Nonalcoholic Drinks Are Having a Moment
Read Madison’s Full Article Here
Zero Proof Insights of Mpls St. Paul Magazine Article | by Cate
The Rise of Nonalcoholic Beverages in the Twin Cities
Nonalcoholic Drinks Are Having a Moment by Madison Bloomquist offers a compelling snapshot of the evolution of nonalcoholic beverages in the Twin Cities. Jen highlights a societal conundrum: people want to drink less but falter when faced with limited NA options.
Marvel Bar's Pioneering Exploration of Elevated NA Cocktails
In January 2020, I visited Minneapolis's historic Marvel Bar—a hidden gem exuding speakeasy elegance. This visit marked a pivotal moment in my journey to promote NA options. For 'Dry January,' Marvel Bar, led by non-drinker and manager Peder Schweigert, boldly explored elevated NA cocktails. He replaced traditional alcoholic offerings with a full menu of meticulously crafted NA cocktails, using ingredients from summer foraging expeditions. Local media hailed this innovative endeavor as a success, and the photo gallery below showcases the menu, highlighting the unique ingredients in Peder's creations. I had the pleasure of savoring 'The Lost Forty,' a warm concoction featuring lemon juice, pine flower honey, and a dash of CBD, a testament to Peder's early impact as a visionary in the NA Movement.
Unforgettable Marvel Bar Moments: A Serendipitous Connection Amidst Change
Visiting Marvel Bar at this time was an experience I will always cherish. In a fun and reflective coincidence, when Jen and I discuss this period—a time when we were strangers to each other—we discovered we were at the bar within the same 48-hour timeframe and had strikingly similar experiences. It was indeed a welcome change to the landscape of alcohol-laden venues. Unfortunately, Marvel Bar closed its doors for good following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dry Wit: Crafting NA Wine Alternatives with Botanical Blends
Peder and his business partner Megan Dayton have since created an NA wine alternative, wonderfully named Dry Wit. Their website describes their beverages as nonalcoholic blends of botanicals and juice for the wine occasion. In the context of wine, nonalcoholic wine alternatives (also called proxies) refer to a nonalcoholic substitute that mimics the taste, texture, and experience of traditional wine. They aim to offer a similar sensory experience, ranging from flavor profiles to mouthfeel, without the alcohol content. Dry Wit is now served in numerous local venues and has been embraced by the community. Once again, Peder's efforts continue to fortify the evolving NA movement.
Amplifying Communal Voices for NA Inclusivity
ZPC aims to amplify our communal voices to all those responsible for offering beverages in social spaces. Our mission is to make well-crafted NA options universally available, ensuring that choosing not to drink alcohol doesn't compromise quality or experience. While the article describes the local scene as still finding its "sober-curious sea legs," this phase can be seen as a sign of maturation. We're not merely on the brink; we're already navigating uncharted waters with a community swimming robustly alongside us. The NA Movement is not just a fleeting trend; it's an expression of a shared yearning for inclusivity and healthier choices.
