Giesen 0% in the Press + More 2024 by Giesen

Press Book GIESEN 0% IN THE NEWS!

Non-Alcoholic Wine Production Expansions

Giesen 0% Introduces a 10,000-Liter Spinning

Kalina N

August 22, 2024

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Cone

Column

Giesen 0%, a prominent name in non-alcoholic wines, is expanding its production capabilities with the installation of a new 10,000-liter spinning cone column. This investment is positioned as the first of its kind in New Zealand. It aims to meet the increasing demand for alcohol-removed wines by enhancing production capacity and maintaining highquality standards. The advanced technology allows for the gentle extraction of alcohol and aroma from full-strength wines, preserving their original character while also supporting sustainability through the reuse of alcohol in spirits and fuel production.

The spinning cone column's efficiency enables Giesen 0% to produce approximately 2.5 million bottles of zeroalcohol wine annually. This latest innovation has led to a significant rise in sales.

Trend Themes

1. Non-alcoholic Wine Technology - The use of a 10,000-liter spinning cone column in wine production highlights a technological advance in alcohol removal processes, preserving the authentic taste profile of traditional wines.

2. Sustainability in Wine Production - The advanced technology supports sustainability by allowing the repurposing of extracted alcohol for use in spirits and fuel, reducing waste in the wine production industry.

3. Increased Production Capabilities - Giesen 0%'s new installation significantly boosts production capacity to meet the rising demand for non-alcoholic wines, enabling the production of approximately 2.5 million bottles annually.

Industry Implications

1. Non-alcoholic Beverage Industry - This sector is witnessing growth as technological advancements in alcohol removal appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking non-alcoholic alternatives.

2. Sustainable Manufacturing - The wine industry is integrating eco-friendly practices by reusing by-products, which promotes a circular economy and enhances environmental sustainability.

3. Food and Beverage Technology - Innovations like the spinning cone column are revolutionizing production processes, ensuring product quality while expanding capacity in the non-alcoholic beverage sector.

Hilary

August 19, 2024

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Sheinbaum

on

‘Going

Dry’ and navigating lifestyle changes

Danielle Biondi

Hilary Sheinbaum’s new workbook, “Going Dry,” releases on Sept. 3 and offers advice on tackling dry months, creating non-alcoholic drinks and exploring new lifestyle choices.

As a lifestyle and entertainment journalist and founder of GoingDry.co a nonalcoholic event and menu curation company Sheinbaum is no stranger to Dry January’s and has been sober-curious since 2017. Her previous book, “The Dry Challenge,” guided readers in preparing for and completing a full alcohol-free month with step-by-step advice and encouragement.

“Going Dry” coaches readers through their first dry month in a hands-on way, introducing activities for self-reflection and promoting new habit-making. From learning to set new budgets to documenting sleep schedules and reassessing relationships, Sheinbaum supports each activity by detailing her own reflections on sobriety.

The Knockturnal spoke with Sheinbaum about how her career experiences informed the publication process for “Going Dry,” and tips for sober-curious readers.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

The Knockturnal: What has documenting your experiences – both through journaling and through “Going Dry” –taught you about yourself and your growth over the last few years?

Hilary Sheinbaum: I’ve learned a lot about myself, and my relationships. For one, I realized the way alcohol was impacting my physical and mental health. Until I really pulled back for a significant amount of time (aka my first Dry January), I was unaware of how many benefits there are to going dry including but not limited to better sleep, clearer skin, more mental clarity and less anxiety. In terms of relationships, I realized that people who care about your goals will support you and not rudely question or peer pressure you into drinking.

I also have discovered some amazing nonalcoholic beverages which, prior to my first dry challenge I probably wouldn’t have cared to try. But, I love them! Some favorites at the moment are Do’Mo, a nonalcoholic elixir that has 17 functional ingredients, Free Spirits canned (NA) cocktails and Giesen 0% Wine, which I recently enjoyed on a trip at Four Seasons Jackson Hole.

August 13, 2024

Circulation: 150,601 Magazine

Giesen 0% Wine Prepares for Continued Growth in Non-Alcoholic Category With Investment in 10,000-Liter Spinning Cone Column

Press Release

The new technology supports increased capacity with gentle, quality extraction while delivering high sustainable returns for alcohol reuse in distilled spirits, operations and fuel supply

Marlborough, New Zealand – Giesen 0% of New Zealand, the global premium brand leader in alcohol-removed wines, is scaling up its production capabilities with a high-capacity spinning cone column to meet surging global demand for non-alcoholic wines. The first of its kind in New Zealand, the cutting-edge technology allows the Giesen team to increase production from a 1,000-liter to a 10,000-liter column while ensuring the highest quality standards for alcohol-removed wines. The new spinning cone column supports the gentle extraction of alcohol and aroma from full-strength wines, essential to safeguarding the character of Giesen 0% wines, and also delivers long-term sustainability returns through reuse of alcohol for spirits production, operations and fuel.

"Our new spinning cone technology has revolutionized our production, increasing capacity tenfold to meet the growing demand for non-alcoholic wines. As the first winery in New Zealand to adopt this cutting-edge technology, we're proud to be pioneers in the industry," says Duncan Shouler, Giesen Director of Innovation. "With this innovation, we're producing 2.5 million bottles of zero-alcohol wine annually, all while upholding the highest standards of quality, flavor and sustainability."

According to Nielsen data, Giesen 0% is a top-selling non-alcoholic wine in the U.S. market, with sales surging 67% last year, significantly outpacing the non-alcoholic wine category's 27% growth. Additionally, the latest data from IWSR indicates a promising future for the no- and low-alcohol sector, projecting continued global growth.

The spinning cone column is an advanced piece of technology that gently distills Giesen’s award-winning, fullstrength wines into three parts: aroma, alcohol, and body. Once the alcohol is removed, the aroma and body are reintroduced to create a 0% wine that retains the same characteristics as its full-strength counterpart. By maintaining this production on-site, a specialist team can control all aspects of the process to produce a full 0% varietal range that leads the premium sector, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Rosé, Riesling, Premium Red Blend, Sparkling Brut, and soon to be released in the U.S. market, Chardonnay.

Committed to innovation and sustainability, Giesen has found creative solutions for repurposing premium resources by partnering with Strange Nature Distilling. “The alcohol distilled from our full-strength wine is around 45% alcohol by volume, which is currently used for Strange Nature Gin – a premium grape gin that recently won gold at the International Wine and Spirit Competition and has launched in Total Wine & More in California, Texas, Colorado, New York and New Jersey,” shares Shouler.

Giesen is also building an alcohol distillation column to further refine the remaining alcohol from their wines into 93% ethanol, which will be used to fuel the boiler that powers the spinning cone. This initiative represents a major stride in sustainable production and reinforces Giesen’s commitment to creating a circular economy. When the distillation column is fully operational by the end of 2024, Giesen will have invested $7 million in no-alcohol technology since 2020.

Giesen's ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices underscores its leadership in the non-alcoholic wine industry. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, the winery remains dedicated to providing exceptional quality wines that cater to the growing demand for alcohol-free options worldwide.

Giesen 0% wines are imported nationally by Opici Wines & Spirits. For more information about Giesen 0% wines, including samples, interview requests and imagery for editorial use, please contact Samantha Rissling or Katherine Dolecki Payton at Gregory + Vine.

About Giesen Group

Founded by brothers Theo, Alex, and Marcel in 1981, family owned Giesen Group of New Zealand has been an industry leader for nearly four decades. With an uncompromising drive for quality and a strong culture of innovation, the brothers' investment in their people, vineyards, and dynamic portfolio of wines has resonated with consumers worldwide. Based in Marlborough, the Giesen family produces wine to be enjoyed at every occasion, from their highly awarded organic Clayvin Single Vineyard wines to the widely successful Giesen Estate wines and Giesen 0% range. Inspired by today's preference for mindful drinking and flavorful choices, Giesen 0% is the world's leading premium range of alcohol-removed wines, including New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Rosé, Riesling, Premium Red Blend, Sparkling Brut, and Chardonnay. For more information on Giesen Group, please visit giesenwines.com

About Opici Wines & Spirits

Opici Wines & Spirits is a fourth-generation importer and producer with family roots in the wine business dating back to 1913. Led by Don Opici as CEO, the company features a growing portfolio of over 50 brands from nine countries. The philosophy behind the Opici name remains the same today as it was over 100 years ago: a commitment to excellence, quality, and building meaningful relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees. For more information, please visit opiciwinesandspirits.com.

August 13, 2024

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Giesen 0% Wine Prepares for Continued Growth in Non-Alcoholic Category With Investment in 10,000-Liter Spinning Cone Column

Press Release

The new technology supports increased capacity with gentle, quality extraction while delivering high sustainable returns for alcohol reuse in distilled spirits, operations and fuel supply

About Giesen Group

About Opici Wines & Spirits

August 13, 2024

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6 Ways to Have the Best Sober Vacation Ever

Christina Heiser

When I gave up drinking roughly three years ago, I didn’t realize what a huge impact it would have on every aspect of my life. I felt less anxious, had more energy, and learned that I could have a whole lot of fun sans booze including while traveling.

Since ditching alcohol way back in late 2021, I’ve gone everywhere from Disney World to Napa to Italy to, most recently, Jackson Hole, without imbibing and I had a great time in each place.

During these various trips, I woke up early every day (no morning-after hangovers here!) and was able to pack in a ton of activities and stay present in the moment. And then I got a restful night’s sleep without having to worry about alcohol wrecking my shuteye.

Keep reading to learn more about the sober-curious travel trend and find a few tips to get you started if you’re interested in taking a sober vacation.

The rise of sober tourism

It turns out sober tourism or, as I like to call it, dry tripping is a full-on travel trend. It makes sense: Young people are drinking less than ever before and this is changing the way they approach everything from dining out to traveling.

In fact, according to a 2023 survey by Hotels.com, more than 40% of travelers said they were likely to book a “detox trip” in the next year. What’s more, 50% of travelers said they were interested in staying in hotels that offer easily accessible nonacloholic beverages.

So, what is sober tourism, exactly? Sober tourism is, essentially, when you plan a trip with the intention of not drinking alcohol. As the Hotels.com survey revealed, travelers want to drink less on vacation so they can stay in control and feel better physically and mentally.

But if you’re not knocking back beers or cocktails on vacation, then how are you spending your time instead?

During a sober trip, you may replace drinking with adventure activities (such as hiking or white water rafting) or relaxation activities (like yoga, meditation, or spa treatments) or a combination of the two. You might even work in some sober curious activities (such as mocktail tasting) too.

I did all of this and more! during a recent trip to the Four Seasons Jackson Hole hosted by GoingDry.co, a nonalcoholic event and nonalcoholic menu curation company.

I fit a whole lot of activity into two days in Jackson Hole, including a tram ride, hike, wildlife safari, mocktail tasting, spa and pool time, and a visit to the charming town square. Not drinking meant I had enough physical energy and mental clarity to get the most out of my (short) time in Wyoming.

How to have the best sober travel experience ever Ready to plan your own dry vacation? I’ll leave you with a few pieces of advice I learned on my recent trip:

1. Set boundaries ahead of time. First things first: It’s a good idea to take stock of your intentions and set boundaries before you head out on a dry trip.

Make a commitment to not drinking while traveling and focus on the experience you want to have on your vacation. Plan out a loose itinerary before you go so you have an idea of what you’ll be doing.

2. Seek out a sober-friendly hotel. With the spike in popularity of sober tourism, it’s no surprise that many airlines and hotels are now catering to alcohol-free and sober-curious travelers.

The Four Seasons Jackson Hole, for example, has a thoughtful nonalcoholic drink menu offering delicious mocktails and nonalcoholic wines, including Giesen 0% Riesling and Giesen 0% Pinot Grigio. (Here’s how to pair Giesen nonalcoholic wines with cheese.)

“Having nonalcoholic options on menus is so important and Four Seasons Jackson Hole has created an amazing, inclusive drink menu for people who like to imbibe and people who don’t for whatever reason,” says Hilary Sheinbaum, founder of GoingDry.co and author of the forthcoming book, Going Dry: A Practical Guide to Drinking Less and Living More.

3. Do fitness activities in the morning. Not drinking while traveling means you won’t have to worry about those morning hangovers. Take advantage of that by participating in fitness-related activities in the AM hours. Whether you go for a hike or book a class at a local boutique fitness studio, this is a great way to start your day on the right foot.

One morning in Jackson Hole, I even went on a sunrise wildlife safari through Grand Teton National Park. I was bright-eyed and energized during the four-hour early-morning tour because I got a full, uninterrupted eight hours of sleep the night before (which isn’t possible when you drink alcohol).

4. Take plenty of time for self-care.

A sober trip is the perfect opportunity to prioritize self-care. Take a gentle yoga class, sit out by the hotel pool with a good book, make an appointment at a spa for a facial or massage the self-care opportunities are practically limitless.

I felt rejuvenated after getting a wild river stone massage at the Four Season Jackson Hole’s luxe spa. Bonus: This gave me a much-needed chance to fully unplug from my phone for an afternoon.

5. Look for restaurants with nonalcoholic drinks. So many restaurants offer zero-proof drinks these days, so do some research into what’s available at your travel destination before you go. Explore the menus of trendy restaurants to find your next favorite alcohol-free beverage.

At The Bistro in Jackson Town Square, I had a refreshing cucumber mint mocktail made with Mahala, an alcohol-free spirit made from botanicals in South Africa.

6. Stay in touch with your support system. Finally, as much as a sober trip offers the ideal opportunity to unplug, it’s important to keep in touch with your support system back home as needed especially if this is your first time traveling sober and you’re finding it difficult

Mock the Toast | 08.15.24

Mock the Toast

August 15, 2024

Circulation: 150,601

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Shelf Space Battle | Young Drinkers Boost Non-Alc Beer | Heineken 0.0 + US Open

Jose Diaz

everything zero to low-alcohol

Brand Moves:

Heineken 0.0 celebrates moderation at the US Open with its limited-edition "L0VE.L0VE" packaging, offering fans a premium, alcohol-free experience. (x.com)

Athletic Brewing Company X Rhone. (athleticbrewing.com)

Summer Water's Societé subscription partners with De Soi. (linkedin.com)

Giggly is a new THC tonic soda getting ready for launch (H/t Snaxshot). (instagram.com)

Jhin's Bitters launches a non-alc, gut health-focused alternative to traditional bitters. (prweb.com)

Kin Euphoric's new gut-focused flavor: Picklesecco. (instagram.com)

Liquid Death and Van Leeuwen collab to create a new sparkling water flavor: Hot Fudge Sundae. (fastcompany.com)

Connecticut's Two Roads Brewing Co. introduces Road 2 Ruin Zero Non-Alc IPA with more releases planned. (beveragedynamics.com)

The Public House brings "Boring doesn't sell" to the non-alc beer category. (lbbonline.com)

Bouche launches its first 'fizz' PROXY. (instagram.com)

Aldi creates non-alc gin line. (thespiritsbusiness.com)

Giesen 0% Wine scales up production with a 10,000-liter spinning cone column to meet rising demand for non-alc wines, enhancing sustainability. (prweb.com) Athletic Brewing now in over 250 UK pubs. (uk.athleticbrewing.com)

Less alcohol, maximum flavor: 10 best non-alcoholic wines

Not just for Sober October Best Non-Alcoholic Wine (2024)

July 31, 2024

Circulation: 68,216,472 Newspaper

Our editors and readers independently select what you see on 10Best. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There's long been a demand for non-alcoholic wines, though the production methods of the past often resulted in some less-than-satisfying compromises. Thankfully, vintners in recent years have made tremendous strides in retaining the flavors and aromas of wine while removing the alcohol, and sales of alcohol-reduced and alcoholremoved wines have soared accordingly.

A panel of experts nominated their top picks for non-alcoholic wines, then our readers voted for their favorites. Here are the 10 best non-alcoholic wines of 2024.

Giesen is producing both low-alcohol and alcohol-removed wines. The winery operates out of New Zealand, founded by the three Giesen brothers who settled there after leaving Germany four decades ago. Their range includes sparkling brut, rosé, riesling, merlot, pinot gris, and a best-selling sauvignon blanc.

Photo courtesy of Giesen Group

No. 4: Giesen

Clean Plates Taste Test: The Best Non-Alcoholic Wine

Rebecca Strong

July 20, 2024

Circulation: 120,856

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Thanks to the sober-curious movement which shows no signs of slowing down we now have heaps of nonalcoholic beverage options to choose from. But wine is one category that’s historically lacked in tasty alternatives. Just 10 or so years ago, most of the dealcoholized wine options tasted more like sparkling grape juice than a complex pinot noir or chenin blanc. Fortunately, though, winemakers have become savvier with their alcohol extraction process and the results are astounding. I would know: I recently taste tested dozens of options on my quest to find the best non-alcoholic wine and I have to say, I was impressed.

Wine has always been a key part of enjoying the ritual of mealtime for me (as well as part of my job; covering wine and spirits is one of my beats as a writer). There’s nothing like a glass of spicy red wine with a grass-fed steak, or a zingy white with a rich, creamy pasta. That said, I’ve noticed that alcohol tends to sabotage my sleep. And although wine has health-promoting antioxidants, research shows that you can get the same polyphenols after the alcohol is removed. In fact, a Harvard study found that drinking alcohol-free red wine can help to lower blood pressure, as well as reduce your risk of stroke by up to 20% and your risk of heart disease by 14%. Not to mention, there’s no dreaded hangover after you indulge in a few glasses of zero-proof wine.

A word on availability: Depending on where you live, it may be difficult to find non-alcoholic wine at your local liquor store. Luckily, The Zero Proof stocks a wide variety of the best non-alcoholic wine in every category, which you can order right to your doorstep.

Whether you’re taking a break from alcohol, have sworn off it completely, or are simply trying to cut back, rest assured that there’s a bottle for every meal, mood, and occasion. Here are 9 of my favorite zero-proof wines, which taste pretty darn close to the real thing.

1. Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc

New Zealand sauvignon blancs have always been my favorite wines to sip during the warmer months and Giesen’s is one of my standbys. So, naturally I was excited to discover that the brand recently introduced a new version of their sauvignon blanc with the alcohol removed.

My expectations were high, since I enjoy their full-strength sauvignon blanc and the 0% version definitely didn’t disappoint. This easy-drinking, crowd-pleasing white is tart, refreshing, and bursting with subtle notes of tropical fruit. And it only has 16 calories per serving, which is 80% less than a typical glass of white wine.

Giesen’s 0% Pinot Grigio is a runner-up also worth mentioning. It’s equally crisp but a tad sweeter, with some soft floral notes.

Suggested pairings: Asparagus risotto, caesar salad, pesto pizza

Buy it: Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc, $16

The Warm Weather Is For Tasting California Rosé

Tom Marquardt and Patrick Darr

July 15, 2024

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Rosé has been around for a long time, but for U.S. consumers it got off to a rocky start. For centuries, the French have been making exquisite and bone-dry rosé in southern France while American consumers were cutting their teeth – coating their teeth – on a sugary concoction that abused the name rosé. Even though many of these French

producers make only rosé, their product wasn’t as available as Sutter Home’s infamous and prolific white zinfandel. It took years to undo the damage caused by those sweet concoctions and once that happened, sales of dry rosé took off. And, when they did, producers here and abroad added rosé to their vast portfolios just to stay in the game.

Sales accelerated through the COVID pandemic when the phrase “rosé all day” took on a new life with people cooped up indoors. Now, however, it appears rosé sales – like all wine sales – have tapered off. It’s not as if consumers have grown tired of rosé in particular, it’s just that drinking massive quantities of this fun drink doesn’t have the same appeal for some folks.

For us, a glass of rosé is a favorite in warm weather. The color sets a fun tone to a party and its crisp acidity and chill offset the effects of warm afternoons on the boat, patio or beach. Furthermore, there are few wines as versatile as rosé with food. Because the fare turns lighter in the summer, you can pair it with a cold vegetable tray, cheese, grilled chicken, most seafood dishes and dips.

Low alcohol wines

Wines with reduced alcohol levels are gaining attraction as consumers become more concerned about the health effects from alcohol consumption. We recently tasted Giesen wines from New Zealand and, although they don’t appeal to us, they have consumer appeal for those who want to continue drinking wine but in moderation.

The alcohol is reduced to 6 percent through a traditional spinning cone technology.

Giesen Pure Light Sauvignon Blanc 2022 ($15) has half as much alcohol and 45 percent fewer calories – only 62 calories per 5-oz. serving. It has bold tropical fruit notes.

Giesen also makes a traditional sauvignon blanc at $17 with 12 percent alcohol (still less than most sauvignon blancs) and a non-alcohol version at $16.

Cherry bliss

Summer calls for these delicious recipes

By JeanMarie Brownson | Tribune Content Agency

My grandmother had two cherry trees in her backyard. Early summer evenings found my sisters and me sorting, stemming and pitting cherries to turn into jam, ice cream toppings and all manner of baked goods.

Messy work, cherry pitting. We used our small hands and paper clips.

Decades later, I happily employ a cherry pitter to make quick work of the farmers market cherries in season. This is one kitchen gadget worth the drawer space. The action reminds me of using a stapler, except this pitter shoots the pit out of the cherry’s interior.

Rosé has been around for a long time, but it got off to a rocky start with U.S. consumers.

For centuries, the French have been making exquisite and bone-dry rosé in southern France while American

There are many styles and brands of cherry pitters, some with large hoppers that hold a lot of cherries at once, but for most home cooking endeavors, the one-at-a-time pitters work well.

Lacking a cherry pitter? Use a large paper clip and open it up at the bend. Use the smaller curved end to

Turn to Cherry, Page 2

consumers were cutting their teeth — coating their teeth — on a sugary concoction that abused the name rosé.

Even though many of these French producers make only rosé, their product wasn’t as available as Sutter Home’s infamous and prolific white zinfandel. It took years to undo the damage caused by those sweet concoctions and once that happened, sales of dry rosé took off. And, when they did, producers here and abroad added rosé

to their portfolios to stay in the game.

Sales accelerated through the COVID pandemic when the phrase “rosé all day” took on a new life with people cooped up indoors. Now, however, it appears rosé sales — like all wine sales — have tapered off. It’s not as if consumers have grown tired of rosé in particular, it’s just that drinking massive quantities doesn’t have the same appeal for some folks. For us, a glass of rosé is a favorite in warm weather.

CHERRY AND ORANGE ICE CREAM TOPPING

Makes: About 3 cups

4 cups pitted, stemmed sour or sweet cherries, from about 1 1/2 pounds

1/3 to 2/3 cup sugar

Pinch salt

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/3 cup fresh orange juice

1 or 2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur, optional

1. Put cherries into a medium-size saucepan. Add 1/3 cup sugar if using sweet cherries or 2/3 cup sugar if using sour cherries. Add salt. Stir well and let sit about 1 hour to draw the juices out of the fruit.

2. Dissolve the cornstarch in the orange juice in a small dish; stir until smooth. Set the pan of cherries over medium-low. Stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook and stir until cherries are soft and the pan juices have thickened and turned glossy, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in optional liqueur.

3. Spoon into a covered container and refrigerate up to a week. Serve warm or at room temperature.

The color sets a fun tone to a party and its crisp acidity and chill offset the effects of warm afternoons on the boat, patio or beach. Furthermore, there are few wines as versatile as rosé with food. Because the fare turns lighter in the summer, you can pair it with a cold vegetable tray, cheese, grilled chicken, most seafood dishes and dips. If you’re looking for something special from France, we recommend the 2023 Forever Young Cotes

de Provence Rosé ($26). If the name doesn’t pull you in, the flavors will. This tasty wine, packaged in perhaps the most attractive rosé bottle on the market, leans on cinsault. Added to the blend is grenache and syrah to give the wine layers of bright red fruit and citrus, followed by a hint of minerality. Refreshing and lively on the palate. France has been making rosé the longest, but Spain has been making rosado for a long time with local grapes of tempranillo, garnacha, mazuelo and graciano. Italian producers rely on aglianico, montepulciano, negromara and sangiovese. A few weeks ago we focused exclusively on rosés from Southern France. This week, we look at California and other regions. Most California producers follow the French in using grenache, syrah, mourvedre and cinsault, but we have tasted many

Tom Marquardt & Patrick Darr Wine,

Grilled tofu, zucchini are stars of simple summer salad

By Kay Chun The New York Times

Leftovers

Cherry from Page 1

insert it into the pit area, twist and pull out the pit.

Another option is to use a chopstick to push the pit through the cherry.

When pitting cherries, work in the sink or a deep bowl to catch the inevitable spray of cherry juice. And be sure not to wear white for this job.

The recipes here can be made with dark red and sweet Bing cherries, as well as the crunchy, golden yellow with a splash of red Rainier cherries.

For a few short weeks every summer, bright and tangy sour cherries, such as

Wine from Page 1

rosés made from pinot noir and even cabernet sauvignon grapes. While the grapes vary, the vinification process is much the same. The grapes are pressed quickly and shortly to reduce contact between the juice of the skins. This keeps the color light, the acidity sharp and the flavors fresh. The wines are usually simple, but producers such as those in Tavel add complexity by cold soaking the grapes for at least 12 hours.

There is a certain sameness to rosé because terroir doesn’t play as much of a role as it does in, say, the production of cabernet sauvignon. The idea is to keep the wine simple, inexpensive and quaffable. As the temperatures

Montmorency, grace local farmers markets. They are delicious in all the recipes.

The roasted cherry recipe can be served several ways: Spoon it warm alongside grilled or roasted pork chops, chicken or duck breast. Or, spoon it over bitter, multi-colored lettuces for a surprising summer salad.

The cherries and their pan juices can be stirred into warm cooked brown rice or quinoa for a grain salad.

The drop biscuits are best served warm with soft butter. For dessert, split them horizontally in half, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a generous spoonful of cherry sauce.

soar, here’s a parade of tasty rosés to keep you cool:

Three Sticks Castenada Sonoma Coast Rosé 2023 ($45). This might be the best rosé we have tasted from the United States this year. Beautiful watermelon color lays the groundwork for a delightfully fresh and fruity quaff. Named after the producer’s tasting room — one of the few remaining Mexican-era residences in downtown Sonoma — the rosé comes in a whiskey-like bottle that is similar to relics discovered on the property. Strawberry compote, mano and citrus notes make for a broadly flavored rosé made from Rhone varietals.

Decoy California Rosé 2022 ($20). This blend of syrah, carignan, vermentino and grenache makes for an

ROASTED CHERRIES WITH BALSAMIC AND SHALLOTS

Makes: About 3 cups

1 1/2 pounds Bing cherries, about 4 cups, stemmed, pitted 3 shallots or 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced, 3/4 cup 6 large cloves garlic, peeled, halved 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar Salt, freshly ground black pepper to taste Finely shredded lemon rind from 1/2 lemon Fresh lemon thyme leaves and sprigs for garnish 1. Heat oven to 400 degrees. Put pitted cherries onto a large rimmed baking sheet. Add shallots and garlic. Drizzle with oil and vinegar; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir to coat everything well. 2. Roast, stirring occasionally, until cherries are soft, garlic is tender and pan juices are reduced to a glaze, about 20 minutes. Cool slightly.

interesting assembly of fresh summer fruit with a dash of lemon.

Avaline Rosé ($24)

Founded by Cameron Diaz and Katherine Power, this vegan-friendly wine draws grapes from southern France. Among the mix is grenache, cinsault, syrah and the unusual caladoc. It is simple and light with melon and citrus notes.

CVNE Cune Rosado 2022 ($15). Made entirely from tempranillo grapes, this Spanish rosé has ripe and juicy strawberry flavors with a twist of orange and a touch of sweetness.

Hogwash California Rosé 2023 ($18). Effusive grapefruit aromas are followed by orange and stone fruit flavors.

Frank Family Leslie Rosé

3. Serve warm or at room temperature sprinkled with lemon rind and thyme leaves. Garnish with thyme sprigs.

CHERRY-GINGER-ORANGE DROP BISCUITS

Makes:

of Pinot Noir 2023 ($50)

Nothing from this venerable producer is average. Even this rosé seems to have more body and complexity than your average pink wine. A lot of red fruit character with a hint of citrus and balanced acidity. Very delicious.

Dutcher Crossing Winemakers’ Cellar Rosé of Grenache 2022 ($39). From Dry Creek Valley, this luxurious rosé has peach and apricot aromas followed by cherry and citrus flavors.

Presqu’ile Santa Maria Valley Rosé 2023 ($32)

Made from pinot noir grapes, this excellent rosé has big strawberry notes.

LOW ALCOHOL WINES

Wines with reduced alcohol levels are gaining attraction as consumers become more concerned about the

health effects from alcohol consumption. We recently tasted Giesen wines from New Zealand and, although they don’t appeal to us, they have consumer appeal for those who want to continue drinking wine in moderation. The alcohol is reduced to 6% through a traditional spinning cone technology.

Giesen Pure Light Sauvignon Blanc 2022 ($15) has half as much alcohol and 45% fewer calories — just 62 calories per 5-ounce serving. It has bold tropical fruit notes.

Giesen also makes a traditional sauvignon blanc at $17 with 12% alcohol (still less than most sauvignon blancs) and a non-alcohol version at $16.

WINE PICKS

MacRostie Nightwing Vineyard Chardonnay 2022

($58). This delightful and complex chardonnay from Petaluma Gap is its third vintage and from an area that appeals to winemaker Heidi Bridenhagen. It has a lot of spirit and is quite different than the many chardonnays we have tasted this year. Stone fruit and citrus notes with a hint of pine.

Danaus Red Wine Catalunya 2022 ($13). We enjoyed this quaffable blend of tempranillo, garnacha and cabernet sauvignon. Simple, soft on the palate with ripe cherry and plum notes. Quite a deal.

Tom Marquardt and Patrick Darr have been writing a weekly, syndicated wine column since 1985. See their blog at moreaboutwine.com. They can be reached at marq1948@gmail.com.

Turn these drop biscuits into dessert by topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice

For this vegetarian salad, coat tofu and zucchini in lemon-miso sauce, grill them and serve with snap peas and herbs.

DAVID MALOSH/THE NEW YORK TIMES

July 3, 2024

Circulation: 10,000

Online/Digital

Planning a bridal shower for an upcoming wedding? How about our foolproof guide to execute a fun and very popular “Bubble Bar” for the guests.

Sparkling wine is one of the most popular styles of wine these days production levels and sales are skyrocketing. Historically, bubbly has been reserved for New Year’s Eve and special occasions, but Americans are now popping bottles on any given day, just because! And what’s more special than celebrating the bride-to-be prior to her special day?

With the perfect food spread planned, beautiful flowers ordered, and a few fun games ready to go, it’s now up to you to make the perfect wine selections. Adding a touch of elegance and fun to the bridal shower will ensure your Bubble Bar is a hit! And don’t forget a few bags of Tipsy Mix Champagne, Prosecco and Sparkling White Wine trail mixes, featuring Macadamia nuts, roasted salted almonds, honey roasted cashews, plus a few other goodies!

Here’s our cheat sheet to get that party started!

People are abstaining from alcohol these days for various reasons, and it’s important to keep them happy with something fun and festive to enjoy.

Non-Alcoholic: Giesen Dealcoholized Sparkling Brut $19.99 (New Zealand)

July 3, 2024

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25 Best-Ever Items at Wegmans, According to a Lifelong Fan

June 25, 2024

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Online/Digital

The popular East Coast grocer is stocked with impeccable cheese, prepared meals, and international foods.

Sarah Keeler

In Upstate New York, Wegmans is more than a grocery store it's a hallmark of regional identity. The Rochesterbased supermarket chain has attracted the kind of loyal, enthusiastic fan base usually associated with sports teams or celebrities.

When I first moved to New York State, I assumed all the hype around the store was overblown. However, one visit convinced me that this chain was something special.

Modeled after the open-air markets of Europe, Wegmans' store layouts help make grocery shopping feel like a culinary adventure. I love that I can purchase upscale organic and international foods in the same store as everyday must-haves like cereal and toilet paper.

While Wegmans stocks many familiar brand names, I've become partial to its store-brand products, labeled with the signature yellow "food you can feel good about" banner. Features like the Market Café, stocked with an array of prepared foods, and the jaw-dropping cheese shop have turned me into a devoted Wegmans fan for life. As this regional powerhouse continues its expansion along the East Coast, more and more shoppers are discovering the Wegmans magic. Here are 25 of my personal favorite Wegmans items, from grab-and-go prepared meals to pantry staples.

Giesen Non-Alcoholic Rose

NUTRITION: (Per 12 oz. Serving)

CALORIES: 45

FAT: 0 g

SODIUM: 15 mg

FAT: 0 g

CARBS: 9 g (Fiber: 0 g. Sugar: 0 g)

PROTEIN: 3 g

Wegmans is the only grocery store near me that carries this brand of zero alcohol wine. The dealcoholized rose is a convincing stand regular stuff with a rosy pink hue and a subtle fruity aroma. Wegmans stocks the Giesen brand non-alcoholic wine in its cheese shop pair this booze-free sipper with one of Wegmans cave cheeses.

25 Best-Ever Items at Wegmans, According to a Lifelong Fan

Sarah Keeler

June 25, 2024

Circulation: 23,836,544

Online/Digital

When I first moved to New York State, I assumed all the hype around the store was overblown. However, one visit convinced me that this chain was something special.

As this regional powerhouse continues its expansion along the East Coast, more and more shoppers are discovering the Wegmans magic. Here are 25 of my personal favorite Wegmans items, from grab-and-go prepared meals to pantry staples.

Giesen Non-Alcoholic Rose

NUTRITION: (Per 12 oz. Serving)

CALORIES: 45

FAT: 0 g

SODIUM: 15 mg

FAT: 0 g

CARBS: 9 g (Fiber: 0 g. Sugar: 0 g)

PROTEIN: 3 g

68,216,472 Newspaper

Spring Sips: Here Are Delicious Mocktails You Should Try

Dominque Fluker

March 28, 2024

Circulation: 4,049,217

Digital

Just because it’s not January or March doesn’t mean you have to stop your sober curious lifestyle! Limiting alcohol consumption has several health benefits, including lowering alcohol-related symptoms like headaches, heartburn, indigestion, and stomach upsets.

While drinking may not be socially popular, mocktails are better for your gut and mental health. They ease stomach irritation and support nutrient absorption, colon health, and balance. Aside from the diversity of ingredients and flavors to enjoy, you’ll also experience less sugar and calories and less exposure to the ramifications of drunk driving.

From gut-loving ingredients like probiotics to fruity and flavorful embellishments, mocktails are increasingly offering a great solution to those who are tired of drinking alcohol or can’t drink it for health reasons. Check out some of our favorite recipes from the Mindful Mocktail below so you can make them at home while entertaining your guests.

Rosé Paloma Mocktail

May 10, 2024

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Gift mom a bouquet of Rosé this Mother’s Day

Wanda Cole

Houston – Are you looking for a unique Mother’s Day gift? Try a bouquet of Rosé. �

We chatted with advanced sommelier Wanda Cole-Nicholson about some Rosé options perfect for the mom in your life.

Cole-Nicholson gave us some great choices, all of which can be found in Houston.

She went above and beyond by adding more thought to gifting these wines. The following selections represent a characteristic of our dear mothers.

Wanda’s Picks

1. Giesen Zero Rose, New Zealand - A Rosé for her sacrifice.

$12 Total Wine the Heights

2. 2023 Scaia Rosato, Veneto, Italy - A Rosé for her beauty.

$14 Houston Wine Merchant

3. 2023 Gerard Bertrand Cotes des Roses “Art Series”, Languedoc, France - A Rosé for her poise.

$25 Central Market on Westheimer Rd.

4. 2023 Rodney Strong Rose, Sonoma Coast, California - A Rosé for her perseverance.

$17 HEB stores citywide

5. NV Piper Heidsieck Rose Champagne, France - A Rosé for her harmony.

$67 Spec’s Smith St

May 13, 2024

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BEST NO ALCOHOL DRINKS TO SIP THIS SUMMER 2024!

Our top recommendations include no alcohol wine, beer and seltzer options, kombucha, mocktail mixers and cannabis/THC drinks and concentrates. You are sure to find a zero proof beverage option that you absolutely love!

In case you haven’t noticed, the no alcohol sober-curious movement has EXPLODED and I am here for it! Don’t get me wrong, I love a good cocktail. However, you cannot deny how good you feel with better sleep, more energy and less brain fog.

Interestingly, the World Health Organization published a statement in 2023 indicating that no level of alcohol consumption is safe for our health so this seems to be a trend in the right direction. Whatever your reason for checking out some alternative beverage options, I love this for you and hope to provide you with some amazing no alcohol alternatives.

Plus, enjoy these delightful drink options with our favorite Trader Joe’s Charcuterie Board, Lion’s Mane Mushroom Crab Cakes or any of our delicious appetizer and snack recipes!

Everything on this list has been vetted and we are only recommending products that we have tried and love. That means we did leave many product options off our list. We won’t name names because brands work exceptionally hard to create great products, they just might not be a fit based on our personal opinion.

This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through this link (at no extra cost to you). Some of these products I received at no cost in order to try them and make sure they were an awesome fit for my readers! All opinions are my own and I have only included items that I love!

NON-ALCOHOLIC WINES

GIESEN

If you are looking for sophisticated and exciting in a bottle, you will adore Giesen 0% Wines! The Giesen lineup is delightfully sipable, refreshing and complex in flavor and while we wanted to pick a standout, these 0% wines were all exceptionally crafted:

• 0% Sparkling Brut: This playful and effervescent sparkling wine delights with flavors of lemon, grapefruit, and pear.

• 0% Sauvignon Blanc: Experience the nation’s top-selling premium NA white wine, boasting delicate aromas of fresh lime, redcurrant, and passionfruit notes.

• 0% Rosé: A light-bodied Rosé with delightful stone fruit aromas and crisp cranberry flavors, offering a refreshingly dry texture.

• 0% Pinot Grigio: Delicate floral notes with white flowers and red apple, balanced between crispness and sweetness for a truly enjoyable experience.

• 0% Premium Red: For red wine enthusiasts, indulge in crushed blackberry aromas and plum notes, offset by toasted oak, for a light and refreshing option.

• 0% Riesling: With zingy lime, ripe mandarin, and delicious sweetness, this Riesling is perfect as an aperitif or paired with your favorite dishes.

Sunday Shop: Vinci Cold Brew, Ogee, Lezé the Label

Morgan Hines

March 24, 2024

Circulation: 15,652

Digital

As you read this, I’m wrapping up a beach vacation and surely soaking in the last bit of warmth and serenity before heading back to early spring in New York City. (Hopefully) I’m feeling ready for another week of hustle and bustle, though some weeks that eagerness to dive into the week comes more naturally than others.

I’m Morgan Hines, Appetito’s food and style writer. I have experience covering travel, fashion, food, entertainment, lifestyle, health and fitness, and so much more. And I keep my finger on the pulse of what’s fresh, trending, and classically stylish, and work to incorporate those elements into my daily life. Now, through Appetito’s Sunday Shop, I’m ready to share those insights with you.

This is meant to be a casual, quick look but I’m always happy to expand on inclusions. Feel free to email morgan@morganhines.com, if you’re looking for more details on any products, restaurants, or experiences maybe I’ll even write a follow-up piece.

Cheers,

Morgan | @MorganEmHines

Drinking: It’s no secret that the zero proof category has grown over the years, and I’ve been known to love a non-alcoholic beverage option. Right now, my NA selection of choice is Giesen’s Dealcoholized New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. This citrus-forward option is crisp, dry and light and not too sweet, as I’ve often found NA wines to be. Definitely a weeknight treat.

10 Wines You Can Feel Good About Drinking

Brianne Cohen

March 26, 2024

Circulation: 10,000 Digital

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but wine is not healthy. It’s not a health food, it’s an alcoholic beverage. But we can enjoy wines on the spectrum of wellness and mindfully fit wine into our lives and be conscious of what we put in our bodies. This article describes what organic, biodynamic, and non-alcoholic wines are all about.

Non-Alcoholic Wines

Fre Non-Alcoholic Wines Giesen Nonallcohol wineKally Verjus, non-alcoholic wineCodorníu Zero non alcoholic wineThis category of wines has surely evolved. If you have not had a non-alcoholic wine in the last few years, I recommend you give it a try. The quality of non-alc wines on the shelves has significantly improved. They used to be cloyingly sweet, similar to fruit juice. The process of dealcoholizing wines has improved and now we have non-alc wines that are dry (no sweetness) and that have similar aromas and flavors of wine.

Moderation is a much larger conversation now when discussing alcohol consumption. There could be any reason why you’re moderating your consumption, non-alc wines are a great way to still feel fun, social, and fancy, without the effects of alcohol. Some great non-alcoholic wine brands include Codorníu Zero, Kally Verjus, Giesen, and Fre.

13, 2024

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G Post - Third Place Bar NA Wine Tasting Event @ Modern Love Brooklyn (product sponsorship)

IG Post - Third Place Bar promotional post for upcoming NA event at Modern Love Brooklyn (product sponsorship) March 12, 2024

March 8, 2024

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The best non-alcoholic wines for 2024 that don't taste like grape juice

Karisa Langlo

So what’s the deal with non-alcoholic wine? Is it any good? (Spoiler alert: Yes!) I spoke with several industry experts, including the owner of a non-alcoholic bottle shop in Nashville and the founders of Sacramento’s first non-alcoholic bar, and assembled a panel of taste testers to rate more than 20 bottles white, red, rosé and sparkling on appearance, aroma, taste, finish and similarity to alcoholic wine. Read on to see which ones we liked best and how to find a bottle that appeals to your preferences.

Giesen Pinot Grigio

Best non-alcoholic white wine

Two experts I spoke to recommended one of Giesen’s other non-alcoholic wines (the Sauvignon Blanc, which you can read more about below), but it was the brand’s Pinot Grigio that reigned supreme in our tasting. Tasters called it "crisp," "refreshing" and "not too sweet or too acidic." Thanks to a touch of sweetness and tasting notes of white flowers, lychee and red apple, a few of the testers christened it the ideal poolside beverage for the sober crowd.

This bottle scored lower than most of our sparkling options on its similarity to alcoholic wine, but that speaks more to the category than the brand experts recommend starting off with sparkling because still non-alcoholic wines are harder to get right. With still wines, "If you're looking for something that tastes exactly like traditional wine, you're going to be disappointed," said Amanda and Kathryn Altman-Brincat, founders of Sacramento, Calif., non-alcoholic bar the Teetotalist.

March 5, 2024

We're back with a new episode & a new friend! In this episode, we meet Hilary Sheinbaum: journalist, speaker, 2x author, and founder of non-alcoholic event company, GoingDry.co.

Hilary's first book, The Dry Challenge: How to Lose the Booze for Dry January, Sober October, and Any Other Alcohol -Free Month, came out in December of 2020.

She has contributed to publications including The NY Times, USA TODAY, Marie Claire and Forbes, covering celebrity, fashion, beauty, wellness, food & beverage, love, lifestyle, and more.

In this episode, we cover:

• Hilary's background and how alcohol was woven into her early career as a red carpet reporter.

• How a New Year's Eve bet with a friend turned into Hilary's first Dry January.

• How this experience changed her perspective and later led to her writing The Dry Challenge and covering the nonalcoholic space.

• Relationships & alcohol, wedding planning, and more!

IG Reel from @soberishmom featuring Giesen 0% Rosé March 5, 2024

February 12, 2024

Can alcohol-free wine see the same success as alcohol-free beer?

Rachel Arthur

The Romance of Non-Alcoholic Wine

Hilary Sheinbaum

February 7, 2024

Circulation: 10,200

Digital

For those of you still “drying out” in January, and for some reason or another, wish to continue the practice, we thought it would be the right thing to do to list a few very romantic wines to serve at St. Valentine’s Day sans alcool i.e., without alcohol!

At first glance, the traditional mind may inquire as to why. Well as we’ve mentioned ad infinitum, it’s a brave new wine world out there, with a lot of new players in the game of wine. On the up-side to N/A alcohol free wines, there are no added headaches, no added bad or reckless behaviors, no DUIs, and perhaps, no additional performance issues. Enough said.

For those “savvy blanc” lovers, look no further than to the Giesen Sauvignon Blanc Dealcoholized ($12). To be honest, the flavor profile actually mirrors the regular Giesen Sauv blanc wine, that shows fruity and refreshing notes of: green apple, citrus, tropical fruits, and hints of stone fruits.

Now to the Giesen Non-Alcoholic Rosé ($12). It is a blend of Pinot Grigio, Syrah, and Pinot Noir. harvested from Marlborough, giving this rosé its lovely pink hue. The finished wine undergoes a gentle spinning process to dealcoholize the wine without sacrificing the optimal crispness and bountiful aromas.

The Giesen website states: “Full of various red and stone fruit flavors, this classic expression of rosé is clean, crisp, and refreshing; the interplay of flavors and a dry texture gives it a pick-me-up feeling. Serve it chilled in a long-stem wine glass and you have a picturesque pour for any guests abstaining from alcohol. Or, bring it along as a hostess gift!”

February 9, 2024

Circulation: 10,000

Bubble Up with Champagne or Sparkling Wine this Valentine’s Day

Isabel Kellogg

Digital

Would you believe that there’s a premium grade 0% alcohol sparkling brut from New Zealand? At a recent tasting with Giesen’s winemaker Duncan Shouler, I learned their alcohol-free wines are made like wines no added sugars either through fermentation before the alcohol is removed in a contraption with spinning cones. Their sparkling brut is also a great sparkling wine substitute when making “mocktails”.

IG Story from @morganemhines (freelance writer for USA Today) February 20, 2024

IG Reel from the LA Happy Hour tasting February 20, 2024

February 15, 2024

IG Story by Brianne Cohen @sommspirations

February 12, 2024

IG Reel - Hayley Stroh

IG Reel - Gabi Conti @itsgabiconti February 12, 2024

IG Stories - Gabi Conti @itsgabiconti February 8, 2024

IG Reel - Jessica Heigis @allamericangrapes February 11, 2024

IG Post - Isabelle Kellogg (Editor @ Luxury Facts) February 7, 2024

Dry January x Influencer Campaign January 31, 2024

Dry January x Influencer Campaign January 30, 2024

Seattle Sips: Making zero proof cocktails with 'Soberish Mom' Katie Nessel

Katie Nessel

Dry January x Webinar January 30, 2024

The 6 Best Non-Alcoholic White Wines in 2024

Hilary Sheinbaum

January 30, 2024

Circulation: 5,227,370 Podcast

Few beverage categories have experienced the growth, and an uptick in quality, like that of non-alcoholic wine. Produced via a special dealcoholization process (or simply made without the booze, to begin with), non-alcoholic options offer a fantastic solution for those looking to skip the side effects of wine, without having to sacrifice on texture or taste.

Giesen Non-Alcoholic Riesling

“Giesen's range of non-alcoholic wines are the most comprehensive,” says Hilary Sheinbaum, author of the best-selling book Dry Challenge, citing that the lineup is also the most comparable to full-proof wines. “I'm a riesling fan, and this one is perfect I wish it was on more restaurant lists,” she says.

Crisp and acid forward, this varietal riesling comes from select vineyards in Marlborough and Waipara. On the palate, notes of lime, crushed stones, and white flowers lead to a refreshing, long-lasting finish.

In addition to their alcohol-removed riesling, Giesen also produces a fantastic dealcoholized sauvignon blanc.

Dry January x Influencer Campaign January 29, 2024

The Best Wine To Pair With Crab Cakes

Maria Scinto

January 28, 2024

Circulation: 11,275,735 Podcast

If you used to enjoy a glass of wine with your dinner, but you've given it up for Dry January, Lent, or any other reason, you may feel slightly wistful about the fact that you may not get to try pairing sauvignon blanc with crab cakes. Well, that's not the case since there are many high-quality, non-alcoholic sauvignon blancs that will complement your crab cakes just as well as their higher-octane counterparts.

Wirecutter found Surely sauvignon blanc (considered non-alcoholic but not alcohol-free at under 0.5% ABV) to be tart, fruity, and easy to drink. Fre sauvignon blanc, another non-alcoholic option, made Wine Enthusiast's list of top non-alcoholic wines, as did the 0% ABV Giesen Marlborough sauvignon blanc. The latter was also Liquor.com's pick for best non-alcoholic (and alcohol-free) white wine. Our choice for a non-alcoholic sauvignon blanc that's better than the boozy kind is Starla, a wine blend that mixes colombard and sauvignon blanc grapes.

Wine Writer for

Decanter

IG Story Featuring Giesen 0% Sparkling Brut January 28, 2024

Wine Influencer January 28, 2024

Episode: 024: The Dry Challenge with Hilary Sheinbaum

Hilary Sheinbaum

January 26, 2024

Circulation: 20,000

Podcast

In this podcast episode, I got to chat with Hilary Sheinbaum, an author and journalist based in New York City. Our discussion revolved around the concept of dry January and the positive impacts of temporarily abstaining from alcohol. Hilary shared her personal journey through the transformative experience of her initial dry January, highlighting improved sleep, elevated mood, and an overall sense of well-being.

We explored the evolving landscape of non alcoholic beverages, acknowledging the exciting options available today. Shifting towards workplace culture, we delved into the importance of inclusive events that don't solely centre around alcohol, drawing from Hilary's own journey in journalism, which evolved from alcohol-related content to advocating for non-alcoholic choices.

Throughout our conversation, we shed light on the societal impact of alcohol-related accidents and expenses, emphasising the need for more inclusive spaces for those opting not to drink. Hilary's book, "The Dry Challenge," emerged as a compassionate guide, encouraging individuals to explore a break from alcohol without judgment. Her website, goingdry.co, is also coming soon, and you can contact Hilary on her Instagram (@goingdry.co).

Dry January x Influencer Campaign January 26, 2024

Dry January x Influencer Campaign January 25, 2024

Dry January x Influencer Campaign January 22, 2024

Non-alcoholic wine brands to get you through dry January

January 22, 2024

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Daniela Garrido

January 18, 2024

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Digital

Even with the alcohol removed, these new wines are actually good

Dave McIntyre

The trend toward “Dry January” and “mindful drinking” has prompted a boomlet in dealcoholized wine and “wine alternatives,” creative concoctions meant to mimic wine’s body and flavor. There are several new choices that weren’t on the market a year ago, appealing to consumers who want the experience of wine without the effects and aftereffects of alcohol.

Most of these taste like, well, grape juice, either unsweetened (sour) or sweetened. Some brands I have recommended that best approximate wine are New Zealand’s Giesen 0%, which adds back 6 percent unfermented juice, and Le Petit Béret from France. French Bloom makes a very good zero-alcohol sparkling. And several German producers, including Leitz, Selbach and Loosen Bros. (of the Dr. Loosen estate), have introduced dealcoholized rieslings, both dry and sparkling. Being relatively low-alcohol to begin with, riesling may have an advantage in this market. The examples from Loosen Bros., called Dr. Lo, are especially good.

January 18, 2024

Circulation: 73,844,154 Digital

How Non-Alcoholic Wine And Perfume Are Similar – Giesen Winemaker Explains

Liz Thach, MW

alcoholic beverage choices, and fortunately the wine, beer, and spirits industry has been introducing many new options over the past two years. This makes sense, given that the category is one in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to NielsenIQ.

One winery that is making a big splash in the non-alcoholic category is Giesen. Based in New Zealand, Giesen has been making wine since 1981, but only started producing its zero alcohol wines in early 2020. Recently their head winemaker, Duncan Shouler, hosted an online tasting of six of their zero alcohol wines, and explained the special winemaking process used to maintain aromas and flavors while removing the alcohol.

‘High quality non-alcoholic wine depends on two factors – high-quality grapes and a process to delicately remove the alcohol,” stated Duncan Shouler, head winemaker for the Giesen-Zero wine portfolio. It turns out that the delicate process is similar to what the perfume industry uses to extract aromas.

To date Giesen has developed and released seven different varieties of non-alcoholic wine: sparkling brut, sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, rosé, riesling, merlot, and a red blend. The wines are also low calorie and low carb – ranging from 19 to 33 calories and 4.5 to 9 carbs per 5-ounce serving. Suggested retail price points in the U.S. range from $16 to $19.99.

How Giesen Makes Non-Alcoholic Wines

#1) Start with Sustainably Grown Wine Grapes: Duncan explained that all of Giesen wines are certified sustainable by Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. This means all the grapes that go into the wines have been grown in a sustainable manner, which includes special soil, water, plant protection and people practices. The grapes that go into the zero-alcohol wine are sourced from these vineyards

#2) Produce Wine in Same Fashion: The grapes are fermented in the same manner as traditional wine, usually in a stainless steel tank with yeast. Next the white and rosé wines are aged for several months in tank. The red wines are fermented and aged with oak chips and staves to provide a hint of toasty oak.

#3) Remove Aromas From Wine, Then Alcohol: There are several methods to remove alcohol from wine, but Duncan says they prefer to use the spinning cone technology.

“We use spinning cone technology, which is used in the perfume industry, because it is really good at extracting aroma. We do this first, and then slowly heat up the wine and remove the alcohol,” stated Duncan.

They do this in multiple passes so that it is a gentle process. “We have our own spinning cone, so we get to control the quality,” explained Duncan. (Other methods to remove alcohol from wine include vacuum distillation and reverse osmosis.)

#4) Blend All Components: The last step is to blend the aromas and the dealcoholized wine back together, along with a small amount of pure grape juice (no sugar is added to the wine). When bottling, they add a small amount of SO2 (around 30 ppm free) to protect the wine, as is common with traditional wines.

“The end result is wine that is 0.35 to 0.4% alcohol, similar to fruit juices. If you were to drink 20 bottles, you would still be fresh,” said Duncan.

So What Do Giesen Zero Alcohol Wines Taste Like?

In the past non-alcoholic wines have received a ‘bad rap’ because they either taste too thin or too sweet – like drinking grape juice. The good news is they are getting better, and some of the Giesen wine are a testament to this – especially if you like dry wines – which are quite popular in New Zealand and Australia.

Duncan led us through a tastings of six wines, and my personal favorites were the Giesen Pinot Grigio and Sparkling Brut, but all six wines are appealing for Dry January. Following are some brief notes on the wines, with calories and carbs calculated for a 5-ounce glass serving:

Giesen Zero Pinot Grigio = nose of pear with a hint of floral, with tart green apple and good texture on the palate. It ends with a surprisingly long and refreshing finish, and would pair well with salad, cheeses, and lighter fish dishes. 27 calories , 7 carbs, $16 (My personal favorite)

Giesen Zero Sparkling Brut = light fresh nose with ripe golden apple and lemon; frothy bubbles in the beginning that transition to a pleasant pétillance on palate. Very dry and refreshing with good acidity. Made with a blend of chardonnay, pinot grigio and sauvignon blanc grapes. 21 calories, 6 carbs, $19.99

Giesen Zero Rosé = appealing salmon color, a hint of pear, tart strawberry and rhubarb on nose and palate, juicy acidity with dry finish. 19 calories, 4.5 carbs, $16.

Giesen Zero Riesling (semi-sweet) = A hint of classic diesel on nose, but brimming with peach, honey, and lime on palate. Nice texture with good acidity and decent length. Lingers on the palate in a pleasant manner. Would pair well with spicy cuisine. 33 calories, 9 carbs, $16

Giesen Zero Sauvignon Blanc – Classic gooseberry and grass on nose, which follows through on palate with strong lime and a hint of kiwi. Light bodied with high acid. 19 calories, 4.5 carbs, $16

Giesen Zero Red Blend – a surprisingly aromatic nose with ripe berries, spice and toasted oak. A bit thin on the mid-palate, but has an enjoyable finish with plum, cloves, oak and a pleasant tannin structure. A fine effort – given that producing dry red non-alcoholic wines is very challenging. This wine could even stand up to heartier dishes, such as pork with mushrooms and hard cheeses. It also pairs well with chocolate. 27 calories, 7 carbs, $16.

When asked, Duncan said the best sellers were the “sauvignon blanc, sparkling brut, pinot gris, and rosé, but the red blend

Giesen Wine Mixology for Cocktails

Giesen has also developed an interesting database of wine cocktail recipes for their non-alcoholic wines. Many were developed by master mixologist, Pam Wiznitzer, and are available on their website. Examples include ‘The Ruby Slipper Fizz, The Gigi Spritz, and Minted Sunset Smash.”

17,

Celebrating "Dry January" With A De-Alcoholized Wines Pairing From Fre and Gieson 0%

I'm not a big fan of the idea behind "dry January" ... the notion of creating a "time out" implies that overconsumption instead of moderation is ok and while for some this might be the opportunity to put them on the right path again, I'd prefer that people approach the concept of bing drinking in othere more practical ways. Regardless though, this is a great time of year to take a look at non-alcohol wines and how the industry is evolving in terms of packaging, production quality, and technology that allows them to be a palatable alternative to alcoholic wines for folks who, for whatever reason choose not to imbibe. In our case, this was a great opportunity for us to give my father-in-law a chance to have a drink or two. As you know, he's been in and out of the hospital since March, and unfortunately, alcohol interferes with his medicine, so he's been dry for nearly a year.

There are more people who avoid alcohol than you might think!

In a recent Gallup survey, 36% of Americans 18+ described themselves as "Total Abstainers" in terms of alcohol consumption. White males drink more than other groups. - Gallup Survey 2022

James Hills

The industry has matured rapidly over the past few years, and today's non alcoholic or de-alcoholized wines are, quite frankly, nothing like what was being presented just a few years ago. In the past, there were several different methods of removing alcohol from wine, but the industry seems to have decided that the so-called "spinning cone" method is the best process available today - it is what both Giesen 0% and Fre use to produce their non-alcoholic wines (containing < 0.5% ABV).

What Is "Spinning Cone Method"?

While each wine maker may tweak the method to best suit the product he or she is trying to create, the fundimentaal concept behind the spinning cone method is that a premium wine is produced to first remove the vapors where the aromas live and then the aclohol is dispersed after that while the flavors and aromas are than recombined with the wine .

Essentially it is a very delicate distillation process that scientifically produces very little destruction to the core essence of the wine. While I'd be lying if I suggested that the wines undergoing this process de exhibit a consistent "unique" flavor profile (lighter flavors, less acidity, and a generally more watery mouth feel), it isn't altogether unpleasant.

Part of the reason for this change in flavor and texture is that ethanol does affect the perception of flavor, and in some cases, S02 and other elements may be removed at the same time as ethanol.

Regardless, though, this technology is proven to preserve most of the phenolic compounds, stilbenes, flavonols, and other core chemical compounds that come together to create your favorite vintages. The technology has been tested by hundreds of winemakers around the world on a wide variety of wines. If you' 'd like to get more nerdy, check this report from ACS Publications.

This is the process used by both Fre and Giesen 0%.

Giesen 0% - New Zealand, Good Wines, Less Alcohol

On the other hand, you have the three Giesen brothers - Theo, Alex, and Marcel who draw from family tradition and experience in New Zealand to create Giesen 0% and Giesen Light wines.

While I don't know that I would say that their products are inherently masculine... I felt like I was enjoying a bottle of wine when I pulled their Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris from the chiller, rather than getting a bottle for Heather to enoy. Personally, I look at this and appreciate their effort because it is all too easy to go down the road of targetting the American housewife wine drinker who puts a couple of ice cubes in her white zin to create her own "low alcohol" wine - than it is to recognize that there are millions of men like Jim and ultimately myself one day that have medicines and health issues that may proclude me from enjoying my favorite go-to vintages.

With that being said, let's make some food and taste-test these wines!

Fre vs Giesen 0% Which Came Out On Top?

The results were similar across a variet of different wines from both brands. Both brands come in about $15-20 retail and all of the wines use the same spinning cone process. As a result, the artifacts from the process are going to be similar in all of the instances.

That said, I picked the Sauvignon Blanc from Giesen 0% as my favorite, though Heather and Jim thought it had too much of a limey flavor. For myself, this was in large part because it still had a strong discernable flavor, and the lemon-lime paired well with the shrimp.