Why alcohol-free spirits and mocktails are the hottest trend for your store

Over the past few years, there has been a significant rise in the popularity of alcohol-free beverages across Europe. The “sober curious” movement,  where individuals choose to explore life without alcohol out of curiosity rather than necessity, has gained traction and is proving to be more than just a fleeting trend. It has definitely encouraged the development and consumption of sophisticated, alcohol-free options.

The term “mocktail” originates from a blend of “mock” and “cocktail.” Essentially, it denotes a beverage that mirrors traditional cocktails but lacks alcohol. Mocktails come in various forms, ranging from non-alcoholic versions of well-known cocktails like virgin mojitos or virgin piña coladas to bespoke creations specifically crafted for alcohol-free consumption, often featuring fruit juices or herbal infusions.

In recent years, Europe has witnessed a notable surge in the popularity of alcohol-free beverages. This trend is driven by a variety of factors, including shifting consumer preferences towards healthier lifestyles, heightened awareness of the negative health impacts of alcohol consumption, and a broader cultural shift towards moderation and mindfulness.

Gone are the days when consumers of non-alcoholic beverages were limited to soft drinks and fruit juices. Today, the market has expanded significantly to accommodate the growing demand for alcohol-free options. This expansion reflects consumers’ desire to enjoy social occasions without the need for alcohol.

In response to this trend, hospitality professionals and mixologists have embraced creativity, offering enticing and innovative alcohol-free or mocktail menus. No longer confined to sparkling water and mint leaves, mocktails now showcase intricate flavour combinations meticulously crafted to delight the palate.

Brands have joined the alcohol-free party with new, innovative products to cater to this burgeoning demand. From alcohol-free aperitifs and 0% beer to ready-made mocktails, the market is booming with alternatives that appeal to both industry professionals and the general public. With an emphasis on new flavours and reimagined classics, consumers have an abundance of options to explore and enjoy in the evolving landscape of alcohol-free beverages.

Discover a selection of our finest European alcohol-free drink brands available at Ankorstore.

Made in France and founded in 2020, this brand truly reinvented the idea of an aperitif with its alcohol-free spirits! Valérie De Sutter, the founder, and Flavio Angiolillo, a renowned mixologist, have worked together to create tasty and original products. You can find their delicious mocktail recipes, like “This is not a Basil Smash” and “This is not Spritz Milano Centro”, on their website. 

Our top 3 picks:

Next, we head to La Rochelle in the Southwest of France to discover the brand OPTIMÆ. “Distilled drinks without alcohol and without sugar, for a tasting without constraint,”OPTIMÆ offers distinctive botanical flavours that have won over Michelin-starred chefs such as Philippe Etchebest and Christopher Coutanceau. We can’t get enough of their recipes like Babylon Tonic and Atlantis Sunset. 

Flagship alcohol-free spirits: 

Discover the colourful world of Ousia alcohol-free cocktails. Made from all-natural ingredients, they let you enjoy the flavours of the best-known cocktails, without the side-effects of alcohol. Made in France, the brand offers a range of products that will appeal to your customers looking for ready-made mocktails.

Our favourites: 

Created in 2022, this brand will appeal to your customers with its sophisticated design and truly artisanal beverages. Organic and low in sugar, their products are divided into two collections: aperitifs in spirits and “garden bubbles” (0% fizz). We adore their Bloomy Mary recipe.

Must-try products: 

Germany is the proud origin of Dr. Jaglas, an exceptional brand of non-alcoholic spirits. Dr. Jaglas perfectly embodies a rich family heritage, decades of shared expertise, and unique, original recipes. To delve deeper into the brand’s story and vision, read our exclusive interview with their CEO.

The brand’s bestsellers: 

A must for all ginger Lovers! Gimber, a Belgian brand, presents a 100% organic concentrate made with ginger, lemon, herbs, and spices. Perfectly crafted for mixing with sparkling water or creating robust mocktails, Gimber definitely delivers on flavour. For the style-savvy, Gimber also offers a beautifully designed limited-edition bottle in collaboration with Diane von Furstenberg.

Not to be missed: 

Sapinca’s description says it all: organic, vegan, 100% natural, and alcohol-free. This vibrant Dutch brand with South American flair offers a range of products bursting with bold flavours and rich colours. Crafted from roots sourced from South America and Europe, including ashwagandha, maca, yacon, tapioca, and ginger, Sapinca’s alcohol-free drinks promise to take your mocktails on a flavorful journey.

Must-try elixirs: