Many customers ask me, “Jeremias, what’s the difference between non-alcoholic wine and a proxy? Is alcohol-free beer really the same as the real thing?” These questions come up all the time. So, let me take you on a journey through the different categories that make up this growing universe.
1. Non-Alcoholic Wines
When people hear “non-alcoholic wine,” they often imagine grape juice—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Non-alcoholic wines are made just like traditional wines, with fermentation and aging, but the alcohol is later removed using methods like vacuum distillation, reverse osmosis, or spinning cone technology. The result? A drink that still has the complexity, tannins, and aromas of wine but without the alcohol. Whether you’re a fan of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a bold Tempranillo, there’s a non-alcoholic wine for you.
2. Alcohol-Free Beers
Beer lovers are always skeptical—until they taste a great alcohol-free beer. Modern brewing techniques allow brewers to either remove alcohol after fermentation or use yeast strains that naturally produce very little alcohol. From hoppy IPAs to malty stouts, alcohol-free beers today are crafted with just as much attention to detail as their alcoholic counterparts, making them a fantastic choice.
3. Non-Alcoholic Spirits
I often hear, “But how can you have a gin without alcohol?” The answer lies in distillation and botanicals. Non-alcoholic spirits mimic traditional liquors using herbs, spices, and distillation techniques to create depth and complexity. Whether it’s a juniper-forward gin alternative or a smoky whiskey-inspired drink, these spirits bring sophistication to any cocktail—minus the hangover.
4. Kombucha
Ah, kombucha! Some love it, some need a little convincing, but there’s no denying its uniqueness. Made by fermenting tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), kombucha has a tangy, slightly fizzy taste and is packed with probiotics. In Portugal, kombucha has gained significant popularity, with many consumers. However, in other markets, it remains more of a niche product, sometimes viewed as an acquired taste. I often recommend it to customers looking for a refreshing, gut-friendly drink with a little funk and personality.
5. Functional Beverages
This category is exploding right now. More and more people are looking for drinks that do more than just taste good—they want added health benefits. Whether it’s adaptogenic drinks with ashwagandha for stress relief, CBD-infused beverages for relaxation, or nootropic blends for mental clarity, functional beverages are designed to enhance well-being while keeping things delicious.
6. Craft Soft Drinks & Infused Waters
I always say: Not all soft drinks are created equal. Today’s craft soft drinks and infused waters are a far cry from the sugary sodas of the past. Made with natural botanicals, herbs, and exotic fruit infusions, they bring a whole new level of sophistication to the category. Think sparkling water with yuzu and elderflower or a lightly spiced herbal tonic—elegant, refreshing, and free from unnecessary sugars.
7. Proxies
Now, back to that original question: What’s the difference between non-alcoholic wine and a proxy? Proxies are not dealcoholized wines; instead, they’re carefully blended combinations of teas, fruit juices, vinegars, and botanicals designed to create a wine-like drinking experience. I often recommend them to people looking for food-friendly, complex alternatives to wine that don’t try to imitate, but rather reimagine, what a wine-like drink can be.
The Future of Non-Alcoholic Drinks
The world of alcohol-free beverages is more exciting than ever. What started as a small niche has grown into a dynamic industry, driven by people who love flavor and quality —just without the alcohol.
At The Other Bottle, we take pride in curating the best alcohol-free options available in Portugal and Spain. Whether you’re looking for something to pair with dinner, sip at a party, or just enjoy after a long day, there’s an incredible non-alcoholic alternative waiting for you.
Cheers ;)
