You guys, this place had been on my restaurant bucket list for years. YEARS I TELL YOU. A concept by Chef Aaron Silverman (honest to goodness, no relation; Silverman was awarded a James Beard Foundation Award in 2016), who also owns Rose’s Luxury and Little Pearl, Pineapple & Pearls takes its food and beverage programs very seriously while not taking itself that seriously at all. The staff wear blazers over t-shirts. The general manager greets you with a Polaroid camera and snaps a before-dinner shot of you. There’s a huge portrait of Anthony Bourdain on the wall. The playlist is full of bangers. I don’t know about you, but descriptors like stuffy and pinky’s up come to mind when I think of Michelin-starred, not a place with disco balls and lightning bolts.

If you’re just discovering Zero Proof Nation by Laura for the first time, here’s the gist: I write about global non-alcoholic travel and beverage culture from the perspective of someone who’s been alcohol-free almost two decades.

The story behind my Michelin experience in DC

For a while, I’ve been stewing on a new project: a Washington DC / Baltimore Destination Guide from a non-alc lens. Turns out, it wasn’t so new after all — I’d been laying the groundwork with Booze Free in DC since I launched the site in January 2020. That being said, my vision is to create a guide local to the DC metro and Baltimore areas highlighting some of the best in inclusive hospitality across price point and occasion (e.g. date night, anniversary, solo dinner, casual dining with friends, staycation in the city). Knowing that people can’t read my mind, I started researching restaurants, bars, and hotels with legitimate NA programs (or at least the hint of a legit NA program on respective websites) and started pitching said purveyors of non-alc hospitality all across DC and Baltimore.

You’ll see the Destination Guide on my website soon; it’ll be a living document that I update based on my own experiences at bars, restaurants, and hotels — you’ll see a “Laura Vetted” stamp next to the places I’ve personally experienced. I’ll also include some that I’ve heavily researched or heard recommended. From the guide will come Substack issues like today’s, blog posts on ZPN, and some social media content for good measure.

Pineapple and Pearls was one of the first to extend a welcome my way. And trust me, I definitely squealed in delight upon reading Cosmo’s email. As I mentioned before, P&P was a bucket list restaurant. I knew they had a zero proof pairing, which absolutely delighted me, and I knew I’d be in for the treat of a lifetime.

More on my time at P&P for paid subscribers. Scroll down for more.

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Let’s say you’re traveling and want to find a non-alc bottle shop, booze-free bar, or other types of NA-forward hospitality, retail, and experiences. Where do you turn?

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🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

August 28 | Soberversary Celebration by Bar Nun / NYC
September 3 | Soft Strides: Anniversary Run Club / NYC
September 7 | Freed From Launch / London, UK
September 12 | Dry Hop Fest by Reducaholic / Denver, CO
September 16 | Drinks with Benefits Summit / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

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To my free subscriber fam, I’ll see you next week!

To my paid subs, see you below for a more behind-the-scenes look at my time at P&P in Washington, DC!

xo,
Laura

Beverage highlights at Pineapple & Pearls

My first and second drinks were courtesy of terroir-focused non-alcoholic beverage importer, Delmosa, who I’ve talked about before.

Read more

The second annual Zero Proof Choice Awards and first annual Water Choice Awards took place on Saturday and Sunday, respectively, both put on by The Daily Pour!

If you’re just discovering Zero Proof Nation by Laura for the first time, here’s the gist: I write about global non-alcoholic beverage culture from the perspective of someone who’s been alcohol-free almost two decades.

Top row: on the top left, inclusive hospitality advocate, Tedx speaker, and sauna / sobriety facilitator and I got together for dinner at Rosie’s (my hibiscus agua fresca is in the middle of the row) and dessert at The Little Cupcake Bakery. Top right: yours truly, 2x author / cocktail and hospitality educator / head judge — the one and only , and his partner in business and life, the creative genius Maria Bastasch.

Middle row: yours truly with Estelle Bossy, a career beverage director in NYC and my judging bestie both days; the whole group of us at the Zero Proof Choice Awards: Rich Buchanan, Andrew Eisbrouch, Alex Highsmith, Karl Franz Williams, , Maria and Derek, LP O’Brien (Netflix Drinks Master winner and DC hometown girlie), and Abe Zarate. Middle right: my view from Central Park.

Bottom row: I had to go to Times Square just because (actually, my reason was selfish: I wanted to go to the M&M Store and get some goodies). Middle: Water Choice Awards judging panel, comprising yours truly, Ashley Epperson of Salacious Drinks; Cameron Smith of The Little Inn at Washington; Preston Boyer, artist and “the people’s water somm,” and Estelle. Bottom right: on the Amtrak Acela train back home with my Nouvie hat.

So what’s it actually like to be a judge?

You’d think, it’s all non-alc so there’s no need to spit, right? Wrong. Unless you’re ready to balloon up a few extra pant sizes, you have to taste and spit. My first year I barely spit and I learned my lesson the hard way. Regardless of what you choose to do, your palate will start to get tired. Palate fatigue is real. This is why we had basic water crackers to soak up residual flavors hanging around on our tongues and inside cheeks, and why we also had a lunch break dividing up the day.

Also, contrary to what some might think, you won’t be tasting all categories as a Zero Proof Choice Awards judge. It’s just not possible to get through all the liquids, give them the attention they deserve, write thoughtful notes that the producers will see, and still have a functioning tongue at the end of the way. My categories were NA beers, NA non-functional RTDs, and wine occasion beverages (that are not dealcoholized wines).

For the Water Choice Awards, however, I tasted everything. Still, sparkling, and flavored waters. Even with a small amount of spitting, I felt hydrated, rejuvenated, and like I had just left a spa day 🧖‍♀️.

Some things to consider when tasting a liquid that you’ll be evaluating: appearance (color, opacity), aroma (my AFNA wine and beer certifications came in handy here, thinking of the wine aroma wheel), texture / mouthfeel, flavor, and length (do you still taste the beverage even a minute later or does it dissipate immediately?). Notes you’ll write can be basic or flowery, depending on your level of inspiration. Most liquids we tasted medaled (bronze = good; silver = really good; gold = incredible; double gold = stratospheric and all the judges are in agreement). Very rarely, a liquid didn’t medal, and we had to consider several factors including whether something spoiled in transit…or if it just wasn’t well constructed on any level, period. Mindful that someone put their heart and soul into the liquid, we were never mean and always constructive, but I can still imagine a producer’s heartache. Yes, it’s an honor to be a judge at a competition; it’s also quite the responsibility.

ICYMI: The Duchess | 📍 Baltimore, MD

If you’ve never been to the Hampden neighborhood of Baltimore, just imagine a much smaller pre-tech boom Austin: a little over half a mile of funky boutiques, restaurants and bars, tattoo and ice cream parlors, and yes, Baltimore’s own non-alc bottle shop, Modern World. On the corner of the main drag, 36th St., is The Duchess, a cozy British pub serving Chamorro-inspired — from Guam — cuisine.

When I heard Anna Welker, former beverage manager at Topside by Revival and party responsible for Hyatt’s whole Zero Proof / Zero Judgments menu program, had taken over as the beverage manager at The Duchess, I knew this bar / restaurant would take its non-alc program very, very seriously.

Let’s talk about Hirie’s Homecoming (that’s the drink on the left of the photo row). Named for musician Hirie (Patricia “Trish” Jetton, of Filipina and British heritage, the perfect blend for The Duchess, which we now know as British pub with a Pacific Island (Guam) flavor), the “homecoming” in question refers to Hirie’s return to Hawaii, where she spent part of her youth, upon getting sober. The cocktail’s name is so thoughtful and intentional and still feels playful.

Served with an expressed lemon 🍋 peel, the beautiful citrus aroma greeted me as I took a sip of the cold liquid (kept frigid by the large block of ice in the center of the glass) and immediately recognized The Pathfinder, but in a totally new outfit: surrounded by macadamia orgeat, earthy and aromatic Earl Grey tea, and some salinity brought to us by the celery bitters.

Between Chef Kiko Fejarang’s island flavors and Anna Welker’s non-alc wizardry, The Duchess should be on everyone’s radar.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE DUCHESS

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Let’s say you’re traveling and want to find a non-alc bottle shop, booze-free bar, or other types of NA-forward hospitality, retail, and experiences. Where do you turn?

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LET'S GO EXPLORING!

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA / CPG (consumer packaged goods)

September 7 | Freed From1 Launch / London, UK
September 12 | Dry Hop Fest by Reducaholic / Denver, CO
September 16 | Drinks with Benefits Summit / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

Have an event coming up? Reply to this email and send it my way.

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See you next week, friends!
Let me know if there’s a beverage you’d like me to review.

In the meantime, I’ll start putting together a sneak peek at my recent visit to Michelin-starred Pineapple & Pearls in Washington, D.C.!

Stay tuned…

xo,
Laura

I’ll be taking the train 🚊 to the Big Apple tomorrow for The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards and Water Choice Awards! That’s right, yours truly is a judge at both events (closed to the public) and I’m looking forward to tasting some truly unique liquids. Not gonna lie — I’m the most intrigued by the water event. Did you know there are water sommeliers? 💦

Anyway, today’s post also counts as part 7(!) of What Makes a Great NA Bottle / Functional Bev Shop? I talked to non-alc bottle shop owners all over the world 🌎 and asked them three questions: 1) What makes a great non-alc / functional bev bottle shop; 2) What are some of your faves of the moment?; and 3) What’s your #1 tip for sober curious shoppers?

And if you’re just discovering Zero Proof Nation by Laura on Substack for the first time, here’s the gist: I write about global non-alcoholic beverage culture from the perspective of someone who’s been alcohol-free almost two decades. I know what it’s like to not have options; that’s why ZPN exists.

On the Road: The Duchess | Baltimore, MD

If you’ve never been to the Hampden neighborhood of Baltimore, just imagine a much smaller pre-tech boom Austin: a little over half a mile of funky boutiques, restaurants and bars, tattoo and ice cream parlors, and yes, Baltimore’s own non-alc bottle shop, Modern World. On the corner of the main drag, 36th St., is The Duchess, a cozy British pub serving Chamorro — from Guam — cuisine.

When I heard Anna Welker, former beverage manager at Topside by Revival and party responsible for Hyatt’s whole Zero Proof / Zero Judgments menu program, had taken over as the beverage manager at The Duchess, I knew this bar / restaurant would take its non-alc program very, very seriously.

I’ll be writing about the full experience in a future issue of this newsletter, so make sure you’re subscribed! For now, though, take my word for it: between Chef Kiko Fejarang’s island flavors and Anna Welker’s non-alc wizardry (you have to try Hirie’s Homecoming — with Pathfinder, earl grey tea, macadamia orgeat, and celery bitters; more on the cocktail’s backstory in said future issue), The Duchess should be on everyone’s radar.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE DUCHESS

But first, a review: [dʒɪn] BITTER by Manufaktur Jorg Geiger

If cucumber spa water, juniper-forward gin and tonic, and non-alc bubbly had a baby, it would be Manufaktur Jorg Geiger’s dʒɪn Bitter out of Germany. This is a hydrolat, or…

Parts 1-6 ⤵️

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In Good Spirits | 📍 Chicago, IL 🇺🇸

Q+A with Hector Diaz and Adriana Gaspar, co-owners of In Good Spirits.

What makes a great non-alc (NA) / functional bev bottle shop?

We think a great NA bottle shop is one where a customer can become a regular, or even better, a friend! In today’s society finding connection can be difficult as ever, however, we’ll always be a place where someone can comfortably pop-in to have a chat, of course about non-alcoholic drinks, but it could be about anything at all! Going from a newcomer, to a regular, to even a friend just shows how trust is built over time! As non-alcoholic beverages become more widely available, we hope that our neighborly feel blended with bev expertise encourages folks to keep coming back!

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

It’s nearly impossible to pin down a favorite brand at the moment with so many quality brands out right now! We’re loving Yuzuco at the moment for their super refreshing sparkling beverages like their Yuzu-ade, but also their versatile Yuzu Super Juice and fun candied Yuzu

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

Don’t shop for a replacement, shop for a new favorite!

The world of non-alcoholic and functional beverages has grown so much that there’s something for every palate, but not every drink is trying to imitate alcohol. Stay curious, ask questions, sample different styles, and don’t be afraid to try something unexpected. You might discover a flavor or style you end up loving even more!

Website: www.ingoodspirits.online
Instagram: @ingoodspirits.online

Meet the Global Map of NA — trusted by 500K+ people worldwide!

Find non-alc bottle shops, booze-free bars, NA-forward hospitality, NA-friendly retail, and alcohol-free travel experiences ⤵️

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Monday Morning | 📍 San Diego, CA 🇺🇸

Q+A with Zane Curtis, owner of Monday Morning.

What makes a great non-alc (NA) / functional bev bottle shop?

A great non-alcoholic shop treats these drinks as a real category, not a consolation prize. For us that comes down to three things. First, curation, there are hundreds of NA beers, wines, and spirits out there and plenty of them still miss, so our job is to taste everything and only put the ones that actually deliver on our shelves. Second, letting people try before they buy, nobody should gamble forty dollars on a bottle they’ve never tasted, so you can sample any of our 500-plus drinks before you commit. And third, people behind the counter who actually know the category and can steer you, whether you want a hop-forward NA IPA for the grill or a functional pour to wind down. Get those right and you’re not just selling bottles, you’re helping people drink differently.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Right now, it's Bolle.

Their non-alcoholic sparkling wine is fermented twice, the same way real Champagne and Prosecco are made, so it actually behaves like the real thing: fine bubbles, a dry finish, and none of the cloying sweetness that gave NA wine its bad reputation. It's the bottle I reach for when I want to prove a point. I'll pour someone a glass at a toast, let them enjoy it, and then tell them there's zero alcohol in it. That double take is exactly what we're about. The Blanc de Blancs and the Rosé are both stunning, and if you really want to geek out, their Grand Reserve is the world’s first lees-aged non-alcoholic wine.

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

Don’t judge the whole category by some sad NA beer you tried five years ago, and don’t try to swap your old drink one-for-one. Come in, tell us what you actually like, and taste a few things side by side. The person who swears they “don’t like NA anything” has almost always just not found their drink yet. And don’t sleep on the functional stuff, drinks made with adaptogens or kava give you a genuine something without the alcohol, and they’re a lot of people’s surprise favorites.

Website: www.mondaymorning-af.com
Instagram: @mondaymorning.af

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

August 15 | The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | The Daily Pour’s Water Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | Bar Nun’s Non-Alc Wine Walk / NYC
September 12 | Dry Hop Fest by Reducaholic / Denver, CO
September 16 | Drinks with Benefits Summit / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

Have an event coming up? Reply to this email and send it my way.

📰 Where can you get the latest NA news?

Mock the Toast
Dry Atlas
The Modern Substitute
the drī edit

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See you next week as we continue our global trip to meet bottle shops around the world and discover what makes them so great! Along the way we’ll stop for reviews of SKUs and maybe even an event recap or two.

xo,
Laura

If you’re just discovering Zero Proof Nation by Laura on Substack for the first time, here’s the gist: I write about global non-alcoholic beverage culture from the perspective of someone who’s been alcohol-free for 19 years. I love this work and I hope my passion carries over into my words.

Taking a quick break from the What Makes a Great NA Bottle / Functional Bev Shop?* series to share some photos from a few recent events: Sober Supper Club DC at Summer House Santa Monica in North Bethesda, MD; Generation NA’s Free Spirited Festival in Lafayette, IN; and my visit to both Orangily locations in Indianapolis and Carmel, IN.

*What Makes a Great Non-Alc Bottle Shop series:

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SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL NON-ALC BOTTLE SHOPS

Sober Supper Club DC

Generation NA / Free Spirited Festival

Visit to Orangily x 2

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🍹🍺🍷 How to use the ZPN beverage directory

1. Go to www.zeroproofnation.com.

2. Click on NA Bevs in the navigation bar.

   

3. You’ll be brought to this page ⤵️

4. From here, choose any category you like. For example, if you clicked on functional beverages, you’d navigate to this page, where you can then click on a link; I clicked leilo, for instance. ⤵️

5. Now let’s go to the wine / wine alts page. To get there, simply click Back to NA Bevs at the bottom right of the page.

6. Here’s what that’ll look like.

I ended up at Solubrae. Use promo code ZPN20 for 20% off.

Have you used the beverage directory before? What brands have you discovered through this tool?

Leave a comment

Meet ZPN Map Sponsor: Tomorrow Cellars

Thank you to Tracy Sweeney and the Tomorrow Cellars team for being the ZPN map sponsor for Q3! I’ve reviewed Rhone Blanc and Red Blend before, but have to say — their Sparkling Blanc de Rhône is next level. Congrats to the brand who made #6 of the USA Today Top 10 NA Wines as voted by you. Tomorrow just completed bottling their 2025 vintage and will release a new 187ml mini of their award-winning Sparkling Blanc de Rhône in September – the perfect size for midweek bubbles or for mixing a terrific NA mimosa for weekend brunch!

Meet Tomorrow Cellars

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

August 15 | The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | The Daily Pour’s Water Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | Bar Nun’s Non-Alc Wine Walk / NYC
September 12 | Dry Hop Fest by Reducaholic / Denver, CO
September 16 | Drinks with Benefits Summit / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

Have an event coming up? Reply to this email and send it my way.

⚡️ You know you wanna. ⚡️

Subscribe now

See you next week as we continue our global trip to meet bottle shops around the world and discover what makes them so great! Along the way we’ll stop for reviews of SKUs and maybe even an event recap or two.

xo,
Laura

If you’ve been keeping track, today’s post is PART 6 of What Makes a Great NA Bottle / Functional Bev Shop? But if you’re just discovering Zero Proof Nation by Laura on Substack for the first time, here’s the gist: I talked to non-alc bottle shop owners all over the world and asked them three questions: 1) What makes a great non-alc / functional bev bottle shop; 2) What are some of your faves of the moment?; and 3) What’s your #1 tip for sober curious shoppers?

From Upstate New York (two bottle shops chime in!) to PA and TX, here’s what they had to say. ⤵️

xoxo,
Laura

📰 But first, a quick NA news break ⤵️

• Austria’s Zeronimo voted #1 NA Wine in the USA Today Top 10. View the full list here. As yours truly was a member of the expert panel, I’m proud to say I nominated many in the list!

• Melting Forest debuts sparkling Glow Up Collagen Protein Water in fun flavors like Blood Orange Saffron, Hibiscus Berry, Apple Ginger, and Rosemary Lemon.

• Free Spirited Festival, run by Generation NA, is this weekend at Wea Creek Orchard in Lafayette, IN!

  

  

  I’ll be speaking on a panel with other incredible women from the NA industry and pouring Solubrae, a beautiful California wine with a Daylight and Sundown expression. Use ZPN20 for 20% off your order!

• Open since May, Café 333 is a Kansas City booze-free jazz bar.

• Two new upstate NY bottle shops open: DrySpace Beverage and Hudson Dry.

• Want more NA headlines? Subscribe to Mock the Toast, Dry Atlas, The Modern Substitute, and the drī edit.

DrySpace Beverage | 📍 Dobbs Ferry, NY 🇺🇸

Q+A with Matt and Molly Ferguson, owners of DrySpace Beverage.

What makes a great non-alc (NA) / functional bev bottle shop?

When Matt and I decided to open an NA bottle shop back in January 2025, we came up with an idea of what we thought would make for a great bottle shop. After visiting all the bottle shops in Southern California and 2 during our drive across the states to New York, we noticed that the common theme among successful shops was exactly what we envisioned: community, knowledge, engagement, and education. Understanding the available NA options, being able to explain each product, offering tastings and hosting events are critical to any bottle shop's success, but still come second to developing a sense of community.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Matt and I will have very different answers to this one!

Molly: I am currently loving Solubrae (thank you for the intro, Laura!). I find them to be a nice take on white wines and really enjoy their flavor profiles for the summer. They are crisp, refreshing, and pair well with most foods. Daylight is their California Pinot Grigio, with citrus and floral zest. Sundown is their California Pinot Noir with hints of berry and melon.

Matt: I don’t have a favorite brand. My favorite categories are beverages that are not trying to replace an alcoholic version—the non-legacy drinks that strive to be more and do more than what you would associate with traditional alcoholic drinks. [Editor’s note: some great examples are The Pathfinder, Tenneyson, and Dry Wit].

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

I think we can both agree that the most important thing for a new shopper is to walk in with an open mind. If you come in open to substitutes rather than one-to-one replacements you will be much happier.

Website: www.dryspacebev.com
Instagram: @dryspacebev

Thank you to Tracy Sweeney and the Tomorrow Cellars team for being the ZPN map sponsor for Q3! I’ve reviewed Rhone Blanc and Red Blend before, but have to say — their sparkling brut is next level. Congrats to Tomorrow Cellars who made #6 of the USA Today Top 10 NA Wines as voted by you.

Wallace Dry Goods | 📍 Ardmore, PA 🇺🇸

Q+A with Robin Cummiskey, owner of Wallace Dry Goods.

What makes a great non-alc (NA) / functional bev bottle shop?

It's about knowing your shelf, not just filling it. Anyone can stock SKUs. A great shop has staff who've actually tasted everything, know the background of each brand and what makes it special, and can steer a customer to the right bottle, not just the trending one. That starts with asking questions, not assuming. Everyone's relationship to alcohol is different, just like their palate, and there's no judgment in where someone stands with it. Cheers to Choices® means meeting people there and helping them find what they're actually looking for. Community matters just as much, with events, ticketed tastings, and mixology classes turning a shop into a gathering place, not just a place to buy something, and letting people sample a much wider range than whatever's in daily rotation.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Abstinence. Their Blood Orange Bittersweet Aperitif is incredibly versatile—it adds a layer of depth to almost any drink. The line brings its own spin to traditional cocktail flavors while still covering a wide range. Right now I’m making smoky Negronis with the Blood Orange Bittersweet Aperitif and their Cape Agave, and it’s been a favorite.

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

If you're new to drinking non-alcoholic cocktails, anchor to a drink you already love rather than shopping "NA" as its own category. If you're an Aperol spritz person, start with a spritz-style NA; if it's margaritas, start there. Also, attend an event before you buy. A ticketed tasting or mixology class lets you try a much wider range of brands than you'd find available to sample in the shop on any given day, and it's a great way to connect with others who are exploring the same thing. It's the fastest way to find what actually works for your palate, alongside a community that gets it. Lean on the staff who are there to help you. We want to find what will keep you coming back to us, not to trick you into something that isn't a fit.

Website: www.wallacedrygoods.com
Instagram: @wallacedrygoods

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

August 1 | Free Spirited Festival by Generation NA / Lafayette, IN
August 5 | Bar Nun x Word Play Social Game Night / NYC
August 15 | The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | The Daily Pour’s Water Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | Bar Nun’s Non-Alc Wine Walk / NYC
September 12 | Dry Hop Fest by Reducaholic / Denver, CO
September 16 | Drinks with Benefits Summit / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

Have an event coming up? Reply to this email and send it my way.

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Beyond the Bar Bottleshop | 📍 Richardson, TX 🇺🇸

Q+A with Reid and Julie Robinson, co-owners of Beyond the Bar.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

A great NA bottle shop is more than just a place to buy NA and functional products, it's a third place to socialize, learn more about viable non-alcoholic options, build community and get into "good trouble.”

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

One of our favorite products is made here locally in Dallas, Cali Sober. We love that they list what to expect on each can whether it's 5mg or 10mg and their Dirty Shirley is delicious! We can barely keep it in stock.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Our advice for potential/new shoppers is to try to support local instead of big box stores if possible. Local shops will have more offerings, be more knowledgeable about the products and truly appreciate your support. Always take photos of products you like so you can remember for the future.

Website: beyondthebar.square.site
Instagram: @beyondthebar.af

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AltBar | 📍 Rochester, NY 🇺🇸

Q+A with Meg and Bob Hartman, co-owners of AltBar.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

This is such a humbling question - I feel like we're trying to figure that out every day, and I hope that we achieve this! For us, our focus is on our values and our community, which we believe the rest will follow if we focus on those. Our values are: impact, inclusion, and appreciation for each person's unique value and humanity. We don't exist without these values, and without our community. I think that the one thing online retailers and big box retailers can't replace is community and the human interaction people get when walking in, and so to me those cannot be emphasized enough.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

There is a local brewery, Twisted Rail, that makes a non-alcoholic NE IPA that is fantastic - we usually have it on tap and I can't get enough of it (I'm probably the reason it kicked most recently, and now have to wait for a few weeks for their next batch!). I also love Two Frays non-alcoholic beers out of Pittsburgh, PA (shout-out to Mel from The Open Road for introducing us to this one!). As you can tell, NA beer is my go-to, but I am constantly blown away at how high quality so many options are these days, from NA wine to NA spirits to NA canned cocktails - it is so encouraging that there is a quality option for any occasion and any taste profile at this point!

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Ask questions! It's new, it's probably new to you, and honestly it still feels kind of new to us! Don't be embarrassed or hesitant to ask questions and give us the opportunity to learn together. I don't have it all figured out, so it's ok that you don't either! And as the space continues to grow and evolve we all have to keep questioning and being open to new stuff.

Website: www.altbarroc.com
Instagram: @instagram.com/altbarroc

Marigold | 📍Minneapolis, MN 🇺🇸

Q+A with Erin Flavin, owner of Marigold.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

The people! The community that shops it! Being able to try the product(s). Product knowledge :)

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Too many!! EdeM Brunette, Saint Heck, Opius.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Let us know you are new to the shop so we can give you the tour:)

Website: https://shopmari.gold
Instagram: @marigoldmn

Secret review, just for paid subscribers 🤫

Bloomhaven in Bellingham, WA: Closing :(

This breaks my heart to write, but friend of ZPN Molly Flynn of Bloomhaven Bottle Shop in Bellingham, WA announced the closing of her shop on socials this week. Please support her and the shop and pick up a bottle or two of some of your faves as Molly and the Bloomhaven team pack their bags.

See you next week as we continue our global trip to meet bottle shops around the world and discover what makes them so great! Along the way we’ll stop for reviews of SKUs and maybe even an event recap or two.

xo,
Laura

Want to make me a Substack Bestseller? Get 19% off (to celebrate my 19 years booze-free) your annual subscription when you upgrade!

New review! Dry Wit - Bruce

Like MURI and Proxies, Dry Wit is a truly unique beverage experience meant for food pairing. This wine occasion alternative is made in Minnesota by Megan Dayton and Peter Schweigert, and offers up three expressions: Pippi, Salinger, and Bruce. What you can likely expect in all three: botanicals, teas, verjus. Per the brand, “We slow-brew whole botanical tisanes (never extracts), build body through upcycled grape juice, and layer complexity by deftly balancing flavor with tannins, acidity, salinity, and carbonation rather than sugar or shortcuts. No added sugar, no fermentation, no residual alcohol.” Bruce’s ingredients: bay tea (water, bay leaves), verjus, cherry juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, CO2. The cherry juice lends Bruce its peach / pink color. One of the most striking flavor callouts is the salinity here, and it balances with the other ingredients beautifully. I didn’t follow the directions for pairing because I had this with some prosciutto and parmesan, but guess what? You get to do what you want when it comes to non-alc. Pair however you like! Dry Wit comes in full sizes and half sizes (they call them “half wits” LOL).

TEST YOUR DRY WIT

Sober Supper Club DC - Thursday, July 30th at 7pm!

Join me at one of my favorite restaurants in North Bethesda, MD — Summer House Santa Monica! $50 gets you appetizers, non-alc cocktails from UNDONE, dinner, gratuity, and a full-size bottle of dealc wine from Nouvie!

GET TIX

The ABCs of NA

With so many terms floating about pertaining to the adult non-alcoholic industry1, I thought it was time for a glossary. What you see below is actually an updated version of a collection of terms I wrote for an event in 2021 — yes, I’ve been doing this for a hot minute. While people were (sober) curious then, they’re chomping at the bit even more now to learn, read, and consume non-alc content and beverages voraciously. This will be a living document and as there are more terms that enter our lexicon, I’ll be sure to make updates.

Thanks for reading! Make sure to comment / restack / tell all your friends, shout from the rooftops, send carrier pigeons, etc. ⚡️

ABV
alcohol by volume; the FDA considers beverages with up to 0.5% ABV to be non-alcoholic

adaptogen
non-toxic, plant-based substance said to increase body's resilience and ability to return to homeostasis

AF
alcohol-free (but also "as f*ck")

alcohol
ethanol, liquid created by fermentation of grains, fruits, or other sugars; toxin; drug

alcohol-free
can be used to describe a state of being; when on labels in the USA, this must mean 0.0% ABV2. In the UK, “alcohol-free” can mean an ABV of 0.05% or less while “low-alcohol” refers to any product with 1.2% ABV or below.3

aperitif
beverage sipped before a meal meant to stimulate the appetite

bitters, alcohol-free 
liquids meant to be used in dashes to add nuanced flavor to drinks, often using vegetable glycerin as a preserving agent (e.g. All the Bitter)

bitters, traditional
liquids meant to be used in dashes to add nuanced flavor to drinks, using alcohol as a preserving agent (e.g. Angostura)

booze-free
sans booze, whether talking about a drink or a lifestyle

booze-free babe
a fabulous babe of any gender who chooses to not drink alcohol

booze-free bar4
a bar without the booze; for some, that’s an oxymoron, but why should it be? a booze-free bar is a social space with delicious hangover-free beverages that enable authentic connection; it can be a brick-and-mortar space or a pop-up event / mobile mixology service.

botanical
of or pertaining to plants (e.g. Tenneyson, (parentheses))

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CBD
cannabidiol, 1 of 113 cannabinoids in cannabis/hemp plants, CBD has been used for pain relief and anti-anxiety purposes5

dry
term for non-alcoholic or without alcohol; can be used to describe beverages or state of being

Dry January
a movement that started in the UK in 2011 by a woman named Emily Robinson who was running a marathon and wanted to challenge herself to a month off the sauce; British non-profit Alcohol Change UK turned the challenge into something others could opt into, and it soon went viral. Millions of people worldwide participated in the full Dry January (or partial, with “damp”).

FDA
U.S. Food and Drug Administration6 

garnish
fresh/dried herbs or fruits used to decorate a drink

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

August 1 | Free Spirited Festival by Generation NA / Lafayette, IN
August 15 | The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | The Daily Pour’s Water Choice Awards / NYC
September 12 | Dry Hop Fest / Denver, CO
September 16 | Drinks with Benefits Summit / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

ginger beer 
a spicier, more ginger-forward version of ginger ale; not beer

glassware
from highballs and wine glasses to beer steins and coupes, these are sexy receptacles to make your (booze-free) bevs pop

infused
referring to a beverage infused with THC

kombucha
fermented tea beverages; usually at 0.5% ABV or lower

low and no / no and low
another term for beverage movement comprised of low and no alcohol

mental health
emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing

mindful drinking
related to sober curiosity; refers to a wellness-focused and proactive, rather than reactive, way to track alcohol consumption7

mocktail
non-alcoholic cocktail; some call the new "mocktail” a non-alc cocktail or ready-to-drink (RTD) that doesn’t use NA spirits; can alternatively be called alcohol free/spirit free/zero proof/NA cocktail

near beer
non-alcoholic brew or malted beverage containing up to 0.5% ABV (e.g. Athletic Brewing, Partake Brewing, Mash Gang)

non-alcoholic (NA) / non-alc
a beverage considered as such by the FDA when ABV is lower than 0.5% ABV; also a term for the wider movement of adult non-alcoholic beverage culture

non-alcoholic bottle shop8
born out of the pandemic and an answer to “what to drink when you’re not drinking,”a type of specialty retail space that sells a wide variety of adult NA brands; akin to a “liquor store” sans the booze; can be a brick-and-mortar space or an e-commerce site (e.g. Spirited Away, Boisson, The New Bar, The Zero Proof, The Open Road)

nootropic
substance added to bevs claiming to improve cognitive function (e.g. caffeine); can sometimes have adverse reaction w/certain medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

postbiotics
the waste products produced when probiotics chomp on prebiotics; these can be beneficial for the gut and can help reduce inflammation

prebiotics
plant fibers that feed the good bacteria in gut microbiome (e.g. beverages like Olipop, wildwonder, Mocktail Club, poppi)

probiotics
living strains of bacteria that add to the population of good bacteria in gut microbiome

Prohibition
nationwide constitutional ban on the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages from 1920 to 1933; influenced by Temperance movement

recovery
a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential (SAMHSA9)

RTD
ready to drink; typically a canned or bottled beverage

shrub
a reduction used in cocktails made of fruit, herbs, vinegar, sugar; can contain probiotics (e.g. from apple cider vinegar)

sober
the opposite of "drunk," sober is also a term many non-drinkers use to describe themselves; sober can be related to recovery but is not mutually exclusive

sober curious
term coined by Ruby Warrington in 2015; being intentional, curious, mindful about reasons why we drink; can result in trying on sobriety for a period of time (e.g. Dry January, a whole year, life, etc.)

sobriety spectrum
all the reasons someone might not choose to drink for the night or the rest of their lives; designated drivers, abstainers for medical/religious reasons; straight edge/non-drinkers; sober curious; health-conscious; in recovery

spanking
process of slapping herbs on hand to release oils/aromas…I swear, it’s true

spirit-free
another term for zero-proof or alcohol-free

syrups
viscous liquids made from dissolving of sugars; added to beverages for flavor

Temperance
movement started in early 1900s resulting in Prohibition; members believed alcohol was morally wrong10

terpene
compound responsible for the way plants smell; abundant in cannabis sativa plant

THC
tetrahydrocannabinol, the compound in the cannabis sativa plant with psychoactive properties; used in many non-alc beverage brands as an alcohol alternative

tonic
a beverage traditionally used to help restore, tone and invigorate systems in the body or to promote general health and well-being11; can also refer to tonic water

zero proof
umbrella descriptor for non-alcoholic or the wider movement (see: Zero Proof Nation, The Zero Proof); when used on menus or on product labels, strongly suggested to truly be 0.0% ABV (although can still contain 0 - 0.5% ABV)

ZPN12
Zero Proof Nation, the world’s foremost non-alcoholic resource hub containing the one and only Global Map of NA

Chime in on what kind of content YOU want to see most ⤵️

Want to see a combination of all of the above? Reply to this email with your thoughts. I will read every response!

If you’re new here, check out last week’s reviews ⤵️

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

July 19 - 24 | Tales of the Cocktail / New Orleans, LA
August 1 | Free Spirited Festival by Generation NA / Lafayette, IN
August 15 | The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | The Daily Pour’s Water Choice Awards / NYC
September 12 | Dry Hop Fest / Denver, CO
September 16 | Drinks with Benefits Summit / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

Have an event coming up? Reply to this email and send it my way.

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Go exploring on the Zero Proof Nation Global Map, now trusted by over half a million people worldwide.

⚡️ Keep ZPN the NPR of NA ⚡️

BUY ME A COFFEE OR 20

See you next week!
xo,
Laura

On July 14, 2007, I said those words again — only this time, they wound their way down into a slot inside me and clicked into place. This time, they took. I haven’t intentionally had a sip of alcohol since then.

A quick by the numbers:

6: Short but severe years of binge drinking alcohol (2001-2007). I developed what we now know is a moderate alcohol use disorder, but language for which didn’t exist at the time.

2: Hospitalizations for alcohol poisoning / monitoring – one in 2005 in Charlottesville, VA and one in 2007 in New York City; the latter was my rock bottom wake-up call.

7/14/07: The day I awoke from being passed out / blacked out in a hospital bed in New York City…

19: …Years since I’d decided enough was enough. I chose sobriety from alcohol over inebriation that day, and I’ve made that same choice every day since.

So in honor of today’s momentous occasion, get 19% off your annual subscription to Zero Proof Nation by Laura when you sign up today — or upgrade your free sub. Good for the month of DRY JULY only.

Trust me, I’ve seen a lot in my 19 years as a booze-free badass.

Not too long ago, there wasn’t the new sobriety that exists today. People thought in very black and white terms: it was either you could handle your booze and thus, were normal – or you couldn’t handle your liquor and were an alcoholic. A handful of Quit Lit memoirs existed then (but that term hadn’t been born yet). There weren’t podcasts, blogs, and social media handles galore devoted to getting sober / soberish in a way that worked for YOU. There really weren’t online or in-person programs, recovery coaches, or retreats that weren’t somehow affiliated with the 12 steps. And there certainly wasn’t this boom (and boon) of non-alcoholic beverage culture we’re in now (and literally the reason you’re reading my words).

And now, some beverage reviews. ⤵️

MAGNETiC Beverage - Sweet Sarsaparilla

This infused seltzer (5mg THC) is a time travel portal to the 1950s. Eau de olde time soda shoppe. I can’t help thinking about The Cracker Barrel’s root beer 10 cent stick candy. Or Archie Comics’ Pop Tate’s. Root beer is just one of those aromas and flavors that is coded with vintage and retro, pure nostalgia. Love the amount of carbonation (if you know me, the more bubbles the better!). I definitely felt relaxed and a little silly about 30 minutes after finishing the drink; all effects wore off for me within an hour or two. Highly (pun intended) recommend if you’re looking for a tasty infused seltzer that’ll send you to 1955 in a Delorean. Just have to hit 88 mph…!

Little Saints - Hugo Spritz

Look, I’ve never had a Hugo Spritz before, so there’s no baseline for me. But per the Internet, you get one by combining Prosecco 🥂, elderflower liqueur, lime, mint, and club soda. On first sip of Little Saints’ latest, I’m getting lime, a touch of mint, and definitely something delicately floral. Plus there’s Lion’s Mane and Reishi and Damiana, and I believe if I drink one of these every day, I may get all those benefits (focus and clarity for the former, love and expansion for the latter). I’m not being sarcastic, at all! To get the full benefits of functional beverages, you have to drink them regularly. And while I feel the same post-cocktail as I did pre, I’m definitely happier, because I just had a tasty treat for only 5 cals.

Cheeky Cocktails - Lime Tonic

Meet Cheeky Cocktails’ most recent launch: a functional lime tonic, perfect on its or as a mixer with full proof or no proof spirits. Crafted by fitness-minded bartenders, this lower in sugar (10mg) / higher in prebiotic fiber (4mg) mixer is no fuss and all citrus. Tart yet sweet, I’m currently enjoying this one on the rocks with dehydrated lime as my garnish. Sometimes, simplicity wins. Lovely.

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

July 19 - 24 | Tales of the Cocktail / New Orleans, LA
August 1 | Free Spirited Festival by Generation NA / Lafayette, IN
August 15 | The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | The Daily Pour’s Water Choice Awards / NYC
September 12 | Dry Hop Fest / Denver, CO
September 16 | Drinks with Benefits Summit / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

Have an event coming up? Reply to this email and send it my way.

⚡️ Subscribe / upgrade.
You know you wanna. ⚡️

Subscribe now

Go exploring on the Zero Proof Nation Global Map, now trusted by over half a million people worldwide.

GO EXPLORING! ⚡️

Where are all my fellow ADHD baddies? Fellow Substacker has a fantastic new podcast called Sunsets Are the New Happy Hour where she talks about neuroscience, nervous system regulation, and alcohol-free living. She’s even got a whole series on ADHD and emotional regulation.

⚡️ Keep ZPN the NPR of NA ⚡️

BUY ME A COFFEE OR 20

See you next week! Share in the comments what you’d most like to see: more bottle shop roundups, destination guides, beverage reviews, etc.

xo,
Laura

If you’ve been keeping track, today’s post is PART 5 of What Makes a Great NA Bottle / Functional Bev Shop? But if you’re just discovering Zero Proof Nation by Laura on Substack for the first time, here’s the gist: I talked to non-alc bottle shop owners all over the world and asked them three questions: 1) What makes a great non-alc / functional bev bottle shop; 2) What are some of your faves of the moment?; and 3) What’s your #1 tip for sober curious shoppers?

From Oregon to the UK, here’s what they had to say. ⤵️

xoxo,
Laura

Hummingbird Heart | 📍 Ashland, OR 🇺🇸

Q+A with Anna Blazevich, owner of Hummingbird Heart (and SoulHum Elixirs).

What makes a great non-alc (NA) / functional bev bottle shop?

I personally think what makes a great NA / function bev shop is the people behind the shop. Being curious about every single person that walks through their doors and taking the time to acknowledge them and offer them help. Maybe that is answering questions but for us, offering samples is a great way to not just connect over product but to really be able to dive into WHY the customer is there which opens up the opportunity for a deeper connection. Sobriety, and/or just choosing not to drink alcohol, is truly unique for everyone and connecting with a person is a wonderful way to support them on their own journey. It can be a deep conversation or explaining how to use ingredients - it takes it own form when we take the time to connect with the human walking through our doors.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Honestly, and not just because it is mine, but Soul Hum Elixirs has been my favorite brand of the moment [editor’s note: you’ve heard me rave about Uplift; it’s truly one of the best liquids I’ve ever tasted!]. It is really versatile so it has been fun creating various NA cocktails and sharing them with customers. I am also obsessed with High Street Tonics [also a beverage brand and a shop] - they are beautiful tonics that enhance most beverages but can also be mixed with sparkling water or tonics waters to create fun, functional options.

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

Be willing to share what you are looking for. Maybe you are trying to replace your nightly whiskey, or what is something you miss about drinking, if you did drink? The more you share with us, the better we can make suggestions and have some fun figuring out how to make sure you walk out with options that will work for you.

Website: www.hummingbirdheartco.com
Instagram: @hummingbirdheartco

Zero Proof Nation is looking for Q3 (July, Aug., Sept.) and Q4 (Oct., Nov., Dec.) sponsors! You’re not only sponsoring content here on Substack, but you’d be helping keep the most comprehensive global map devoted to NA / AF running, which will hit half a million worldwide views this week! Interested? Reply to this email to learn more. ⚡️

NØLO | 📍 Asheville, NC 🇺🇸

Q+A with JP & Jen Phillips, co-owners of NØLO

What makes a great non-alc (NA) / functional bev bottle shop?

We think a couple of things make a great NA bottle shop. It’s a powerful “statement” to have a huge selection. One of our favorite parts of NOLO is seeing people blown away by the number of NA options there are today. But, more importantly, we think the key is being “staffed” by educated and engaging people who are willing/able to help guide folks towards finding a drink that they love.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Our favorite right now might be Roots Divino. Their two vermouth aperitifs are fantastically complex and refined…and always in our refrigerator!

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

Best advice for a new shopper is to find a way to engage with the bottle shop owner or employee. We hear too many people say some version of “I tried one NA drink once and I didn’t like it”. But if you can find a bottle shop that allows you to try several different things, or at least ask specific questions, you’ll likely find something that works for you.

Website: https://heynolo.com
Instagram: @hey_nolo

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

July 11 | High & Dry Festival by Herban Flow / St. Petersburg, FL
July 19 - 24 | Tales of the Cocktail / New Orleans, LA
August 1 | Free Spirited Festival by Generation NA / Lafayette, IN
August 15 | The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards / NYC
August 16 | The Daily Pour’s Water Choice Awards / NYC
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour / NYC
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience / Los Angeles, CA
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo / Miami, FL

Have an event coming up? Reply to this email and send it my way.

⚡️ You know you wanna. ⚡️

Subscribe now

Burden of Proof | 📍 S. Pasadena, CA 🇺🇸

Q+A with Obreanna McReynolds and Dean Peterson, co-owners of Burden of Proof

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

The best NA bottle shops feel like any other great shop: fun, welcoming, and full of things you’re excited to try. Everything just happens to be non-alcoholic. What makes this category special is that it still feels personal. We get to pour tastes, talk to people about why they’re drinking less, share our favorites, and help people figure out what they actually like without making it feel intimidating or restrictive. The best shops make people feel curious and excited, not like they’re missing out on something.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

People are sleeping on Golden State Cider's Dry & Mighty! From Obreanna's hometown of Sebastopol, CA, this dry, alcohol-removed cider hits the spot for the non-beer drinkers out there. It's wildly convincing, and something customers come back for again and again.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Stay open minded. If you've tried an NA wine or spirit in the past and didn't love it, try again. The category and production methods are evolving so quickly that there’s always new, better products coming to market. Remember that this category is still incredibly young. A great example of this is Free Spirits’ Bourbon - they recently reformulated and it went from fine but needs to be mixed, to incredible neat, with a real burn.

Website: https://burdenofproofna.com
Instagram: @burdenofproofna

⚡️ Keep ZPN the NPR of NA ⚡️

BUY ME A COFFEE

Club Soda | 📍 London, UK 🇬🇧

Q+A with Laura Willoughby, co-founder of Club Soda1

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

(If aimed at retailers) ⤵️

This is still a new category so providing an opportunity for the consumer to try before they buy makes your space both a destination and a source of education for the trade. But don’t go it alone, get the brands to support your sampling - after all, liquid on lips is important to them too - so see the sampling program as a collaboration with the brands and find ways to monetize it to support your overall ambitions as well as giving the consumer a great time.

If aimed at consumers ⤵️

Being able to try before you buy is something you will get from an indie bottle shop that a supermarket could never do. So look out for tasting events and sampling days. Ultimately a great NA bottle shop has your back - their goal is to find the right drink for you - the staff expertise is what makes a specialist shop worth going to. A lovingly curated collection will also provide you with drinks you can’t find anywhere else.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Saicho Osmanthus, Moderato Pinot Noir, and Oddbird Spumante.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Take your time and ask the staff all the questions you have - the beauty of a specialist shop is they care about you finding the right drink - the more information you share about what you are looking for the better the experience for you…and them!

Website: www.joinclubsoda.com
Instagram: @joinclubsoda

Plant Magic Market | 📍Washington, DC 🇺🇸

Q+A with Anahata Sabat, owner of Plant Magic Market

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

When I opened my shop in 2025, the world looked different. The surgeon general just released a statement that alcohol consumption leads to cancer. My shop was flooded with customers who had stopped drinking completely or were sober curious. Shortly after, big-box stores like Target, Whole Foods and Total Wine started increasing their variety of NA selections. What sets a bottle shop apart from the bigger shops is the education and personalized experience. My customers regularly comment on how helpful my explanations and suggestions are.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

I am loving the new Dragon Fruit Martini from Aplos

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

One of the first questions I ask the customer when they say "What do you suggest?" - How do you want to feel? This is what I love about my shop, everything is functional. We go beyond being just NA and focus on functional, adaptogenic beverages. Not only do we focus on flavor profiles, but the ingredients matter. The beverages are packed with super powered plants that give you a feeling. When the new shopper has a feeling they are trying to achieve, we can make a recommendation.

Instagram: @sipplantmagic

See you next week as we continue our trip to meet bottle shops around the world and discover what makes them so great!

xo,
Laura

You probably also know that I’m a BIG travel fan, and you might also know that a few years ago, I went on a cross-country road trip — visiting non-alcoholic bottle shops and national parks (Editor’s note: make sure you follow if you’re into these gorgeous places) along the way. This book/drink/national park flight is inspired by that trip, the gorgeous NA drinks that continue to push the boundaries of innovation, the joy of reading, and the beauty in our own backyards.

Elle here! I’ve been a Zero Proof Nation fangirl right back! I love how Laura’s work never makes going alcohol-free feel like a deprivation. Instead, she’s built a whole world around it, full of discovery, joy, and genuinely delicious things.

It turns out, we have a lot in common. My whole thing is building a rich reading life without having to buy a single book. Hers is building a rich drinking life without a single drop of alcohol. What we have in common is that we are both a little obsessed with the idea that you don’t have to give anything up to have it all. Add in a shared love of travel and a soft spot for America’s national parks, and a post like this was basically inevitable.

Acadia National Park (Maine)

Rocky beaches, glaciers, lakes, mountains, islands, and lowbush blueberries. Take a hike and work up an appetite for a lobster roll sandwich. Dessert? Those blueberries, naturally.

Sip: All That Razz by 1820 Brewing

Maine’s own non-alc brewery, 1820 Brewing, delivers on a beautiful fruited/sour brew with All That Razz. Bright raspberry and earthy malts pair beautifully with the captivating panorama that Acadia delivers.

Tasting notes: tart, malty, bubbly, #madeinMaine vibes, raspberries

Read: The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters

A Mi’kmaq family travels from Nova Scotia to the Maine blueberry barrens every summer until the youngest daughter vanishes from the edge of a field. It carries the same rugged, coastal melancholy as Acadia: beautiful, haunted, and impossible to shake.

Meet happie 🍄!

It’s been great having happie as my Substack sponsor the past two months. Their new functional mushroom line, Fungi Fusion, is stacked to the hilt with goodies: 900mg Lion’s Mane, 700mg Cordyceps, 400mg Reishi, 230mg Magnesium, and 90mg Calcium. And in case you like to vibe with a little THC, don’t miss their original line of infused beverages. With happie, there’s something for everyone.

Want to try happie’s signature THC line or their Fungi Fusion line? Use ZPN15 at checkout for a generous 15% off your order!

GET HAPPIE

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Everglades National Park (Florida)

The land is all coastal mangroves, sawgrass marshes, and pine flatwoods at Everglades. Stay alert because you might just see a leatherback turtle, Florida panther, or West Indian manatee. But explorers beware — there are gators out there, and they’re hungry.

Sip: St. Ember by Little Saints

Miami-based Little Saints is one of the most mystical functional NA brands out on the market. If you ever see founder Megan Klein out and about, chances are she’s wearing full-on plant and mushroom regalia. St. Ember marries functional mushrooms (lion’s mane, cordyceps) with the spiciness of ginger and cardamom, making for a perfect NA Paloma or Margarita with a side of magical vibes.

Tasting notes: Palo Santo, ginger, cardamom, magic

Read: The Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean

The true story of a man who stole rare ghost orchids from a Florida swamp, and the obsession that pulled Orlean after him. It’s as lush, strange, and subtropical as the Everglades themselves.

Explore the Global Map of NA! 🗺️

This beautiful, constantly updated map shows you (almost) all of the world’s non-alc bottle shops (brick and mortar and e-commerce), booze-free bars (brick and mortar and pop-up), NA-friendly shops, NA-forward hospitality, and AF travel services.

Very soon this map will reach 500K (HALF A MILLION!) views.

TAKE A TRIP ⚡️

Joshua Tree National Park (California)

U2 isn’t the only one inspired by Joshua Tree. The tree got its name thanks to the 19th-century Mormon settlers who thought the eponymous tree looked like the prophet Joshua with his arms outstretched. Larger than the state of Rhode Island, the park’s 429,690 acres are filled with desert wilderness and gorgeous sunsets. You’ll find what you’re looking for here.

Sip: Desert Margarita by Parch

Inspired by the botanicals of the southwest Sonoran Desert, this bright orange-y lime margarita from functional darling Parch delivers on keeping you cool in the desert. It’s the perfect thirst quencher to bring with you to take in the gorgeous Joshua trees. Just remember: leave no trace.

Tasting notes: sweet orange, lime, tamarind, desert sunsets

Read: Take Me With You by Steven Rowley

A husband vanishes into the night sky over the desert, and the man he left behind has to reckon with love, loss, and what’s actually real. It’s as surreal and cosmic as a night under Joshua Tree’s stars.

⚡️ Keep ZPN the NPR of NA ⚡️

BUY ME A COFFEE

Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)

The very first national park in the USA, Yellowstone is also believed to be the world’s first designated protected land. Spanning 2,219,789 acres, you’re likely to see not only gorgeous forests and volcanic lakes but also close to 60 species of animals, including wolves, coyotes, cougars, bears, goats, sheep, deer, moose, and, of course, bison. And if you look closely enough, you’ll find Yogi Bear and Boo Boo sharing a picnic lunch.

Sip: The Pathfinder Hemp & Root Spirit

There’s something so mystical, eerie, and transcendent about Yellowstone. The moment I saw those infamous deep blue lagoons bubbling over with seismic activity, I surely thought I was in a Dr. Seuss book. There’s only one beverage that can match this park’s vibes: The Pathfinder Hemp & Root Spirit. This dreamy amaro-like spirit is dark, luxuriously bittersweet, and almost medicinal. It’ll open your third eye.

Tasting notes: wormwood, ginger, orange peel, Ouija boards

Read: American Buffalo by Steven Rinella

Part adventure, part history, Rinella’s hunt for a wild buffalo becomes a meditation on the animal that shaped America and was nearly wiped off the map. Yellowstone is one of the last places bison still roam wild, which makes it the perfect lens for the park’s prehistoric pull. Yes, bison and buffalo are different! But they are similar enough that I feel this recommendation works :)

Read the full post via , and make sure you subscribe to her incredible newsletter while you’re at it. You won’t regret this.

Elle Reads Library Books

Pour a Drink & Pack a Book: A Tour of America’s National Parks

Elle here! I’ve been a Zero Proof Nation fangirl since joining Substack, so I’m thrilled to be able to bring you this collab. I love how Laura’s work never makes going alcohol-free feel like a deprivation. Instead, she’s built a whole world around it, full of discovery, joy, and genuinely delicious things…

Read more

3 months ago · 63 likes · 39 comments · Elle Reads Library Books and Laura Silverman

Zero Proof Choice Awards — ONE MORE DAY!

The “Incredibles” of the non-alcoholic world are ready to judge your brand. Led by , the 2026 Zero Proof Choice Awards panel features the ultimate industry experts (like Derek and yours truly!). Get genuine, expert feedback and the ultimate industry benchmark.

Entries close at the end of June. Don’t delay, enter today!

ENTER TODAY!

🌴 Miami Beach Food & Bev Expo - 10/28-29

Hang out with me at The Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo, designed with CPG entrepreneurs in mind. Some non-alc brands confirmed: myce, GoddessJUNO, BLU, Solubrae1, and you? 🌴 🌴 🌴 🌴

LEARN MORE HERE 🌴

Which national park / book / NA drink combo do you most want to try? ⤵️

xo,
Laura

(For funsies, I recorded this intro as a voiceover for you ^).

Boy do I have an exciting set up of updates for you. Where to begin?

1. Last night I joined fellow drinks writer for a gorgeous Michelin-starred tasting menu at Xiquet in Glover Park, DC. The 14 course experience practically made me cry tears of ecstasy, and the icing on the cake was how many NA wine options they had to offer! French Bloom sparkling brut! Lyre’s new new Rosé Classico! And my favorite of the evening, Missing Thorn’s rosé.

2. I teamed up with fellow Substack writer on an epic national park drink / book pairing experience. Elle is an American expat living in Brazil who has read over 3,000 books (OMG WHUTT) and most of them have been library books! This was maybe some of the most fun I’ve had writing in a while (besides literally every time I log into my June writing workshop with ).

   Elle Reads Library Books

   Pour a Drink & Pack a Book: A Tour of America’s National Parks

   Elle here! I’ve been a Zero Proof Nation fangirl since joining Substack, so I’m thrilled to be able to bring you this collab. I love how Laura’s work never makes going alcohol-free feel like a deprivation. Instead, she’s built a whole world around it, full of discovery, joy, and genuinely delicious things…

   Read more

   3 months ago · 46 likes · 32 comments · Elle Reads Library Books and Laura Silverman

3. For all you new readers, scroll down to read one of my all-time most popular posts: The ABCs of NA. Think of this as the ultimate NA glossary.

4. Join me and June ZPN sponsor happie founder on Monday for a Substack live (5pm EST / 4pm Central / 2pm PST)!

5. LET’S GOOOOOOOOO. TGIF, baby.

6. PS: Seeking newsletter sponsorships for Q3 (July - September). Are you a non-alc brand? Hotel? Cruise line? Event series? Fellow writer? Want to patron the non-alc arts and sponsor Zero Proof Nation by Laura? Reply to this email and let’s discuss, like they do on Cawfee Tawk.

   

The ABCs of NA

With so many terms floating about pertaining to the adult non-alcoholic industry1, I thought it was time for a glossary. What you see below is actually an updated version of a collection of terms I wrote for an event in 2021 — yes, I’ve been doing this for a hot minute. While people were (sober) curious then, they’re chomping at the bit even more now to learn, read, and consume non-alc content and beverages voraciously. This will be a living document and as there are more terms that enter our lexicon, I’ll be sure to make updates.

Thanks for reading! Make sure to comment / restack / tell all your friends, shout from the rooftops, send carrier pigeons, etc.

Am I missing any terms you’d like to see in the next version? ⚡️

Leave a comment

ABV
alcohol by volume; the FDA considers beverages with up to 0.5% ABV to be non-alcoholic

adaptogen
non-toxic, plant-based substance said to increase body's resilience and ability to return to homeostasis

AF
alcohol-free (but also "as f*ck")

alcohol
ethanol, liquid created by fermentation of grains, fruits, or other sugars; toxin; drug

alcohol-free
can be used to describe a state of being; when on labels in the USA, this must mean 0.0% ABV2. In the UK, “alcohol-free” can mean an ABV of 0.05% or less while “low-alcohol” refers to any product with 1.2% ABV or below.3

aperitif
beverage sipped before a meal meant to stimulate the appetite

bitters, alcohol-free 
liquids meant to be used in dashes to add nuanced flavor to drinks, often using vegetable glycerin as a preserving agent (e.g. All the Bitter — try our coffee cherry collab bitter while you’re at it!)

bitters, traditional
liquids meant to be used in dashes to add nuanced flavor to drinks, using alcohol as a preserving agent (e.g. Angostura)

booze-free
sans booze, whether talking about a drink or a lifestyle

booze-free babe
a fabulous babe of any gender who chooses to not drink alcohol

booze-free bar4
a bar without the booze; for some, that’s an oxymoron, but why should it be? a booze-free bar is a social space with delicious hangover-free beverages that enable authentic connection; it can be a brick-and-mortar space (e.g. Sans Bar) or a pop-up event / mobile mixology service (e.g. Free Life).

botanical
of or pertaining to plants (e.g. Tenneyson, (parentheses))

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California sober
more commonly known as “cali sober,” a lifestyle where alcohol and harder drugs are abstained from; use of cannabis is allowed.

CBD
cannabidiol, 1 of 113 cannabinoids in cannabis/hemp plants, CBD has been used for pain relief and anti-anxiety purposes5

dealcoholization
the process by which alcohol is removed from a liquid; usually non-alc beers and wines go through the dealc process. There are various types of dealcoholization, some of which are vacuum distillation (using spinning cone columns), arrested fermentation, and reverse osmosis.

dry
term for non-alcoholic or without alcohol; can be used to describe beverages or state of being

Dry January
a movement that started in the UK in 2011 by a woman named Emily Robinson who was running a marathon and wanted to challenge herself to a month off the sauce; British non-profit Alcohol Change UK turned the challenge into something others could opt into, and it soon went viral. Millions of people worldwide participated in the full Dry January (or partial, with “damp”).

FDA
U.S. Food and Drug Administration6 

fermentation
metabolic process where yeast and other bacteria convert sugars present in a liquid into alcohol

functional beverage
made with adaptogens (to bring the body back to homeostasis), nootropics (to stimulate the brain), or other ingredients that have, well, a specific function, this type of beverage claims to serve a need. Hot take: you won’t feel much after just one beverage. To get the most results, you’ll have to drink these beverages consistently to feel results. As always, consult with your doc if you have any questions and/or if you take any meds like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

functional mushroom
type of non-intoxicating edible mushroom that has a purpose; e.g. lion’s mane (known to support brain health, immune system, inflammation), cordyceps (known to boost energy, improve athletic performance, enhance immune function), chaga (known to support immune function, lower inflammation, manage cholesterol, improve blood sugar) turkey tail (known to support immune function and gut processes), etc. Little Saints is a non-alc brand that uses functional mushrooms.

garnish
fresh/dried herbs or fruits used to decorate a drink

ginger beer 
a spicier, more ginger-forward version of ginger ale; not beer

glassware
from highballs and wine glasses to beer steins and coupes, these are sexy receptacles to make your (booze-free) bevs pop

Global Map of NA
world map featuring non-alc bottle shops (brick-and-mortar and e-commerce), booze-free bars (brick-and-mortar and pop-ups), NA-friendly retail (shops not dedicated to NA but with substantial amount of options), and NA-forward hospitality (like Xiquet, with all those NA wines!).

Click the map below to see what almost half a million people have been buzzing about.

happie
non-alc brand and ZPN sponsor this month with a line of infused seltzers and functional mushroom beverages

infused
referring to a beverage infused with THC

kombucha
fermented tea beverages; usually at 0.5% ABV or lower

low and no / no and low
another term for beverage movement comprised of low and no alcohol

mental health
emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing

mindful drinking
related to sober curiosity; refers to a wellness-focused and proactive, rather than reactive, way to track alcohol consumption7

mocktail
non-alcoholic cocktail; some call the new "mocktail” a non-alc cocktail or ready-to-drink (RTD) that doesn’t use NA spirits; can alternatively be called alcohol free/spirit free/zero proof/NA cocktail

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near beer
non-alcoholic brew or malted beverage containing up to 0.5% ABV (e.g. Athletic Brewing, Partake Brewing, Mash Gang)

non-alcoholic (NA) / non-alc
a beverage considered as such by the FDA when ABV is lower than 0.5% ABV; also a term for the wider movement of adult non-alcoholic beverage culture

non-alcoholic bottle shop8
born out of the pandemic and an answer to “what to drink when you’re not drinking,”a type of specialty retail space that sells a wide variety of adult NA brands; akin to a “liquor store” sans the booze; can be a brick-and-mortar space (Generation NA, Killjoy, Sechey, Soberish, The Open Road) or a dedicated e-commerce site (e.g. Boisson,The Zero Proof). See the series below for interviews with global non-alc bottle shop owners.

nootropic
substance added to bevs claiming to improve cognitive function (e.g. caffeine); can sometimes have adverse reaction w/certain medications like SSRIs or MAOIs

postbiotics
the waste products produced when probiotics chomp on prebiotics; these can be beneficial for the gut and can help reduce inflammation

prebiotics
plant fibers that feed the good bacteria in gut microbiome (e.g. beverages like Olipop, wildwonder, Mocktail Club, poppi)

probiotics
living strains of bacteria that add to the population of good bacteria in gut microbiome

Prohibition
nationwide constitutional ban on the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages from 1920 to 1933; influenced by Temperance movement

recovery
a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential (SAMHSA9)

RTD
ready to drink; typically a canned or bottled beverage

shrub
a reduction used in cocktails made of fruit, herbs, vinegar, sugar; can contain probiotics (e.g. from apple cider vinegar)

sober
the opposite of "drunk," sober is also a term many non-drinkers use to describe themselves; sober can be related to recovery but is not mutually exclusive

sober curious
term coined by Ruby Warrington in 2015; being intentional, curious, mindful about reasons why we drink; can result in trying on sobriety for a period of time (e.g. Dry January, a whole year, life, etc.)

sobriety spectrum
all the reasons someone might not choose to drink for the night or the rest of their lives; designated drivers, abstainers for medical/religious reasons; straight edge/non-drinkers; sober curious; health-conscious; in recovery

spanking
process of slapping herbs on hand to release oils/aromas…I swear, it’s true

spirit-free
another term for zero-proof or alcohol-free

syrups
viscous liquids made from dissolving of sugars; added to beverages for flavor

Temperance
movement started in early 1900s resulting in Prohibition; members believed alcohol was morally wrong10

terpene
compound responsible for the way plants smell; abundant in cannabis sativa plant

THC
tetrahydrocannabinol, the compound in the cannabis sativa plant with psychoactive properties; used in many non-alc beverage brands as an alcohol alternative

tonic
a beverage traditionally used to help restore, tone and invigorate systems in the body or to promote general health and well-being11; can also refer to tonic water

zero proof
umbrella descriptor for non-alcoholic or the wider movement (see: Zero Proof Nation, The Zero Proof); when used on menus or on product labels, strongly suggested to truly be 0.0% ABV (although can still contain 0 - 0.5% ABV)

ZPN12
Zero Proof Nation, the world’s foremost non-alcoholic resource hub containing the one and only Global Map of NA

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Before we dive in to the meat of today’s post, can I just say how excited I am about an upcoming piece I’m collabing with fellow Substack writer on? We’re pairing national parks of the USA with book flights (Elle) and #nonalc drink flights (me). If you’re a writer on Substack, I highly encourage collaborations with other writers!

So, if you’ve been keeping track, today’s post is part IV of What makes a great NA bottle shop? But if you’re just discovering Zero Proof Nation here on Substack for the first time, here’s the gist: I talked to non-alc bottle shop owners all over the world and asked them three questions: 1) What makes a great non-alc bottle shop; 2) What are some of your faves?; and 3) #1 tip for sober curious shoppers?

From France to Seattle, here’s what they had to say. ⤵️

xoxo,
Laura

PS: I went to a friend’s birthday party in downtown DC the other night and when people asked me what I did…

But first, meet happie 🍄

Thank you to our sponsor this month, happie! Whether you’re into functional mushrooms or “plant-based” / infused bevvies, happie has something to make everyone happy!

Fungi Fusion, is stacked to the hilt with goodies: 900mg Lion’s Mane, 700mg Cordyceps, 400mg Reishi, 230mg Magnesium, and 90mg Calcium. Flavors include: Blue Raspberry, Mango Mimosa, Watermelon.

happie THC (original line) has 🌿 5mg hemp-derived Delta-9 THC + 5mg CBD per can (1:1 ratio). Flavors include: Sublime, Grateful Grape, Cheery Cherry, Groovy Grapefruit.

GET HAPPIE

While we’re on the topic, I’m looking for Q3 (July, Aug., Sept.) and Q4 (Oct., Nov., Dec.) sponsors! You’re not only sponsoring content here on Substack, but you’d be helping keep the global map engine running. Interested? Reply to this email to learn more. Let’s chat! ⚡️

🗓️ Upcoming events in NA

Bar Convent Brooklyn just ended and BevNET Live is on Day 2. Here are some other consumer / industry-facing events coming up this summer / fall:

June 30 | Dry Social Networking by Bar Nun Life
July 11 | High & Dry Festival by Herban Flow
July 19 - 24 | Tales of the Cocktail
August 1 | Free Spirited Festival by Generation NA
September 17 | Drinks with Benefits by The Daily Pour
October 10 | Mindful Life Experience
October 28 - 29 | Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo

Have an event coming up? Reply to this email and send it my way.

La Cave Paralèlle | 📍 France 🇫🇷 (multiple locations)

Q+A with Jérôme Cuny, owner of La Cave Parallèle.

What makes a great NA / functional bev bottle shop?

1. Selection, above all else. Just like a good traditional wine merchant, excellence begins with a rigorous selection process: choosing drinks that have a genuine identity, a history and a sense of “terroir”. Not just ‘alcohol-free’.
   

2. Expertise and advice. Customers who walk through our doors are looking to be guided, surprised and educated. Knowledge of producers, processes (fermentation, distillation, maceration, etc.) and food and drink pairings: this is what lends credibility to our approach and builds customer loyalty.
   

3. Establishing non-alcoholic drinks as a positive choice. We must change the consumer’s perspective: not selling an absence (of alcohol), but a presence of complexity, pleasure, and care taken in what we drink. We are advocates of taste and shared enjoyment.
   

4. A wide range is essential. Not just a few options, but a genuine choice, on a par with what you’d find in any traditional wine shop. Covering every occasion, every style and every budget. The customer should never find themselves having to settle for ‘whatever’s available’ for lack of anything better. They must be able to choose, compare and deliberate. It is this freedom of choice that turns a visit into an experience, and an occasional buyer into a loyal customer.
   

5. The in-store experience. The atmosphere, the way the products are displayed, the chance to try everything (or almost everything)… the experience must be memorable.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

There are so many that I couldn’t possibly name just one...after all, you’re talking to an expert who has nearly 600 different bottles in the shop ;)

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

Come on! Just one? You know me better. Three for the price of one!

1. Forget what you think you know. The non-alcoholic drink you tried three years ago no longer exists. The category has exploded in terms of quality and variety. Come with an open mind and let yourself be surprised by what flavour has to offer without alcohol.

2. Expect the same as elsewhere, if not more. An alcohol-free drink is not a second-rate product and has no reason to be mediocre! Demand complexity, variety and attractive bottles. If the selection in front of you seems poor or interchangeable, it’s not the category that’s limited: it’s the shop.

3. Talk about occasions, not restrictions. Don’t say “I don’t drink alcohol”. Say “I’m having a family dinner on Saturday”, “I’m looking for something for drinks with friends”, “I want something complex to accompany a meal”.
   
   IG: @lacaveparalelle| website: www.lacaveparallele.fr

The Open Road | 📍 Pittsburgh, PA 🇺🇸

Q+A with Mel Babitz, owner of The Open Road.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

Knowledgeable staff creating an approachable educational customer experience, and a product selection that covers all the categories without causing too much overwhelming decision fatigue. Offering cans as singles encourages trying more things at a lower barrier to entry. And samples!

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Monday Gin & new hemp-infused gin.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Ask us all the questions! Don't be embarrassed - the entire category is so new.

IG: @openroadbarpgh | website: www.openroadbarpgh.com

Cheeky & Dry | 📍 Seattle, WA 🇺🇸

Q+A with Kirstin Vracko, co-owner of Cheeky & Dry.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

A great non-alcoholic bottle shop starts with taste. Not trends. Not wellness buzzwords. Not beautifully branded sadness in a can.

At Cheeky & Dry, I only bring in products I personally like and would actually drink myself. If I wouldn’t pour it at a dinner party, it doesn’t make the shelf. This category is still new enough that too many people have already had the deeply offensive experience of pouring a $40 bottle of non-alcoholic something directly down the drain after one sip.

That’s why tastings matter so much.

Samples save people money, but more importantly, they build trust. They give customers a chance to discover what they actually like while giving us the opportunity to educate them on how these products work, what makes them special, and how to drink them properly. Some need dilution. Some need bubbles. Some need citrus. Some simply need lower expectations.

And expertise matters just as much as curation. This industry moves too fast and has too much nuance for employees to simply point at shelves and hope for the best. A great bottle shop should have owners and staff who understand the category deeply — the flavors, the producers, the ingredients, the structure, and why products taste sophisticated and interesting.

The entire experience should feel thoughtful, welcoming, a little cheeky, and undeniably chic.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

A product I am absolutely loving at the moment is Casals Spanish Vermouth. It’s layered with citrus rind, olive leaf, a touch of cinnamon, Catalan grapes, and more than twenty Mediterranean botanicals that feel both complex and effortless at the same time.

It has depth, structure, bitterness, brightness — all the things that make Spanish vermouth so appealing. I love it with a splash of bubbles and a citrus twist, or it’s stunning in cocktails. One of my current favorites is Casals mixed with Sylva Orchard and a dash or two of All The Bitter Orange Cardamom bitters, served up in a coupe. An elegant non-alcoholic Manhattan.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

My tip for new non-alcoholic bottle shop shoppers? Adjust your expectations. These drinks are not going to taste exactly like their alcoholic counterparts — they’re their own thing entirely, which turns out to be far more interesting.

Instead of asking, “What tastes exactly like whiskey?” start asking, “What sounds delicious?” The people who end up loving non-alcoholic beverages the most are usually the ones willing to lean into flavor — citrus, spice, bubbles, bitterness, tannins, herbs, smoke, all the things that make a drink feel interesting and sophisticated in the first place.

Also: ask questions and taste everything you can. A good bottle shop should help guide you toward products that actually fit your palate, not just whatever has the prettiest label.

Half the fun of this category is discovering something you fully expected to hate and then suddenly needing three more bottles of it.

IG: @cheekyanddry| website: www.cheekyanddry.com

Ocean Beach Cafe | 📍 San Francisco, CA 🇺🇸

Q+A with Joshua James, owner of Ocean Beach Cafe.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

Curated selection and hospitality focused.

⚡️ You know you wanna. ⚡️

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What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Soulhum…and Kava Haven… together!!

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

All NA whiskeys suck, except Free Spirit Bourbon’s new recipe. And you won’t find a great red, except for Zeronimo Leonis Blend. Now that we got the two most requested things out of the way…the future is functional!

IG: @oceanbeachcafe| website: www.oceanbeachcafe.com

Hey fellow writers! Want to join a writing workshop with , my book coach?

Peep her offerings below.

WRITE WRITE WRITE

Dry Humor | 📍 Easthampton, MA 🇺🇸

Q+A with Elizabeth “CJ” Mutti, owner of Dry Humor Bottle Shop.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

In my opinion, what makes a great NA / functional beverage shop is the people who staff it! You can have all the variety and volume in the world, but without the proper people in place to help facilitate the customers experience, the impact you're going for will really suffer. Its important to remember that we're sometimes someones first point of possibly exploring sobriety and that can be a really delicate time in someones life; it deserves care and sensitivity. I encourage / teach my staff to be welcoming, not overwhelming; to listen without judgement and to not be afraid to share their own stories; that the experience of, and connection with a customer is more important than the sale; and of course, to have fun! I think customers can really feel the genuine good vibes, and they leave with those vibes themselves.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

My current favorite brand is a toss up between Best Day Brewing and High Ground; I've been CRUSHING 6-packs of Wild American, Best Day's current seasonal and always have all varieties of High Ground's sparkling mushroom elixirs on rotation in my fridge.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

We are no longer an industry afterthought; the beverage scene is finally catering to the NA crowd so shop with confidence! There is literally something in every category for everyone and we’re certainly seeing much less judgement when we ask for NA at a store, bar, restaurant, etc. Let the world know that you drink NA with pride! It may even encourage or inspire others.

IG: @dry_humor_bottle_shop| website: dryhumor-shop.com

Explore the global map of NA that’s been seen almost HALF A MILLION times!

⚡️ Keep ZPN the NPR of NA ⚡️

BUY ME A COFFEE

See you next week as we continue our trip to meet bottle shops around the world and discover what makes them so great!

xo,
Laura

This time, our virtual worldwide trip takes us from South Carolina to France 🇫🇷 and everywhere in between. This is the third of many installments. ⤵️

xoxo,
Laura

Before we continue with regularly scheduled content, let me just say I’ve been really enjoying here on Substack, so much so that I asked her if she would collab with me on a future piece. So if you like her book flights and you like drink flights, make sure you stay ready for our joint piece!

Meet happie 🍄

Thank you to our sponsor this month, happie! Their new functional mushroom line, Fungi Fusion, is stacked to the hilt with goodies: 900mg Lion’s Mane, 700mg Cordyceps, 400mg Reishi, 230mg Magnesium, and 90mg Calcium. And in case you like to vibe with a little THC, don’t miss their original line of infused beverages. With happie, there’s something for everyone.

GET HAPPIE

Sèchey | 📍 Charleston, SC 🇺🇸

Q+A with Emily Heintz, owner of Sèchey.

What makes a great NA / functional bev bottle shop?

Curation and a judgment-free space for exploration, this is my WHY for launching Sèchey (it means 'dryish’). The best shops lead a cultural shift toward alcohol flexibility with premium, beautifully packaged alternatives that celebrate choice without compromise. Beyond that, it's about being a destination for discovery, not just a shelf — meaning knowledgeable staff, complimentary tastings, and the ability to try before you commit. We offer the ability to mix single cans with a 10% off discount, and gift with purchases for some of our favorite brands.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Ghia, Little Saints, and Blind Tiger reimagine the cocktail experience without alcohol, offering bold flavor and thoughtful ingredients designed for modern sipping — crafted with functional botanicals and classic cocktail inspiration, each delivering the complexity and ritual of a well-made cocktail without the buzz.

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

Start with your ritual, not your category. Ask yourself: is this a dinner aperitif moment, a post-workout recovery, a social swap, or a wind-down? The best NA and functional shops are organized around the occasion — lean into that. And always taste before you commit to a full bottle.

IG: @sechey| website: www.sechey.com

Le Paon Qui Boit | 📍 Paris, FR 🇫🇷

Q+A with Augustin Laborde, owner of Le Paon Qui Boit.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

Offering a large selection, including "copies of alcohol" and original creations (without any reference to what we may know with alcohol).

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Finote Sparkling Spritz N°3 (mandarin, basil, sea salt)

Atelier Particulier de Fermentation (APF): summer collection > strawberry, poppy and tarragon, with a fermented basis (jun and kombucha)

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Stop comparing, start enjoying!

IG: @lepaonquiboit | website: www.lepaonquiboit.com

More or Less | 📍 Grand Rapids, MI 🇺🇸

Q+A with Chad Clark, owner of More or Less.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

I think there are a lot of factors that go into creating a great NA/functional bottle shop. Honestly, I’m still learning, and I’ll let you know when we fully get there (haha).

Early on, we envisioned opening multiple More or Less locations throughout Michigan. Over time, though, we realized that creating a truly great guest experience requires a high level of guidance, product knowledge, and genuine passion. It would be difficult to replicate that consistently across multiple locations.

Because of that, we decided to go deeper instead of wider by focusing on making More or Less a one-of-one West Michigan hub for all things NA while collaborating with other small businesses where it makes sense.

In many ways, we see ourselves as educators first. We’re on the front lines of the NA movement, helping consumers navigate emerging brands, functional ingredients, innovative production methods, and the broader benefits of reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption.

Education alone isn’t enough, though. We also believe discovery should be approachable and low-risk, which is why we offer informal sampling every day we’re open. If we don’t already have something open, we’ve been known to crack a can or open a bottle on the spot. We recognize that many NA products are expensive, often comparable to or even more expensive than alcohol, and being able to try something before purchasing is essential to building trust and helping people explore the category with confidence.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

I love all of the brands we stock. I’m not just trying to be diplomatic either. If we can’t genuinely get behind a brand, it doesn’t belong on our shelves.

A few brands that are in constant rotation for me right now are Kavahol, All The Bitter, Soul Hum, myce, Dad Grass, Aplós, and High Ground Elixirs.

And of course, *ahem* FRINJ ;)

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

My tip for potential or new shoppers is to leave your expectations at the door and come in with an open mind.

This isn’t a traditional bottle shop that added a few NA options to keep up with the “trend”, although I genuinely appreciate anyone making space for NA products. This is a dedicated NA retail store and we’ve spent a ton of time carefully curating our selection to offer a wide, thoughtful, and genuinely interesting range of products.

It’s also important to remember that some NA and functional beverages can be an acquired taste, much like alcohol often is when people first start drinking it, if they ever did at all. A lot of these products are complex, botanical, bitter, earthy, or ingredient-forward in ways that may be unfamiliar at first.

The best approach is to dive in with curiosity, ask questions, sample when possible, and enjoy the experience of discovering something new.

IG: @drinkmoreless | website: www.drinkmoreless.com

THC Drinks as an Alcohol Alternative: Two Founders Compare Notes

From — Founder, Happie® Beverages

The drink I’m reaching for at 6pm isn’t wine anymore. It’s a 5mg THC seltzer — and the swap didn’t happen because I quit anything. It happened because something stopped paying me back.

I was drinking 8 cups of coffee a day, ending the night with a glass of wine to come down from it, and waking up feeling like I’d run a small tax against tomorrow. The wine-down ritual was load-bearing — it was how I signaled to my own nervous system that the workday was over — but the next-morning cost kept creeping up. When I started reaching for a 5mg seltzer instead, the ritual stayed intact. The cost didn’t. That’s the whole arc.

From — Founder, Zero Proof Nation

My journey to becoming a Cali Sober beverage girlie definitely took more of a winding path than a straight road. I’ve been booze-free for close to 19 years, and for well over 15 of those years I didn’t want to alter my state of being. At all. I still had very black-and-white thinking about my own sobriety, even though I’ve been a staunch advocate for harm reduction, mindful drinking, and doing what works for you.

About two years ago, though, I noticed myself getting Cali Sober-curious. I wondered if there was a way I could incorporate THC beverages into my life in a way that felt authentic and…

...READ MORE

Sansorium | 📍 Vancouver, BC, CA 🇨🇦

Q+A with Fiona Hepher, co-owner of Sansorium.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

Owners and team members who are bold, curious, attentive, and unafraid to challenge social norms and narratives! I'm not going to be agreeable that alcohol is what we're "all hoping for" and "settling" for 0% options just to make a sale. How about: alcohol is the option, because everyone can drink alc-free!

⚡️ Keep ZPN the NPR of NA ⚡️

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What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Pallini Limonzero. We just launched it Western Canada and it's landing in everyone's glass.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Connect with a brand's story, its ingredients, and its craft. Then remove alcohol from your perspective as a comparison and walk into this whole new beverage category, asking yourself, "Does this taste pleasurable?"

IG: @sansorium__ | website: sansorium.com

Free Life | 📍 Hampton Roads, VA

Q+A with , owner of Free Life LLC.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

For me, it comes down to two things: education and hospitality.

I’ve interacted with thousands of people and worked hundreds of events over the last few years, and one thing stands out every single time. People are often surprised by how good non-alcoholic drinks actually are. The category has come a long way, but many people still carry old assumptions about what alcohol-free beverages taste like.

That’s why education is so important. The more opportunities people have to taste products, ask questions, and learn about the category, the more likely they are to find something they genuinely enjoy. At every event I host, I encourage people to sample drinks and ask questions because getting a product into someone’s hands is still the most powerful way to introduce them to the category. Knowledgeable staff who are passionate about non-alcoholic beverages also make a huge difference. We’re still a relatively new industry, and it takes people willing to educate and advocate for it.

The second piece is hospitality. We connect over food and drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages are no different. The role of a bartender has always been about more than what’s in the glass. It’s about creating a welcoming experience, making people feel comfortable, and helping facilitate connection. I mobile bartend alcohol-free events all the time, and I’ve seen firsthand how much that hospitality matters. Whether the drink contains alcohol or not, people still gather around the bar, strike up conversations, and connect with one another.

At the end of the day, a great bottle shop isn’t just selling beverages. It’s helping people discover something new while making them feel welcome in the process.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

One of the brands I’m enjoying most right now is TÖST. It’s been a favorite of mine for a while because it’s consistently a crowd-pleaser. Their Cranberry Ginger is still my go-to recommendation, but they recently released a Sangria that’s absolutely delicious.

What I love about TÖST is how versatile it is. I’ve seen people serve it at everything from backyard gatherings and barbecues to weddings, baby showers, and more formal celebrations. It’s one of those beverages that feels elevated without being intimidating, and it’s approachable for just about anyone.

In a category with so many options, TÖST continues to be one of the drinks I find myself reaching for and recommending again and again.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

A tip I have for new shoppers is to stay open, curious, and come with an open mind. This category is still relatively new, and there are so many incredible products to discover.

One thing I find really interesting is that non-alcoholic beverages aren’t just for people who don’t drink alcohol. More and more people who do drink [alcohol] are incorporating non-alcoholic options into their lives as well. Whether it’s for health reasons, moderation, wellness, training, pregnancy, or simply wanting more options, people are exploring the category in ways they never have before.

My advice is to try a variety of styles and brands. You might be surprised by what you enjoy. The category is much bigger than many people realize, and there are fantastic options ranging from sparkling aperitifs and wines to functional beverages, beers, cocktails, and everything in between.

So come curious, come open-minded, and most importantly, come thirsty as there are so many delicious options!

IG: @freelifellc | website: www.freelifellc.com

Explore the global map of NA that’s been seen almost HALF A MILLION times!

TAKE A TRIP ⚡️

⚡️ Keep ZPN the NPR of NA ⚡️

BUY ME A COFFEE

🌴 Miami Beach Food & Bev Expo - Oct. 28-29

Hang out with me at The Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo, designed with CPG entrepreneurs in mind. Some non-alc brands confirmed: myce, GoddessJUNO, BLU, Solubrae1, and you? 🌴 🌴 🌴 🌴

LEARN MORE HERE 🌴

See you next week as we continue our trip to meet bottle shops around the world and discover what makes them so great! Have a wonderful weekend, friends!

What’s one NA drink you’ll be having this weekend? ⤵️

xo,
Laura

« ICYMI, in last week’s newsletter I announced that I signed with a literary agent! I’m writing a book! 📚 »

This time, our virtual worldwide trip takes us from New York City to British Columbia and everywhere in between. This is the second of several installments. ⤵️

xoxo,
Laura

Meet Fungi Fusion by happie 🍄

Thank you to our sponsor this month, happie! Their new functional mushroom line, Fungi Fusion, is stacked to the hilt with goodies: 900mg Lion’s Mane, 700mg Cordyceps, 400mg Reishi, 230mg Magnesium, and 90mg Calcium.

GET HAPPIE

Minus Moonshine | 📍 Brooklyn, New York 🇺🇸

Q+A with Aqxyl Storms, owner of Minus Moonshine.

What makes a great NA / functional bev bottle shop?

A great non-alc bottle shop has the following: a variety of harder to find products that is curated thoughtfully around small business brands, knowledgeable staff that possess the ability to educate customers on the nuances of our amazing selection, [and] a welcoming environment where everyone feels like they belong.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Sylva, Soul Hum, myce, (parentheses), Dry Wit.

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

Come in with an open mind and ask questions. If you don't know what you'd like, let us help! No, not all nonalcoholic wine is as terrible as your friend says it is.

IG: @minusmoonshine | website: www.minusmoonshine.com

All the Bitter | 📍 Chico, CA 🇺🇸

Q+A with Ian Blessing, co-owner of All the Bitter.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

The best non-alcoholic bottle shops do what Big Box corporate stores can’t. Specifically, I think that falls into three buckets:

1) Curation. The selection needs to resonate with the owner and staff—if you don’t believe in a product, don’t sell it! Just because a brand seems ubiquitous or spends a ton of money on advertising, if the staff doesn’t love it, they won’t sell it.

2) Education and tasting. This can look like mocktail classes, or it can be as simple as the staff having conversations with customers to make sure they know how to use NA spirits. In the ATB Zero Proof Lounge, we have cocktail kits available complete with great recipes and everything you need to make a great drink. You can taste it here first and get advice on making the best drink possible before you spend a dime.

3) Community events. The non-alc space is about more than just drinks, it’s a community of like minded people looking for the same thing. The most successful non-alcoholic bottle shops lean heavily into events, classes, and other ways to bring people together.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

There are so many great NA drinks, but my brand crush is definitely The Pathfinder. Their spirit is akin to an amaro—dark, bittersweet, herbal, and spiced—but it has its own unique flavor from the fermented hemp base and Douglas fir tips, which give it a gin-like piney quality. Everyone who tastes it in our shop is blown away, and it works incredibly well in drinks like a Manhattan or a Negroni. It's the key to our Black Manhattan recipe—along with our ZPN collab Coffee & Cherry bitters! More than being delicious, though, the bottle is something you want on your bar. It looks like something worth drinking, and genuinely elevates the entire NA category.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Ask questions! Ask for tastes! The biggest benefit to shopping at an NA bottle shop (aside from supporting local businesses) is the expertise of the staff. Employees at big grocery and liquor stores just don't have the same level of knowledge as a non-alc shop, and you probably can't taste anything. If you're going to spend $30-50 on a bottle of non-alcoholic spirit, you should probably make sure you like the product first, and make sure you know how to use it. NA shops can help with that.

IG: @allthebitter | website: www.allthebitter.com

GEM | 📍 Pitman, NJ 🇺🇸

Q+A with Drew Davis, co-owner of GEM.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

A great NA and functional beverage bottle shop is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s about creating an experience and a sense of community. The best shops curate products with intention, educate customers in an approachable way, and create an environment where people feel welcome whether they’re sober, sober-curious, wellness-focused, or simply looking for better-for-you options. Thoughtful design, knowledgeable staff, unique events, and a mix of functional, premium, and exciting beverages all help create a space that feels elevated, inclusive, and inspiring.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Of course I have to plug my own adaptogen beverage brand, Gem Blends. We created Gem Blends to be nourishing, functional, and elevated, crafted with adaptogens, functional mushrooms, clean ingredients, and Appalachian spring water. The blends are designed to support things like calm, focus, and energy while still tasting refreshing and social. It’s been really exciting to watch the functional beverage space evolve and to be part of building something intentionally rooted in wellness and conscious connection.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Don’t be afraid to explore and try something new. Functional and non-alcoholic beverages are not one-size-fits-all. Everyone’s taste preferences and wellness goals are different. Ask questions, sample different categories, and think about what experience you’re looking for whether it’s relaxation, focus, social connection, better sleep, or simply a delicious alcohol-free option. Also, pay attention to ingredients and functionality. There are so many innovative beverages now that can support your lifestyle while still feeling fun and elevated.

IG: @gemlifeandbar | website: www.gemlifecollective.com

Fizz | 📍 Victoria, BC, Canada 🇨🇦

Q+A with , founder of Fizz.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

For us, it’s about creating a space that feels welcoming, inspiring, and easy to navigate. The non-alcoholic space can sometimes lean gimmicky or overly clinical, with products positioned as substitutes for the “real thing.” But the brands we curate are anything but.

Many of the producers we work with are chefs and sommeliers, creating deeply thoughtful drinks designed for the table, for pairing, and for social occasions. There is so much experimentation and innovation happening in the category right now, and the best bottle shops are offering shelf space to emerging producers, niche segments and products that aren’t trying to imitate alcohol, they’re creating entirely new drinking experiences.

At Fizz, we want people to discover drinks that feel intentional, exciting, and worthy of being the main character at the table, not an afterthought.

⚡️ Keep ZPN the NPR of NA ⚡️

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What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

I actually have two favourite categories right now: wine alternatives and functional spirits and then favourite brands within those categories.

For wine alternatives, one of my favourite brands is Glow Glow. They have a product called Freija No.1, it’s an incredibly delicate, nuanced sip from Germany that feels very thoughtful and refined. Funny enough, it’s actually difficult to get even there because it’s so often sold out. We had two German tourists come into the shop one day and buy out all of our Freija inventory because they couldn’t find it back home. That felt like a pretty strong endorsement.

On the functional spirits side, I’ve been loving both Dromme and Bonbuz. They’re creating social spirits designed to elevate mood, energy, focus, and sociability in ways that feel intentional and genuinely enjoyable. What I appreciate is that they still feel rooted in ritual and occasion rather than positioned purely as wellness products.

Dromme’s Calm Nightcap is always in rotation at my house. It has become one of those bottles I instinctively reach for at the end of the evening when I want the ritual of a drink without alcohol.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Approach the category with curiosity rather than looking for a substitute. The non-alcoholic landscape has evolved dramatically over the past five years, and the products available today are nothing like what most people associate with NA drinks from a few years ago. There’s so much innovation happening right now across wine alternatives, functional spirits, aperitifs, and social beverages.

One thing we always encourage at Fizz is simply trying something new. We usually have an open bottle in the shop for guests to taste, because experiencing the products firsthand completely changes people’s perception of the category.

And context matters too. What you’re pairing it with, who you’re sharing it with, and the environment you’re in all shape the experience just as much as the drink itself.

IG: @fizzbottleshop | website: www.fizzbottleshop.com

Soberish | 📍 Atlanta, GA

Q+A with Mehrnush Saadat, owner of Soberish.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

A great shop earns trust before it earns a sale. People walk in skeptical all the time - they've had a chalky de-alc red, a cloying mocktail, a CBD seltzer that tasted like pond water. Our job is to flip that narrative for them. That means intentional curation (we don't carry everything, we carry what's actually good), staff who can talk you through the difference between a NA wine, a wine alternative, an aperitif, and a functional drink without making you feel like you're in a lecture hall, and a space that feels like a real shop you'd want to spend time in - not a wellness clinic.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Psilly Goose. I’m a longtime kanna and mushroom fan, and kanna is the ingredient I’ve been waiting for someone to do well in a drink. Quick context: kanna is a South African succulent that works on serotonin pathways, so it gives you this light, social, slightly empathogenic lift. Not stimulant-like, not sedating, just happier. More empathetic, more human. Pair that with lion’s mane for clarity and its... chef’s kiss.

What I love from a retailer perspective is that they made two versions: Euphoria (with THC) and Silly (kanna + lion’s mane only). This way, I can hand the right can to two different customers. The THC-curious person who isn’t sure yet, and the customer who’s THC-free but still wants something that does something. Both walk out happy and both have a better understanding of kanna.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

You don't need to know the difference between adaptogens and nootropics before you walk in - that's literally our job. The best thing you can do is tell us what you're shopping for : a Tuesday wind-down, a dinner party, a date, a friend's wedding weekend. Once we know the occasion, we can put a few bottles in your hand that'll work for you. And taste before you commit when you can! Most shops like ours do tastings every weekend so take advantage of that! This category has range, and your first sip of a great de-alc sparkling wine usually does more convincing than I ever could.

IG: @besoberish | website: www.besoberish.com

Explore the global map of NA that’s been seen almost HALF A MILLION times!

TAKE A TRIP ⚡️

Meet the judges for the Zero Proof Choice Awards!

I’m super excited to join a star-studded panel of judges, including , Camper English, and LP O’Brien at The Daily Pour’s 2nd annual Zero Proof Choice Awards. And did you know The Daily Pour ranked me as one of the 10 women revolutionizing the non-alc industry?!

REGISTER HERE!

🌴 Miami Beach Food & Bev Expo - Oct. 28-29

Hang out with me at The Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo, designed with CPG entrepreneurs in mind. Some non-alc brands confirmed: myce, GoddessJUNO, BLU, Solubrae, and you? 🌴 🌴 🌴 🌴

LEARN MORE HERE 🌴

See you next week as we continue our trip to meet bottle shops around the world and discover what makes them so great! Have a wonderful weekend, friends!

What’s one NA drink you’ll be having this weekend? ⤵️

xo,
Laura

But before we meet the first five today, I have major news to share with you, and it’s a massive birthday gift to myself (b-day was on Monday):

I signed with a literary agent this week!! 📚 I am now a client of Kathleen Foxx’s at Toronto-based agency, The Rights Factory. Thank you to my writing coach for everything.

I’m one step closer to having my book on bookshelves — and in bottle shops — around the world 🌎 . Celebrate with me in the comments! 🥳

Leave a comment

xoxo,
Laura

Meet Fungi Fusion by happie 🍄 ⤵️

Thank you to our sponsor, happie! Their new functional mushroom line, Fungi Fusion, is stacked to the hilt with goodies: 900mg Lion’s Mane, 700mg Cordyceps, 400mg Reishi, 230mg Magnesium, and 90mg Calcium.

GET HAPPIE

The Other Bottle | 📍 Lisbon, Portugal

Q+A with Jeremias Loock, owner of The Other Bottle.

What makes a great NA / functional bev bottle shop?

For me, a great NA bottle shop is not just a place that sells alcohol-free drinks. It needs to be a space of discovery, trust, and edutainment.

The category is still new for many people, so curation is everything. Customers need to feel that every bottle has been selected with a clear point of view: quality, taste, occasion, and real drinking experience. A great shop helps people understand when and how to drink these products, whether it is for dinner, a celebration, an aperitif, pairing with food, or simply replacing a ritual they already enjoy.

The best bottle shops also create confidence. Many shoppers have tried bad alcohol-free products in the past, so you need to guide them, let them taste, explain the difference between wine alternatives, proxies, aperitifs, kombuchas, beers, and functional drinks, and make the category feel exciting rather than restrictive.

In the end, a great NA bottle shop should feel like a modern wine shop: curated, welcoming, knowledgeable, and full of products and info about the producers that make people curious.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

One of my favorite brands of the moment is Royale, the first Portuguese high-end alcohol-free sparkling brand.

For me, it is simply the best quality alcohol-free sparkling I have tasted so far. Portugal may be a little late to the category compared to some other markets, but what is coming out now is genuinely top notch.

I also see this with other new Portuguese producers: for example, Oyá is probably the best alcohol-free beer I have tasted. So while the market here is still young, the quality of the new generation of products is extremely exciting.

What I really like about Royale is that it brings a very pure, quality-driven approach to the category. It feels elegant, premium, and genuinely made for special occasions, not just as a compromise.

It is also a female-founded brand, which makes it even more interesting in a category that is still being shaped by strong independent producers and new perspectives.

What tip do you have for potential / new shoppers?

My tip would be: do not start by looking for the perfect copy of your favorite alcoholic drink. Start by asking what occasion you are shopping for.

Is it for an aperitif? Dinner? A wine pairing? Something fresh after work? A celebration? Once you think in occasions, the category becomes much easier and much more exciting.

Also, be open to tasting. The NA category is incredibly diverse now, and some of the best products are not trying to imitate alcohol directly. They create their own experience.

Herban Flow | 📍 St. Petersburg, FL

Q+A with Caitlyn Smith, co-owner of Herban Flow.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

A great NA / functional bottle shop creates a welcoming environment where people can explore without judgment. Education is a huge part of what we do at Herban Flow — there are so many new ingredients, effects, and experiences in this space, and customers often come in overwhelmed or unsure where to start. We focus on helping people discover products based on how they want to feel, whether that’s relaxed, social, energized, focused, or simply enjoying a great-tasting drink without alcohol.

We also think variety and accessibility matter. Having options across different potency levels, flavor profiles, and functional ingredients allows people to personalize their experience and feel comfortable trying something new. Most importantly, it should feel fun, approachable, and community-driven.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

One of our favorite brands right now is Herbal Oasis. They’ve done a beautiful job blending functional botanicals with a social drinking experience that still feels elevated and approachable. Their focus on plant-based ingredients, relaxation, and mindful connection aligns closely with what we love sharing at Herban Flow, and they’ve done a great job making functional beverages feel approachable for new consumers.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Start low, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. A lot of people walk in thinking they need to understand every ingredient before trying anything, but the best approach is focusing on the experience you’re looking for. Whether you want to unwind after work, replace alcohol socially, or just try something new, there’s usually a great starting point for everyone.

Generation NA | 📍 Lafayette, IN

Q+A with Rob Theodorow, owner of Generation NA.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

I’m going to talk about this a bit more in our 4-years anniversary video tomorrow, but IMO it’s all about the experience. It’s not just buying a slushy machine or signing up for a farmer’s market – those are just the tools. It’s all about creating a community and something people want to be a part of – oh and giving them a little FOMO too. Focusing on what you are versus what you aren’t. We don’t dwell on the non-alcoholic part but rather show the benefits of functional drinks and what they can offer - fun / improved lifestyle / vibes!

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Mellow Mood Hemp Co. – they are vertically integrated and own a hemp farm just south of our shop. The quality and variety of products are second to none in the space. They have options for just about anyone – elixirs, gummies, salves, bath bombs, etc.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Stop asking us “what’s the point?” LOL, just kidding – but for real though. Don’t think about these shops as “sober” shops necessarily and that you have to refrain from alcohol 100% to enter. We’re community hubs that offer alternatives to booze for any occasion.

Killjoy | 📍 Nashville, TN

Q+A with Stephanie Styll, co-owner of Killjoy.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

The COMMUNITY!! Hands down! Our community is so engaged and loving that showing up and being at the shop is a F*CKING JOY!

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

Namari, is it ever not Namari season???!! Guinep, these are great for the summer and an active lifestyle. Cali Sober, my fav THC go to, they are just floaty, social and f*cking DELICIOUS!!

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Ask the staff about the product or recommendations! We love guiding folks through this tasty space! There are many options available, so being curious and quizzative is a must!

Orangily | 📍 Indianapolis, IN

Q+A with Kris Patrick, co-owner of Orangily.

What makes a great NA / functional beverage bottle shop?

A great NA bottleshop needs to have a flexible setup or arrangement. Customer tastes change weekly. Availability of some products can be unpredictable. We need a space where we can rearrange the shelves and products within an hour or two. We also need a flexible space to accommodate workshops, yoga classes, and guest speakers.

What’s one of your favorite brands of the moment?

We are convinced that little fairies make the Five Corners Beverage Co. out of Chicago.

What’s one tip you have for potential / new shoppers?

Sweet can be sophisticated. Don’t reject alcohol-removed Rieslings or Moscatos because you think they aren’t dry enough.

Explore the global map of NA that’s been seen almost HALF A MILLION times!

TAKE A TRIP ⚡️

🚢 Soberish at Sea — 9.23 - 10.3 «Windstar Cruise: GREECE 🇬🇷»

Remember our friend Mehrnush Saadat of Soberish NA / functional bottle shop in Atlanta, GA? Well, she’s partnering up with travel agency Recess 4 Grownups (um, LOVE) this fall on a beautiful trip to Northern Greece.

🚢 LEARN MORE 🇬🇷

Meet the judges for the Zero Proof Choice Awards!

I’m super excited to join a star-studded panel of judges, including , Camper English, and LP O’Brien at The Daily Pour’s 2nd annual Zero Proof Choice Awards. And did you know The Daily Pour ranked me as one of the 10 women revolutionizing the non-alc industry?!

REGISTER HERE!

🌴 Miami Beach Food & Bev Expo - Oct. 28-29

The Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo is designed with CPG entrepreneurs in mind. Some non-alc brands confirmed: myce, GoddessJUNO, BLU, Solubrae, and you? Also, I’ll be there! COME HANG OUT WITH ME! 🌴 🌴 🌴 🌴

LEARN MORE HERE 🌴

See you next week as we continue our trip to meet bottle shops around the world and discover what makes them so great! Have a wonderful weekend, friends!

What’s one NA drink you’ll be having this weekend? ⤵️

xo,
Laura

Happy sipping!
xo, Laura

happie Fungi Fusion - Watermelon 🍉

I expected this seltzer to be pink, like a lot of watermelon-flavored beverages but it pours clear. Smells and tastes like watermelon but not overtly artificial, which is often hard to nail. Good amount of bubbles. THC seltzer brand happie’s latest foray is in functional mushrooms. Listen up to the functional stack in this bad boy: 900mg Lion’s Mane, 700mg Cordyceps, 400mg Reishi, 230mg Magnesium, and 90mg Calcium! I should be able to write a whole book with the amount of focus and clarity this seltzer gives me. But let’s be real for a moment: functional beverages like these often take consistency and time to feel the full effects, so I plan on drinking three of these a week for all of May.

Other flavors: Blue Raspberry (tastes like childhood, but make it healthy) and Mango Mimosa (mmm…the tropics are calling, and they approve! 🥭 ). 40 cals in every can and just 9g of sugar.

Esspo - Sweet Lemon 🍋

I take a whiff from my glass of Esspo’s Sweet Lemon espresso soda and am instantly transported back in time. It was either my sophomore or junior year of high school in the late 90s when Café Greco opened, our very own “Starbucks” in Cairo, but better. And smoking was prohibited! You see, in Egypt, everyone smoked — all the time, everywhere. In the midst of air so thick with soot and sand and smoke, walking through the doors of that cafe felt like actual heaven. You didn’t realize just how pure air could feel until you stepped inside. We’d order a Frappe Freeze and have a welcome coffee-and-air-conditioned-filled respite from outside. I swear to all things holy, breathing in my Sweet Lemon espresso soda from new brand on the block, Esspo, brings me back to that exact moment in time. Smooth and citrusy, this soda packs a caffeinated punch too: 120mg. Don’t mind me, I’ll just be over here figuring out how to turn the aroma into a candle.

BUY ME A ONE-TIME COFFEE ☕️

Hoplark - The Berry Calm One

Raspberry, blueberry, blackberry, chamomile flowers, hops. Once again, hop water OG Hoplark nails it. In a world where brands like the functional HOPWTR are scaling at breakneck speed, it gets harder to stand out…but Hoplark has always been the shining underdog of this category. This brand is truly a pioneer, having gotten started circa 2018 when there were only about three hop water brands in existence. This latest release, a limited edition for subscribers (or superfans like me, who graciously receive new Hoplark SKUs at no cost), is a beautiful symphony of berries balanced by floral chamomile and ever so slightly bitter citra hops. To say Hoplark is one of my all-time faves is a massive understatement. 10 calories per 16 oz. Alcohol-free and caffeine-free.

Nouvie, a Chicagoland women-owned NA wine

I hope this will play for you without needing to go to Instagram. For science, could you reply to me with a YAY (you were able to watch in email / Substack) or NAY (you had to open Insta)? And then tell me if you’re thinking of trying Nouvie!

Register for The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards!

I’m super excited to join a star-studded panel of judges, including and Camper English, at The Daily Pour’s 2nd annual Zero Proof Choice Awards.

REGISTER HERE!

Meet mixologist and educator Lila Volkas - Oakland, CA

Miami Beach Food & Bev Expo (Oct. 28-29) 🌴

The Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo is designed with CPG entrepreneurs in mind. Is that you? Network with buyers, retailers, distributors, industry influencers, press and even the avid consumer market. Create business relationships with those who can take your brand and products to the next level and connect with your consumers directly. BUT ALSO: I’LL BE THERE! COME HANG OUT WITH ME!

LEARN MORE HERE 🌴

Until next week, friends.
What’s one NA drink you’ve been LOVING? ⤵️

xo,
Laura

In recent months, I’ve been really buckling down and getting to work, and I’m proud to say it’s taking shaping quite nicely. I’ve been working with beverage cofounder, writer, and teacher/coach *. One of my recent goals was to write — and finish — my chapter summaries (one paragraph or so per chapter) for the whole book in the course of one week. I don’t know how I did it, but I managed to set aside an hour or two EVERY DAY to write, write, write. I took myself to different coffee shops. I made myself write something, anything. Some of it was terrible. But some of it came naturally, and I was surprised by how easily the words flowed right through me.

Guess what? I finished the chapter summaries! I accomplished this big, fat, lofty goal. Feels really good.

I’ve really been pushing myself past my comfort zone lately.

The other night, after hosting Sober Supper Club at Treehouse Rooftop (we had a lovely group of four who all braved the rain to show up in community over a meal; I took the above selfie right before they arrived), I took myself to Desert Five Spot, the country western bar in Union Market. I saw that it was live band cowboy karaoke night, and well, you know how I feel about karaoke. I signed up for a song, sidled up to the bar and order an Athletic. No questions. No “you know that doesn’t have alcohol, right?!” I ended up talking to a few people and even practiced flirting (lololol completely sober). I ordered another Upside Dawn and after an hour they still hadn’t called my name. It was time to skidadds; I walked to my car, plugged my address into the GPS, and drove home clear-headed1.

xoxo,
Laura

Got the travel bug?

Stay tuned for future issues where we’ll pick a region on the global map and take a virtual trip to some of their booze-free bars and non-alc bottle shops. Note: some of these trips will be for paid subscribers only. So if you’re thinking about upgrading, now may be the time.

Click the map below to explore and leave a comment on where you want to go!

Leave a comment

Meet Fungi Fusion by happie

Thank you to our sponsor, happie! Their new functional mushroom line, Fungi Fusion, is stacked to the hilt with goodies: 900mg Lion’s Mane, 700mg Cordyceps, 400mg Reishi, 230mg Magnesium, and 90mg Calcium. We’ll get to learn more about this lineup in future issues, and of course, stay tuned for my signature reviews!

🚢 Soberish at Sea — 9.23 - 10.3 «Windstar Cruise: GREECE 🇬🇷»

Remember our friend Mehrnush Saadat of Soberish NA / functional bottle shop in Atlanta, GA? Well, she’s partnering up with travel agency Recess 4 Grownups (um, LOVE) this fall on a beautiful trip to Northern Greece.

🚢 LEARN MORE 🇬🇷

Beverage review: Beaglepuss - Tohubohu

I know you live and breathe for my reviews, so just imagine Darth Vader walking in slow mo while his villain music plays loudly.

You know I love stouts. LOVE THEM! This one is sooooooooooo tasty. I’m just being pummeled over here by the dark chocolate and coffee and maltiness. At the end of the day, though, no matter what I say…my words can’t compete with those of the dark master himself (aka the Beaglepuss website):

A dark swirl of madness and malt, Tohubohu is where order collapses and flavor takes over. Built on Midnight wheat, extra dark crystal malt, roasted barley and reckless amount of oats, it pours like midnight and drinks like a fever dream. Rich coffee, dark chocolate, burnt sugar and a whisper of smoke all wrestle for control. Silky on the tongue and gone in a flash, it’s the kind of stout that stares back at you.

How can I even compete with that!?

GET YOUR BEAGLEPUSS STOUT HERE

*✍️ Where are all my fellow writers?

Join writing coach, author, beverage co-founder for her summer writing group. I’ll be there!

READ ABOUT THE GROUP HERE

Meet the judges for the Zero Proof Choice Awards!

I’m super excited to join a star-studded panel of judges, including , Camper English, and LP O’Brien at The Daily Pour’s 2nd annual Zero Proof Choice Awards. And did you know The Daily Pour ranked me as one of the 10 women revolutionizing the non-alc industry?!

REGISTER HERE!

🌴 Miami Beach Food & Bev Expo - Oct. 28-29

The Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo is designed with CPG entrepreneurs in mind. Network with buyers, retailers, distributors, industry influencers, press and even the avid consumer market. Create business relationships with those who can take your brand and products to the next level and connect with your consumers directly. BUT ALSO: I’LL BE THERE! COME HANG OUT WITH ME! 🌴 🌴 🌴 🌴

Some non-alc brands confirmed: myce, GoddessJUNO, BLU, and you?

LEARN MORE HERE 🌴

Meet Hector Diaz and the Aire team!

I first heard about Mexican functional sparkling tonic Aire through my friend Charlotte Mizrahi, fourth generation herbalist and formulator at Ley Line Labs (an industry heavy hitter). What’s so unique about Aire, besides the fact that founder Hector Diaz is also cofounder of Chicago’s In Good Spirits bottle shop (#supportyourlocalnonalcbottleshop), is that the functional ingredients are native to Mexico. Scroll through the arrows on the image below to read the full interview.

Until next week, friends.
What’s one NA drink you’ll be having this weekend? ⤵️

xo,
Laura

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In more “push past comfort zone” news, I’ve started taking ice skating lessons again. MY FEET HURT BUT OMG I’M CHANNELING MY INNER ALYSSA LIU.

Today we’ll explore the world of coffee in non-alc. This might be one of my all-time favorite niches in the world of adult NA. I love coffee. I love NA. I love when the two intertwine. But I also straight up love my beautifully brewed cup of dark roast every morning. I grind whole beans and use a reusable K-cup so it’s kind of bougie but also highly convenient.

Got the travel bug?

Stay tuned for future issues where we’ll pick a region on the global map and take a virtual trip to some of their booze-free bars and non-alc bottle shops. Note: some of these trips will be for paid subscribers only. So if you’re thinking about upgrading, now may be the time. Start noodlin’ on where you want to go. Click the map below to explore.

And now, back to our regular (coffee) programming ⤵️

Coffee Cherry bitters by All the Bitter x ZPN ⚡️

This is the byproduct of a year of brainstorming, flavor testing (I told Ian Blessing, co-founder of ATB and friend that I reaaaallly wanted something with coffee, and he made it happen!), campaign-perfecting (Michael Wilson of Coppergate Design Co. was our incredible designer)…and when All the Bitter and ZPN launched this SKU in December of 2024, it was our love letter to the NA community. On the back of every 5 oz bottle is a QR code to the ZPN global map so you can find NA bottle shops and bars near you.

What All the Bitter has to say:

Rich, roasted, and perfectly spiced—our Coffee & Cherry bitters are handmade in small batches from 11 organic botanicals including locally roasted decaf coffee, sweet cherry, chicory root, orange peel, warm spices, vanilla, chocolate, and wild cherry bark.

Created in partnership with Zero Proof Nation to spotlight the growing non-alcoholic movement, this alcohol-free bitter brings depth and character to a Black Manhattan, Coffee Old Fashioned, or Espresso Martini (with or without alcohol).

Add a few dashes to sparkling water for a surprisingly delicious coffee bitters & soda, or mix with tonic for a bright, aromatic twist.

Sparkling Espresso Spritzes by Esprizio

This gorgeous espresso spritz / tonic line has three beautiful flavors: blood orange, grapefruit, and tangerine chocolate. If you love espresso but also love bright citrus (and you also love bubbles), this new brand on the block is your match made in beverage heaven. Read my review of tangerine chocolate here:

What Esprizio has to say:

Inspired by Italy. Brewed in California.

When I was five, my best friend Luca moved to Italy. It was sad at first, but then we began to go visit.

Summers in Florence meant playing in the piazzas while our parents sipped espresso in the morning…and spritzes in the afternoon. Eventually, Luca and I joined in — and those bright, bold flavors became part of my favorite memories.

Luca and I don’t see each other as often anymore, but the rituals stayed with me. Esprizio brings them together — espresso and spritz — in a drink that’s bright, bold, and made for the carefree moments we share with our favorite people.

Nick, Founder

Espresso Old Fashioned by Free Spirits

While ever-so-slightly high in sugar and calories for my taste, at 110 cals this NA Espresso Old Fashioned is still a far better-for-you sip than any of its alcoholic counterparts. Free Spirits has been around the block for a while and they’re always tinkering on new formulations, always innovating. I love what their ethos.

Here’s what Free Spirits has to say:

Free Spirits Non-Alcoholic Espresso Old Fashioned lets you take a bold craft cocktail with you, wherever you go. Rich espresso mingles perfectly with sweet oaky notes, delivering a bold riff on an Old Fashioned that’s delicious, revitalizing, and zero-proof.

With a kick of B-Vitamins (B3, B6, & B12), it’s crafted with real espresso, natural ingredients, and our award-winning non‑alcoholic whiskey alternative: The Spirit of Bourbon®.

Enjoy it cold straight out of the can or pour over ice and garnish with an orange twist.

Pairs perfectly with summiting a hike, the big game, flourless chocolate cake, smoked short ribs, and operating heavy machinery.

Caffeine Level: ~64mg (equal to about 1 oz of espresso)

Espresso Sodas by Esspo

This is such a new bevvie that I haven’t even had a chance to taste it yet (but good news, my care package from founder Philippe is arriving today!). Classic vanilla, cherry vanilla, sweet lemon — and a solid jolt of caffeine (120mg; much less than an energy drink but definitely more than a cup of coffee). Know your own caffeine limits / thresholds before partaking in this stunning looking soda.

What Esspo has to say:

We wanted a better afternoon pick-me-up.

Milky coffee? Already had one. Plain bitter cold brew? Meh. Sugary energy drink? Absolutely not.

We wanted something natural, refreshing, delicious—but still energizing enough to carry us through the “why is it only 3pm?” slump, without the crash or the junk.

So we made Esspo. It sips like soda, caffeinates like cold brew, and hits that just-right balance of fizz, flavor, and feel-good energy. Light. Crisp. Not too sweet. The kind of boost that turns “ugh” into “Let’s do this!”

Esspo is for people who say yes—to plans, to possibilities, to doing one more thing because the vibe is good. For afternoons that turn into evenings. For days that still have plenty left.

Phony Espresso Negroni by St. Agrestis

I’ve only tried this once and it was a long time ago. I remember loving what I tasted but really can’t remember much to share with you. I’ll have to taste some more, for science.

What St. Agrestis, the paragon of inclusivity in their beverage range, has to say:

The ready-to-serve, Non-Alcoholic Phony Espresso Negroni® is our supercharged Phony Negroni® designed to keep you going further.

Packed with 100mg caffeine, we brew espresso in house using only the finest roasted beans and blend those rich, acidic and bitter notes of espresso with the foundation of our Best-in-Class Phony Negroni®. Take flight, sans booze.

Espresso Martini by Spiritless

This ready to serve espresso martini stands solidly on its own or works beautifully as a mixer in any coffee-based cocktail.

Until Esprizio came out, I would use either Spiritless’ Espresso Martini or Lyre’s Coffee Originale as my base for an espresso tonic and then top with Fever Tree’s Refreshingly Light tonic. Mmmm.

Here’s what Spiritless has to say:

Pour & Share
Our first-ever pour and serve cocktail is made for those who crave the rich, bold taste of a classic espresso martini, minus the alcohol. No shakers, no stirrers—just pour, serve, and enjoy!

Flavor Profile
Enjoy a bold coffee flavor balanced with a touch of sweetness and a hint of bitterness. All you need is a coffee bean garnish!

Perfect Pairings
Choose Your Potency: Enjoy it straight up for a completely Spiritless experience, or elevate your sip and go HALFSIES™ by pairing it with your favorite vodka. This option lets you savor the classic espresso martini taste while cutting down on ABV and calories.

• Made w/ real brewed coffee

• Contains less than 0.5% ABV

• 38mg of caffeine per serving

• 35 calories per serving

• 8g of sugar per serving

Lyre’s Coffee Liqueur Alternative*

I was OBSESSED with this spirit for a solid two years. I still love it, but have been so intrigued by all the new entrants into the (sub) category that I haven’t gone back to Old Faithful in a long while. Would you believe I tasted *Coffee Originale (what it was called for years and is still called, in my mind) back in March 2020?! In the first two weeks of lockdown?!

What Lyre’s has to say:

Lyre’s Coffee Liqueur Alternative is a premium non-alcoholic coffee liqueur featuring bold espresso, caramel and vanilla. Dark chocolate and subtle fruit notes add depth and balance without the alcohol.

Bold espresso and roasted coffee with caramel, vanilla, dark chocolate and subtle fruity notes, finishing rich and smooth.

Discover more coffee-based beverages via Zero Proof Nation

✍️ Where are all my fellow writers?

Join writing coach, author, beverage co-founder for her summer writing group. I’ll be there!

READ ABOUT THE GROUP HERE

Register for The Daily Pour’s Zero Proof Choice Awards!

I’m super excited to join a star-studded panel of judges, including and Camper English, at The Daily Pour’s 2nd annual Zero Proof Choice Awards.

REGISTER HERE!

Who’s goin’ to Miami Beach Food & Bev Expo (Oct. 28-29)?

The Miami Beach Food & Beverage Expo is designed with CPG entrepreneurs in mind. Network with buyers, retailers, distributors, industry influencers, press and even the avid consumer market. Create business relationships with those who can take your brand and products to the next level and connect with your consumers directly. BUT ALSO: I’LL BE THERE! COME HANG OUT WITH ME!

LEARN MORE HERE 🌴

Meet Paul and Amy Yanzer of Forward Beverage Co.

Until next week, friends.
What’s one NA drink you’ll be having this weekend? ⤵️

xo,
Laura

Today we’re doing a mystery grab bag of The Friday Five. Remember when I would send out a newsletter of five things in NA according to theme?

Well, today we’re doing that…but in a more random mystery grab bag style. The theme is overarching non-alc but the items themselves are somewhat random. Who’s ready? Let’s goooooo. 👇

1. Beverage review — Pickleback by Five Corners Bev. Co.

You’re either a die-hard pickle fan or you hate them with a fiery passion. I’ve rarely found in-betweeners with pickles. I’m a die-harder. I regularly seek out pickle experiences. (My friend Pacey just told me about a DC pickle bash in October….) Case in point: I ordered Liquid IV’s collab with Grillo Pickles. When I visited Mel at The Open Road in Pittsburgh, she took me to Two Frays Brewery up the street where I had a delightful NA beer with not just a shot of pickle juice, but a full-on dill spear inside. (Mel stayed far, far away from the pickles, but not before telling me about Picklesburgh, the really “big dill of a pickle fest”). So when savory beverage royalty Five Corners Bev. Co. announced the launch of Pickleback (not to be confused with Nickelback lol), I had to get in on this. It’s the best of pickles with the best of a g-damn bursting-with-bubbles seltzer. Just a little bit of cane sugar too, but that helps keep the savory bev from being too salty. *goes to refrigerate another* I’m having one after my workout today. Did you know that pickles are good for hydration?

🥒 GET SOME PICKLEBACK

2. The ZPN Global Map of NA hits 400K+ views!

Quick pitch: ZPN keeps this map 100% free to use and depends on your generous crowd-funding (along with my own funding) to ensure none of this content is gatekept. Please “buy me a coffee” or 10 or 50 or 200. Thank you!

BUY ME A COFFEE ☕️

You all know by now the map contains well-loved categories like non-alc bottle shops (both brick-and-mortar and e-commerce) and booze-free bars (brick-and-mortar and pop-ups / mobile mixologists) but did you know there are some other categories? NA-friendly shops are retailers that offer a healthy selection of NA in addition to other goods (e.g., like say, a home goods boutique with some NA rather than a grocery store or big box retail). With NA-forward hospitality, we’re looking at places that have dedicated NA beverage programs alongside traditional alcohol programs. These aren’t spots that just have a “fruit mocktail” as their only option. And now, the newest category: AF Travel. Do you remember the last issue with my interview with Alex Person, founder of BeaulieuBooking.com (the alcohol-free experiences booking platform)?

This category will be filled by businesses centered around alcohol-free travel. We already have 13 worldwide businesses listed!

🗺️ VIEW THE MAP! 🗺️

3. Meet Mehrnush Saadat of Soberish in Atlanta, GA

I don’t know about you but Soberish is high (pun intended; there’s lots of infused bevvies at the store) at the top of my “to visit” list of NA bottle shops across the country. Take one peek at the Insta or website, and you’ll see how gorge this lifestyle boutique really is. Roll the windows down; it’s time for a road trip to Soberish! Meet Mehrnush Saadat, founder, in the Q+A below ⤵️

⚡️ 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗙 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵, 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 — 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝘇𝗲𝗿𝗼-𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲?

OOF. You already know. Better Sleep, Less Anxiety, Better Hormonal Health are high level my reasons!

⚡️𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗼 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝘇𝗲-𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗳𝘂𝗻?

FOOD. I love gathering with friends for coffee, lunch or dinner. I love being in my community - and I have several different ones! AF/Sober Community, Law School and legal community friends, Middle Eastern friends, Serenbe, Atlanta, even elementary thru high school friends... outside of food and friends, global travel is a def one.

⚡️𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝗻-𝗮𝗹𝗰 𝗯𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱(𝘀) 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄?

Dromme.

⚡️𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝘇𝗲?

It’s SOOO easy to do now, why wouldn’t you give it a try?

🚘 TAKE A ROAD TRIP TO SOBERISH

4. Beverage review — Uplift by Soul Hum Elixirs

So here I am on a Monday late morning, sipping on Soul Hum Elixirs’ Uplift and club soda with a gorgeous dehydrated orange as garnish. OMG WHAT A BEAUTIFUL AROMA. Bursting with terpenes. The flavor is piney, citrusy, spicy, sweet. I’m so happy I finally opened this gosh darned bottle! // It’s Thursday now and I just made myself the same drink. I found myself saying, post-first sip, without even realizing it and fully outloud, to myself, “Mmm, this is soooooooooo good.” The terpenes are BRIGHT and damn refreshing. It’s true — the first bottle was gifted to me, but I’m going to have to re-order because I’m almost out and I haven’t depleted a bottle of anything this fast in a long, long time. I’ll be honest, I’m not loving the brand design. There’s something about the font and imagery that didn’t draw me in. I’m so glad I opened the bottle anyway. This is a case of the liquid being so absolutely phenomenal that it trumps (oof, sorry to use that word) all else.

GO BUY SOME NOW!

5. The World Alcohol Free Awards 2026 results are in!

Nearly 600 drinks were submitted by brands from 30 different countries. Over 30 judges representing 12 different countries tasted these liquids. And now, the results are in. Fun fact #1: France submitted 85 different entries. Fun fact #2: I judged the first two years of these awards. And because I went to London for the judging, I also got to visit Liverpool and did a full Beatles pilgrimage! Want to see a photo of me with the Fab Four1?

🏆 VIEW THE RESULTS 🏆

Until next week, friends. Be kind to each other. Be kind to yourself. Any beverages you want me to review? Events coming up you’d like me to share? Let’s hear it all in the comments…and have a great weekend!

Love,
Laura

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1. You’ve heard of spring cleaning, but have you heard of spring savings? For this week only (through 4/13), get 15% off your subscription upgrade!

2. Still looking for Q2 newsletter partners (read: sponsors*). Offering a special discount to any sponsors that sign on with me this week. Reply to this email and let’s start talkin’. With 3-4 newsletters a month for three months, you’ll get 9-12 unique brand placements in front of over 2.3K non-alc enthusiasts. Ranging from advertorial content, reviews, banner ads (like the one below) and special creative (like my Buzzfeed-style quiz for Plaid Circus — did anyone take that and what kind of Plaid Circus cocktail are you??), I work closely with you. Have announcements to make? This is the perfect place to drop your news!

   

   *If you don’t have the budget to be a sponsor but still want to support the cause, you can become a Zero Proof Nation by Laura founding member (the ultimate tier on Substack). Just click any upgrade button throughout this newsletter.
   

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And now, the Cliffs Notes version of Friday’s newsletter 👇

1. NA Sips & Quips with Laura! I reviewed Woodstock Goods’ Cherry Pomelo THC seltzer, Esprizio’s Tangerine Chocolate espresso tonic, and Beaglepuss’ Them Apples hopped cider.

2. A DIGITAL PLATFORM TO BOOK AF EXPERIENCES!? OH MY! Take a peek at a clip of my interview with Alex Person, founder of BeaulieuBooking.com, where you can book winery visits, AF tastings at bottle shops, and so much more!

3. A non-alc featured exhibitor at the inaugural Miami Beach F&B Expo! Learn more about myce and other brands making history this October.

Read the full newsletter below. ⬇️

It’s your turn to help shape future issues of this newsletter (which as of last week was #71 and rising in Substack’s Travel tag):

• Let’s talk NA in travel. Where have you found NA on board cruise liners, trains, airplanes, hotel bars, etc.? Would love to share that as well!

• Have you been to a non-alc bottle shop or booze-free bar lately? Want to share your experience? Email me a paragraph description, a photo or two, and how you’d like to be identified, and I’ll share that in a future issue!

• What beverages would you like to see reviewed? Share in the comments or send me an email (just reply to this one).

Love,
Laura