdrop

Parch's Prickly Paloma is a fresh take on the classic Paloma cocktail without the tequila and the hangover risk. Instead, this zero-proof version contains stress relief Botanics and adaptogens. Parch uses 100% plant-based ingredients.

Taste notes:
A citrusy bittersweet cocktail that showcases the unique combination of organic Blue Weber Agave, Prickly Pear Cactus Fruit, tangy Grapefruit, Orange Agave Bitters, crisp Jicama, and floral-tart Hibiscus.


Stay Classy IPA

Photo of three cans of Stay Classy non-alcoholic IPA by Bellwoods Beer

ABV aside, the Stay Classy IPA by Bellwoods Brewery has a lot in common with other IPAs. The same ingredients are used with the same purpose to make a quality product! As a result, Stay Classy pours just like a beer, with good head retention and a soft, pale yellow body.

Taste notes:
It’s dry, and refreshing with a pleasantly bitter finish.


Actual Sunshine

Advertising image of Kin Euphorics Actual Sunshine can. A hand is holding a can of the product into the sky with the word "new" in an archway around it.

The newest Kin, Actual Sunshine, is a zero-proof sparkling drink infused with adaptogens, nootropics, and vitamins such as C and D, Zinc, Saffron, and Turmeric to boost immunity. The collagen and Coffeeberry® brighten your complexion and give you a small dose of caffeine, making your morning bright-eyed, happy and full of energy.

Taste notes:
A fresh fusion of pineapple, cardamom, turmeric, & saffron. It's pretty much a breakfast Bellini.


Spumante Bubbly

Image of a bottle of Spumante Bubbly by Oddbird, on a white backdrop
 
Oddbird's Spumante de-Alcoholised Sparkling Wine from the Prosecco region of Italy – a unique offering that celebrates both purity and pleasure without including alcohol.  Crafted by experienced Italian vintners using traditional aging methods for up to 12 months and then liberated from its alcohol content, Oddbird aims to challenge and break the social conventions that tend to encompass our drinking culture.

Tasting notes:
Bursting with fragrant aromas of white pear, green apple, elderflower, and grapefruit, this spumante is made with 100% Glera grapes in Treviso, Veneto. 


Margarita Drops

Lifestyle image of Margarita by Brella Drops. Dried orange slices, product and cocktail sitting on the edge of a table.

Brella’s Mock Margarita flavour cocktail drops turn seltzer info into an instant zero-proof drink. Crafted with a harmonious combination of Calamansi Lime and Agave, Margarita Drops provide the tangy flavour of a traditional margarita without any booze, calories or sugar, quickly and easily enhancing any soda or sparkling water.

Tasting Notes:
Calamansi Lime and Agave


Is there a zero proof brand you think we should know about?
Let us know by sending us a DM on Instagram!