Sparkling Success: Zero Proof Collective Serves First NA Wine at Rosé Fest
Photography: Montana Scheff, @whittieragency, @thepassingshow
Zero Proof Insights | NA Wines Shine and Redefine
Written by Cate Faulkner
Introducing the first elevated NA (nonalcoholic) wines to a predominantly alcohol-centric affair like Rosé Fest can be daunting, but these moments offer unparalleled insights:
Presenting NA wine immediately amplifies awareness of the growing need for sophisticated NA beverage choices, shattering the outdated notion that alcoholic selections, sodas, and water are sufficient.
It offers a prime opportunity to refine consumer engagement strategies, swiftly introducing, captivating, and enlightening guests about the most innovative, and premium NA options gracing the market.
With each event, the process becomes more seamless as we observe firsthand the growing admiration for chic "adult" NA beverages, which are redefining the drinking culture and ensuring inclusivity at every social gathering. The future shines brightly.
Photography: Montana Scheff, @whittieragency, @thepassingshow
A mosaic unfolded before us, each frame a vibrant testament to the joy of discovery, capturing the radiant faces of those reveling in the amazing flavors of these exceptional alcohol-removed wines. Reactions varied from initial disinterest to unexpected surprise and genuine joy. At events like these, we are consistently reminded that most people have never tasted high-quality alcohol-removed wines and are unaware they even exist. It’s a bold reminder that while progress is being made, there is still a vast opportunity ahead for the industry. The increasing number of open-minded guests and their positive feedback illuminates the path ahead, but there remains much work to be done.
Picture Perfect Panoramic Pouring
It was a picture-perfect day as the Zero Proof Collective team poured the first and only alcohol-removed wines at Mpls St. Paul Magazine's Rosé Fest to celebrate National Rosé Day. The crowd of 800+ sipped, savored, and soaked up the sun, on one of the most beautiful days of the year. The setting at Kellogg Mall Park in St. Paul, MN, offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Mississippi River and the rugged beauty of the bluffs beyond. @mspmag
Blushing Beauties: Two Pink Fountains for Rosé Day
Guests delighted in the vibrant spectacle of two iconic fountains dyed a radiant pink with beet juice to celebrate Rosé Day! They strolled through lush, grassy expanses, wandered beneath vine-covered trellises, admired all the fresh flowers, and relaxed in the shade of the majestic trees.
Zero Proof, Full Impact
A colossal THANK YOU to our fabulous Zero Proof Collective team, who were there to talk about NA, serve NA, and capture some great moments! Each member brought a unique enthusiasm, making our tent a vibrant hub of excitement and conversation, truly embodying the spirit of inclusivity and innovation in the non-alcoholic beverage industry.
We are deeply grateful for their support and dedication throughout the long nine-hour day, which flew by thanks to their hard work and spirited presence. This event was not just about promoting NA wine but also about celebrating the teamwork and passion that defines Zero Proof Collective.
Ashley Sunderland @recoverygirlmn thesobercurator.com
Aimee Berg @aimeedberg
Debi Bach debibach
Jen Olafson @zeroprooflush
Jenny Moore @jennyraemooremt
Montana Scheff @thepassingshow
Photography: Montana Scheff, @whittieragency, @thepassingshow
For "Rosé ALL Day" We Poured Jøyus NA!
Jøyus Sparkling Rosé is a gold medal winner, chosen from among over 3,000 entries from over 31 countries at the San Francisco International Wine Competition (SFIWC), one of the oldest and largest rigorously blind competitions in the world. Our Rosé Fest guests were greeted with its captivating aroma of ripe blackberries, summer strawberries, and California citrus blossoms. On the palate, this sparkling rosé presents a perfect balance of Pacific northwest flavors, offering a vibrant and refreshing.
Jøyus Still Rosé has been awarded multiple Double Gold and Best in Class medals from the most prestigious wine competitions. This delightful and dry rosé charmed Rosé Fest attendees with its delicate notes of watermelon, ripe peaches, and fresh herbs that "dance in harmony" on the palate. Jøyus rosés exceeded all expectations, while enchanting both seasoned wine enthusiasts and those new to NA options with their exceptional quality, bringing joy to every glass!
Order Jøyus wines here
ONE of ONE's Award-Winning NA Wines: From Lodi to Gold
Brand new this year to the NA wine industry, ONE of ONE Alcohol Removed Wines represent a higher standard in the New Era. These nonalcoholic wines taste like wine and have already won gold, silver and bronze awards from the 2024 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC). ONE of ONE, from Lodi, California offers three varietals: Sparkling White Wine, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon - they truly are made by winemakers for wine drinkers!
Paul Scotto, 5th Generation Winemaker, ONE of ONE Wine Co.
Elevating Tradition: Paul Scotto’s Wine Evolution
As a fifth-generation winemaker, Paul Scotto was born and raised in the heart of California wine country. His family has been making wine for over 140 years, beginning in Ischia, Italy, in 1883. Paul's steadfast commitment to quality and passion for his craft have enabled him to push the boundaries of winemaking, creating new and exciting beverages for what he calls "The New Era." After three years of experimenting, Paul has developed ONE of ONE alcohol-removed wines using a revolutionary process that he helped to customize for wine. Paul's Vine to Bottle Process removes the alcohol while retaining more of the grape’s natural flavors, aromas, and health benefits. Paul's wines are truly a ONE of ONE creation, representing a new standard in the New Era of the adult nonalcoholic wine industry.
Order ONE of ONE wines here. Use code: WINEFEST15 for 15% off
Photography: Montana Scheff, @whittieragency, @thepassingshow
Sip Authenticity: Alcohol Removed Wine
ONE of ONE and Jøyus both use the phrase “alcohol removed wine” because it highlights that the beverage is genuine wine, without the alcohol. This distinction helps convey the quality and authenticity of the product, ensuring that consumers understand they are getting a true wine experience, not just a substitute. ONE of ONE also uses the phrase "Made by Winemakers for Wine Drinkers" to let consumers know that their products are an exceptional option to incorporate into their drinking rituals.
The Skinny on NA Wine: Sip Without the Calories
Guests are always shocked and surprised at the remarkably low calorie count of NA wine. While a typical 5 oz glass of wine with alcohol contains about 125 calories, its NA counterpart boasts a mere 15-20 calories per 5 oz serving.
As one discerning guest remarked, "The fact that I can drink an entire bottle and not be hungover the next day from the alcohol or the 500 calories is remarkable." This very low-calorie appeal has become a significant draw for health-conscious consumers looking to indulge without compromise.
Photography: Montana Scheff, @whittieragency, @thepassingshow
Drinking Habits: Opportunities With NA Wines That Shine!
There is a growing NA community that appreciates these offerings but has yet to explore them fully. Additionally, the sober curious, a term popularized by Ruby Warrington in her 2018 book Sober Curious, is an expanding group that wants to know more. However, the majority of people remain unfamiliar with these shining products and the bright, positive impact they can have on their lives and our culture at large. Serving and sharing NA wines shine a light on the incredible opportunities to redefine drinking habits, allowing people to enjoy sophisticated beverages without the effects of alcohol, thus illuminating a path toward a more inclusive and health-conscious drinking culture.
Photography: Montana Scheff, @whittieragency, @thepassingshow
The Human Element: Sharing Insights and Stories Over a Glass
Rarely does a guest simply "sip and slip away"; they stay to ask questions, share insights, and often recount their personal life stories. This part of the normalization process requires a gentle ear, extensive knowledge, contemporary language, and a touch of science to help guests gain clarity about the industry.
Louis cherishes the ritual of unwinding with friends after work, typically over a bottle of rosé. It's his love language. However, with a demanding job and the realization that he doesn't feel great the next day after half a bottle of wine, he was thrilled to discover something he could enjoy frequently without the aftereffects of alcohol.
Brittany, with her science background, was eager to learn more about how the alcohol is removed from the wine. As I explained the intricacies of the process, I watched her appreciation grow, leading to a newfound value for alcohol-removed wine.
Misguided Notions: NA Beverages and Age Appropriateness
While Louis and Brittany appreciated the sophistication and health benefits of alcohol-removed wines, one woman, already tipsy from her rosé with alcohol, suggested the reckless idea of hosting a faux "wine party" with alcohol-removed wines for her 10-year-old daughter and friends. This notion, rooted in her own questionable drinking habits, underscores a significant misconception. It’s crucial to emphasize that elevated NA beverages, especially ones that replicate their alcoholic counterparts, are strictly intended for adult enjoyment.
Thank You, Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, for Embracing Inclusivity
Heartfelt thanks to Shelly Crowley, Kim Birkland, Holly Dyson, and Media Tafreshi from Mpls. St.Paul Magazine for being so forward-thinking about nonalcoholic options and helping to pave the way for a more inclusive and mindful drinking culture. We appreciate you inviting our team to serve NA wines - it was fun to let them SHINE!
© 2024 Cate Faulkner
