April’s Alcohol Awareness Month is about increasing consumer and industry awareness of how to consume and sell alcohol responsibly. The emerging category rooted in alcohol responsibility is non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages.
In 2020 the low-alcohol and non-alcoholic category saw a 23.8% increase over 2019. (Total Nielsen measured off-premise channels; Data WE 10/24/2020). In the past three years, non-alcoholic menu offerings have increased by 200%, supporting the consumer’s demand for more alcohol-conscious beverage options in bars and restaurants. (MMI Menu incidence Q3 2017-2020). The trends don’t stop with on-premise. Off-premise shoppers are exploring the category as well.
Studies have shown that the category is frequently shopped by those who consume alcohol on a regular basis. 77% of non-alcohol buyers also purchase alcoholic beer, wine, and spirits, either for themselves or for someone else. For low-alcohol buyers that number increases to more than 90% of the segment shoppers will also purchase a product with a higher alcohol content. (Nielsen Homescan Premium; Total US; DATA WE 10/3/2020) .
If you are looking for drink inspiration, Sly Cosmopoulos, Director of Beverage Marketing at RNDC, is shaking up no-proof and low ABV cocktails throughout April. Today we have two delicious, alcohol-conscious cocktails that are easy to whip up at home and are a great offering for bars and restaurants.
The Brambler (No-Proof)
2 oz Gin Alternative (Zero ABV)
.75 oz Honey Simple Syrup*
.5 oz Lemon Juice
4 Blackberries
Muddle, Shake Over Ice, Strain Into Coupe Glass, Garnish Mint Sprig
*Honey Simple Syrup: Boil Equal Parts Honey And Water
Blueberry Hustle (Low ABV)
2 oz Dry Vermouth
.5 oz Blueberry Puree
.5 oz Lime Juice
3 oz Club Soda
Shake Over Ice, Top Off With Soda, Roll, Strain Into Collins Glass Over Fresh Ice.
Garnish With Mint Sprig And Fresh Blueberries
If you are looking for no-proof, non-alcoholic, or low ABV products to offer at your store or bar, eRNDC has a curated list of products ready to shop. Sign in to eRNDC today and shop through our Alcohol Awareness and Responsibility explore tile for a list of offerings in your market.
Take a look at this infographic for more consumer insights, and remember to check back for two more recipes on April 19th!