Three Ways to Level Up Your Alcohol-Free Beverages

Chances are you’ve already ramped up your alcohol-free options in the past couple of years as a response to the lower rates of drinking in the U.S. and if you haven’t modernized your offerings in the face of this growing trend, you may be leaving value on the table.

Fortunately, elevating your alcohol-free or low-alcohol options doesn’t have to be complicated, costly, or any less festive than serving boozy offerings. By incorporating, say, functional beverages, setting up a tea bar, and offering spirit-free flights, meeting planners can create a best-in-class beverage experience that satisfies a variety of tastes and preferences and also facilitates inclusivity and wellness. So, the next time you’re planning an event, use these ideas to mix up your spirit free offerings and leave a lasting impression—that’s not a hangover.

1. Functional Beverages

Modern beverages  include functional ingredients that help keep attendees’ energy levels up and their minds sharp. Consider creating a booze free menu based around the following ingredients, which don’t just add flavor, they also offer health benefits, giving them added bang for the buck.

● Electrolytes. Some you may have heard of include sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, chloride, and bicarbonate. These essential minerals, which help regulate fluid levels, can be found in coconut water, watermelon juice, and cucumbers, which are all delicious on their own or blended into other nonalcoholic beverages.

● Nootropics. These can include ingredients like ginseng, L-theanine, and green tea extract, all shown to enhance cognitive function. Think about mixing them into juices or teas.

● Adaptogens. These natural substances that help the body adapt to stress can be found in ingredients like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil, all of which can be incorporated into low- or alcohol-free beverages.

2. Tea Bars

Tea has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially among Gen Z, who are attracted to its variety of flavors and health benefits. Offering a tea bar is an inventive alcohol-free alternative that can cater to your youngest attendees. Try presenting a wide range of teas—served iced or hot—from classic black and green teas to herbal and fruit-infused options (which can be mixed with one another). A jasmine tea lemonade or a spiced chai mocktail can offer a refreshing and complex flavor profile without the need for alcohol.

3. Spirit-Free Flights

One of the more innovative trends in the beverage industry is the concept of spirit-free flights. These flights mimic the sophistication and team-building experience of traditional spirits tastings but without the alcohol, making them perfect for corporate events and networking sessions. Try offering a selection of spirit-free options, such as nonalcoholic wines, beers, and distilled spirits. Present them in a stylish manner, similar to traditional flights, with tasting notes and pairing suggestions. Optional: Serve with snacks or small bites.

Or, engage attendees by incorporating elements like aroma kits, flavor wheels, and guided tastings led by a knowledgeable host. This not only educates attendees about the nuances of different nonalcoholic beverages but also fosters a sense of community and togetherness— team bonding at its finest.