NonToxicated Newsletter June

Brand of the Month

(SOMEONE PLEASE TELL THE WEATHER!)

Brand of the Month - Dropping in with Big Drop Brewing

Anon’s English Garden is a summer favourite!

Why is creating a good alcohol free wine such a trial?

'Hot People Get 8 Hours of Sleep'

Discover a New Way to Unwind with WYNK: The Hemp-Derived Seltzer

What have we tasted this month?

Choose what you drink, not if you drink Competition!

Blazing Pineapple is back, and back with a BANG!

Home Farm Gin expands their range!

Making healthy choices: Make it easy and visible

The Changing Landscape of the UK Beverage Alcohol Market

Community Choice

Discounts Galore

NONTOX NEWS

Brought to you by Team Tox!

Leanne Marie Waite

Self Proclaimed Bossy Britches & Spreadsheet Maven

Lisa Marie Godfrey

Fabulous Founder & Taste Master

Laura Jennifer Edwards

Implementation Machine & Side Eye

Queen

WHY DOES IT SEEM THAT CREATING A GOOD ALCOHOL FREE RED WINE IS DIFFICULT?

We've all heard the rumors (and tasted our fair share) alcohol-free wines just don't compare to the real deal

Critics say it's about the taste, the aroma, or the “mouthfeel”, generally the statement is that these wines miss the mark when it comes to sophistication and complexity of the alcohol filled version

But have you ever wondered why it's such a challenge to capture that perfect red wine experience without the alcohol? Let's dive into the world of alcohol-free wines and uncover the secrets behind crafting a delicious, non-alcoholic sip!

Let’s talk about taste

The biggest challenge with alcohol-free wines is getting the taste right. In a traditional wine, alcohol plays the key role in extracting various compounds during the fermentation and maturation processes. These are the things that give wine its complex aromas and flavors helping to carry these delightful molecules into your nose and across your palate.

When you take the alcohol out, the wine often loses these characteristics, resulting in a flatter and less nuanced taste.

That’s why many early alcohol-free wines and some commercial brands ended up tasting more

like grape juice than a rich, luxurious red wine.

How it feels in the Mouth

Alcohol gives wine a smooth, slightly oily texture that adds to its body and finish. Without alcohol, this texture is often missing, making alcohol-free wines feel a bit watered down.

What are Tannins and why the heck do they matter?

Tannins are those special compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems that give red wines their structure and astringency.

They're key to pairing wine with food because they interact with proteins and fats to create a balanced dining experience.

Alcohol helps carry these tannins, making the interaction between food and wine more harmonious. Without alcohol, the tannin structure can be less effective, which makes the ability to pair food and alcohol free wines.

Production Costs

Creating a top-notch, alcohol-free red wine that truly captures the essence of its alcoholic counterpart is no small feat. The dealcoholisation process, along with the need for specialised ingredients and techniques, actually increases production costs. So, the idea that alcohol-free wines should be cheaper because they "don’t have the alcohol" doesn’t hold up. Alcohol itself is just a by-product of fermentation, contributing to the wine's flavor, viscosity, and of course, its intoxicating effects.

Less is More

We like to think of alcohol-free wine as "less is more." Without alcohol to fall back on, winemakers have developed new techniques to match, and even exceed, the qualities of traditional wine minus the downsides.

Just like with other beverages, opting for a slightly more expensive alcohol-free wine to enjoy with your meal will usually reward you with the complexity, texture, and layers of flavor that cheaper, commercial styles often lack. These lower-end options tend to rely on sweetness for mouthfeel, which doesn't pair as well with food. So, investing a bit more in your alcohol-free wine can make all the difference for a truly delightful dining experience.

Despite the challenges to production, the demand for high-quality, alcohol-free wines is on the rise, fueled by health-conscious consumers and those who prefer to skip the alcohol. This growing interest is driving innovation in winemaking techniques and technologies, making it an exciting time for winemakers.

From using new methods for more efficient and gentle alcohol removal to experimenting with wine structure and natural additives that mimic the mouthfeel of alcohol, the industry is evolving rapidly. It's an exciting frontier, and we're thrilled to see where these advancements will take us.

We are very excited to have Big Drop Brewing as our Brand of the Month for June.

Big Drop Brewing are pioneers in the non-alcoholic craft beer market, known for their innovative brewing techniques which deliver full-flavoured beers without the alcohol.

Their range includes everything from rich stouts and tangy IPAs to refreshing lagers, all meticulously crafted to ensure that those who choose not to drink alcohol don’t have to compromise on taste.

“For us, our passion is brewing the finest, tastiest craft beers we possibly can. And because tomorrow is always another day, it’s alcohol free.”

Big Drop are a brand that put living your best life at the very forefront of everything they do. With an enthusiastic manifesto that encourages “having good times that never end” and “Do what you love. Love what you do,” we love the seize the day and go for it vibes that are in every aspect of the Big Drop brand.

It’s a vibe we love to embody ourselves at NonTox so this month promises to be extra fun!

There are exciting things on the horizon at Big Drop Brewing, with info that we have the inside track on at NonTox HQ, that we know you should be champing at the bit to hear about!

To keep up with our Brand of the Month and get all the gossip before anyone else, make sure that you are signed up for the NonTox email list, and in our Facebook Group too!

Anon’s English Garden is a summer favourite!

Andy Clarke, Alan Titchmarch and special guests on Love Your Weekend had nothing but good things to say about Anon’s summer fruit cup, English Garden; whether mixing with traditional lemonade or ginger ale to give it a little kick, our favourite serving is mixed with sparkling wine (non-alcoholic or alcoholic!) to make an English Garden Royale, what’s your favourite?

25% off with NONTOX25

'HOT PEOPLE GET 8 HOURS OF SLEEP'

Lez Get Together Collective and Quality Time Company have teamed up to create In Bed By Ten, an alcohol-free warehouse dance party that wraps up by 10 p m , celebrating LGBTQ+ pride and Chicago house music The theme for the event is “Monochromatica,” so guests are encouraged to dress in a single color from head to toe.

The first event, scheduled for June 20 at Parker Karlov Events, 4055 W. Parker Ave., sold out quickly. Due to the overwhelming response, a second party is set for July 18. Keep an eye on Lez Get Together Collective and Quality Time Company’s social media for updates on future ticket sales.

A Community Focus

The founders of both groups, Daniela Cabada and Derrick Mathy, are dedicated to creating events where people can connect without alcohol. While many of their past events have been conversation-focused, In Bed By Ten offers a chance for everyone to dance together

"I’ve been sober for about a year and found that I don’t go out as much, but I still want to move my body with others," says Daniela Cabada, founder of Lez Get Together Collective. "Our slogan is, ‘Hot people get eight hours of sleep.’ We want to have fun without the hangover or staying up until 3 a.m."

Cabada started Lez Get Together Collective in January 2023 to build an alcohol-free community for sapphic Chicagoans What began as social mixers has expanded to include community service, like collecting clothing for migrant families and writing holiday cards for LGBTQ+ individuals estranged from their families

"It started as a booze-free mixer but has grown into a way to give back to the community," Cabada explains. "Now, it's a space where we can also support others."

Intentional Gatherings

Cabada and Derrick Mathy, founder of Quality Time Company, collaborated on In Bed By Ten because they share a passion for creating "intentional, communityconscious" events Mathy’s Quality Time Company focuses on unique activities that help people connect, from meditative breathwork sessions to outdoor picnics.

"For me, being in alcohol-centric spaces feels automatic," Mathy says. "Stepping into an alcohol-free space changes how I interact, the conversations I have, and even how I dance It’s a subtle but profound shift "

The event will feature house music from three LGBTQ+ Chicago-based DJs, creating a "hot, sexy vibe" perfect for dancing.

Connecting on a Deeper Level

In addition to the traditional dance party atmosphere and an open bar with non-alcoholic drinks, the organizers have added elements to foster connections between guests. Mathy has curated unique conversation starter cards for the bar and outdoor areas to help people strike up chats.

"We’re taking the classic night out and giving it a fresh twist," Mathy says. "With an outdoor area, guests can take breaks and have meaningful conversations."

In Bed By Ten promises to be a fantastic way to celebrate pride, connect with others, and enjoy a night out without alcohol. Join us for a night of dancing, community, and making new friends!

In 2018, the Farm Bill was passed in the USA to support farmers across the nation. This important piece of legislation also allowed for the mass production of hemp. Unlike cannabis, hemp contains very low levels of THC, the compound known for its calming and euphoric effects.

With the rise of sober curiosity, people around the world are looking for new ways to enjoy a buzz without the drawbacks of alcohol. Enter WYNK™, a hemp-derived, all-natural, and zero-calorie seltzer with 2.5 or 5 milligrams of THC per can.

"People who want to avoid the negative effects of alcohol are turning to cannabis drinks," shares Phil McFarland, General Manager for WYNK. "They love being able to enjoy a relaxing buzz whether they're at home with friends or out experiencing the nightlife in Nashville."

WYNK comes in delicious fruity flavors like juicy mango and black cherry. Each can contains equal parts THC and CBD, creating an “entourage effect” that delivers a calming yet bubbly buzz. You'll start to feel h ld d h off after about 90 minutes.

You can find WYNK in beverage retailers across 13 states, and it’s now rolling out in Nashville. Keep an eye out for it on shelves near you! Want to learn more? Visit drinkwynk.com.

WHAT HAVE WE TASTED THIS MONTH?

We have tasted MANY drinks in May and there are even more to come! They will all be covered in our Drink of the Day feature over on the Facebook Group and on Insta - but here’s a round up of some of our faves!

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It's described as "Slow brewed, authentic Fix8 kombucha paired with Sicilian orange and saffron, for a bright and uplifting drink. With added live cultures for targeted release in the gut Refreshing, bright, citrusy Only 35 calories per can "

Leanne’s Thoughts

On first taste it's also very orangey and it's got a good balance of sweetness. The after taste is definitely saffron but it's not over powering.It's got a good amount of fizz, it's lightly refreshing and has a slight tang to it Love the combination of Orange and Saffron very unusual!

Home Farm Zero Gin

Laura’s Thoughts

This smells and tastes divine. I love the flavours and would even be tempted to drink this served over ice without a mixer - an unknown for me.

It's got an excellent kick.

The packaging as you can see is splendid - a really pretty bottle.

Perfect for an after work tipple!

Self-ish Gut Friendly Pop

Laura’s thoughts

Self-ish gut friendly pop today for Laura's drink of the Day Peach and orange flavour I got this... In a sub box that does snacks here in the UK.

It's made with real fruit and delish.

Vegan friendly too!

Leanne’s Thoughts

he first thing I need to say is this...�������� ���� ������������ ������������ ������������ �������� ����

!

It does smell like a Pinot Grigiot

It's easy sipping, light, fruity, sweetish with a slight tartness...and has a slightly dry aftertaste....definitely resembles a Pinot Grigio I found it refreshing and enjoyable.

Leanne’s Thoughts

It smells sweet and gingery

The first tastes were tangy, sweet, gingery, citrusy and quite a bit of burn but in a good way!

It's a sweetish drink with a bitter aftertaste...like a citrus peel flavour

This is the kind of drink I describe as medicinal tasting...to me thats also a good thing! It's quite peppery and I would say the flavours are sweet sour tangy and fruity in that order!

Tenneyson

CHOOSE WHAT YOU DRINK, NOT IF YOU DRINK

Every drink on the menu at Ginny’s Cocktail Lounge at the Brunswick Aces Distillery, in the heart of Brunswick, Melbourne, is available with and without alcohol, ensuring that everyone who walks through their doors can share in the same delicious experience with their friends.

Book your table HERE

COMPETITION! COMPETITION!

It’s competition time! Our friends at Spirits of Virtue have a lovely hamper of their award-winning zero-proof spirits to give away to a lucky Non-Toxer in the UK.

Based in Scotland, they make handcrafted whisky, vodka, gin, rum and tequila alternatives that are low-calorie, vegan, gluten-free and Halal certified. Their award-winning brands include Scotch and American whisky alternatives Glen Dochus and SOBOUR, gin substitutes Pearsons and CeroCero, non-alc vodka USKO, rum alternative 270°, and Seven Giants, their take on tequila. Yes, non-alc tequila from Scotland! What’s more, the water at the heart of all their non-alc spirits has percolated through the majestic Cairngorm mountain range for over 50 years.

Here in the UK, you can find their brands on threshers.co.uk. Or get creative and enter this fab competition to win three bottles of their finest and some mixers in a very handy picnic hamper.

To enter, simply like SoV on FB or Insta (@spiritsofvirtue) and then comment on the competition post and tell us what kind of non-alc spirit/flavour combo you’d love to create with Spirits of Virtue!

BLAZING PINEAPPLE IS BACK, AND BACK WITH A BANG!

Coming in hot for the summer, the 2024 edition has undergone a tasty revamp, retaining just two of the original ingredients: pineapple and scotch bonnet. Plus we’ve cranked up the heat by adding habanero ready for the challenge?

Designed to embody the ultimate summer vibe, Blazing Pineapple will transport you to a tropical paradise, where you can almost taste the rum punch and feel the blazing sun, even if you're stuck lounging at home.

Enjoy tropical pineapple sweetness with notes of mandarin, peach, citrus, and a touch of ginger, all finished with a fiery kick from habanero and scotch bonnet. Blazing Pineapple is the ideal ingredient for all your tropical summer cocktails. Live now on the CROSSIP website.

Home Farm Gin expands their range!

Alongside Home Farm Gin Zero, a great alternative to a London Dry Gin, Home Farm are about to launch a new Rhubarb flavour which another chilli kick to help replicate the warmth you would get from alcohol but without the side effects!

You can pre-order this new flavour from the website in 70cl or 5cl sizes.

NonTox Team member Laura had the privilege of testing the Home Farm Zero this month and she absolutely loved it!

Here’s what she had to say:

“Home Farm Zero has an amazing warmth that I haven’t tasted in another AF gin. It has an amazing warm botanical taste - you get the flavours of the lemongrass, star anise and chilli in every sip. It’s beautifully balanced - not overpowering with chilli and is really flavourful. This is a firm favourite now in my own AF bar at home and highly recommend you try it for yourself”

Home Farm Gin is made with Norfolk water harvested from the farm itself from aquifer rock located around 20 m deep beneath the surface, filtered, purified and ready for distillation. Making it a true Norfolk Gin.

Making healthy choices: Make it easy and visible

As members of the NonToxicated community, we all know that availability, visibility and a good range of choices of alcohol free drinks in establishments that traditionally wouldn’t have them, is something that we want and need. It seems that scientific research backs us up! (Of course it does)

We know that making alcohol free beer more widely available on tap in pubs and bars might just nudge people towards healthier choices. According to recent research from the University of Bristol, the science backs us up.

There are so many reasons why a person might hesitate to try low or no alcohol beer, and this new study has found that making these drinks more visible and easier to purchase led to an increase in sales.

Researchers from the university's Tobacco and Alcohol Research Group, working with Bristol City Council, recruited 14 pubs and bars in Bristol. These venues had never offered alcohol-free beer on draught before. The study involved two intervention periods and two "control" periods over eight weeks.

During the first period, one draught alcoholic beer was replaced with an alcohol-free alternative. The second period was business as usual.

Results showed that when an alcohol-free option was available, pubs and bars sold, on average, 29 fewer liters of alcoholic beer per week the equivalent of 51 fewer pints, resulting in a 5% reduction in alcoholic beer sales.

Interestingly, this reduction was balanced by an equivalent increase in sales of alcohol-free beer, suggesting customers were choosing the healthier option. Importantly, the study found there was no impact on profit, meaning the change did not leave pubs and bars worse off.

Dr. Angela Attwood, associate professor in the Tobacco and Alcohol Research Group, has noted that while alcohol-free options have been available for a while, they lack the "visual prominence" and are rarely served on draught. "Our study showed that providing front-of-bar draught non-alcoholic options could lead to some customers switching from alcoholic drinks," she said. "This does not restrict consumer choice; in fact, it increases the options available to the customer, and at the same time could reduce population levels of alcohol consumption and improve public health."

At the University of York, researchers have stated that there isn't yet enough data on consumer behavior around no- and low-alcohol drinks to definitively claim they are a healthy alternative to alcohol. When they are talking about data, they of course are talking about big numbers and part of having enough data is time. So for now, we will have to wait on their conclusions!

But for now it looks like alcohol free beer is a good addition to availability in pubs, bars and clubs.... Like we didn’t already know that!

THE

CHANGING LANDSCAPE OF THE UK BEVERAGE ALCOHOL MARKET

The total beverage alcohol market in the UK is expected to experience slight declines in both volume and value, with a -1% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) projected over the next five years, according to new figures from the IWSR.

From 2022 to 2023, volumes in the UK dropped by -2%, continuing a trend seen over recent years (2018-2023 volumes fell at a CAGR of -1%). However, there's a bright spot: the no and low alcohol segment has been outpacing the overall market. This growth is driven by consumers' increasing preference for moderation and changes in excise duty.

Key Trends in the No/Low Alcohol Segment:

Volume Growth: The no/low segment saw a 47% increase in volume from 2022 to 2023. Looking ahead, it's expected to grow at a +19% CAGR from 2023 to 2028.

Market Value: By 2028, this segment is anticipated to add an incremental value of £0.8 billion.

Low Alcohol Beers: Sales of low alcohol beers nearly doubled in 2023, with further growth expected as many beer and wine brands lower their alcohol content to benefit from the duty regime.

However, the wine industry might face challenges as the temporary duty easement ends next year, likely leading to price increases for many still wines and a more complex trading environment for smaller businesses.

Patrick Fisher, IWSR's senior market analyst, noted, "In 2023, UK drinkers, facing rising prices and a cost-of-living crisis, prioritized value—whether that meant spending less on groceries, reducing visits to pubs, or opting for longer drinks."

The no and low alcohol market continues to evolve, with innovations beyond gin alternatives, including dark spirits and no-alcohol tequila alternatives. The latest consumer data shows a +17% growth in the no-alcohol drinker population in the UK in 2023, with a projected +4% volume CAGR from 2023 to 2028.

As Fisher highlighted, "Volumes of no alcohol spirits now comfortably surpass those of tequila in the UK," reflecting a significant shift in consumer preferences.

Overall, while traditional alcohol categories may face declines, the burgeoning no and low alcohol segment offers a promising area for growth and innovation, meeting the demands of increasingly health-conscious consumers

COMMUNITY CHOICE

The NonTox Facebook Community have been sharing their favourite discoveries this month so we thought we would highlight them for you here!

NonTox team member Leanne is loving Fix8 Kombucha’s Strawberry Basil flavoured offering

Nick at All Hail the Ale has shared some great drinks on his Youtube Channel icluding Mash Gang MG Cultra

Crossip’s Blazing Pineapple drops into NonTox HQ! Look for Drink of the Day tastings on this and more flavours in June.

Mood Enhancing & Functional Drinks

To get your FREE copy or submit your brand, make sure you are signed up to get NonTox emails.

HEROIC CHOICE

DISCOUNTSGALORE!

Bristol Beer Factory

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Uncool

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Citizen Spritz

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Fount Drinks

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ANON Drinks

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Drinks Kitchen

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Home Farm Gin

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JOMO Club are offering NonToxicated Members 35% discount off their first box!

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Reformed Characters

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Pentire Botanical Non-Alcoholic Spirits

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Talonmore Drinks

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Clean Break Brewing

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LA Brewery

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Intune Drinks

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Everleaf Drinks

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SPLASH Mixers

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