Almost a quarter of Australians don’t, so you are hardly alone. And even if you do enjoy a drink or two, there are so many times when you choose not to have alcohol, such as when you’re the night’s nominated skipper.
Once upon a time you might have stuck to mass-produced soft drink or mineral water, but life shouldn’t be so bland. There are many great alcohol-free options created in our own backyard.
Funk Cider makes a range of healthy sodas that also taste delicious. Made from local fruit, they have been crafted with the same love as the popular ciders and come in lemon ginger, passionfruit and coconut, lime and vanilla.
The Swan-Valley based company has also partnered with Prepare Produce Provide, to support youth mentoring and employment program Djinda Ngardak, to create Kepa Kwab (beautiful water) soda. Made from finger lime juice, blood lime juice, strawberry gum and rosella, it’s sure to make you feel special.
Why not add a little sparkle with NewLeaf Orchard’s array of cold-pressed and filtered juices? Based in Manjimup, NewLeaf uses fresh local fruit, including Pink Lady and Fuji apples and strawberries, to make a range of sparkling juice. Naturally, there are no additives and you can be assured you are getting 100 percent fruit.
Another refreshing local drink is Bravo Gazpacho. Yes, gazpacho is a traditional Spanish soup, but it’s also regularly consumed as a drink. Bravo Gazpacho owner Sonia reckons this tomato-based ‘super drink’ goes down a treat on a hot day. Perfect for parties by the pool or a quick pick-me-up any time.
We can’t forget the dairy lovers, either. Brownes Dairy has been lifting spirits with its Chill range of iced coffee, chocolate and strawberry milk for decades. Served over ice, they make a refreshing drink any time of day.
Bannister Downs Dairy uses premium milk to create flavoured drinks, including chocolate, spearmint and cherry. Or how about a mango smoothie? Made with low fat milk, mangoes and apple juice, this tropical treat that has the look and feel of a creamy cocktail (without the alcohol, of course).
There are also a lot more options for non-drinkers when you dine out, too. When you’re choosing a restaurant, check out the drinks menu as well as the food before you book. Amelia Park Restaurant may be nestled amid the vineyards, for example, but owners Blair and Renee Allen know that diners are increasingly seeking more non-alcoholic options. They even found another local provider at Buy West Eat Best’s annual Meet the Buyer event.
Whenever you are in party-planning mode, think about those who don’t drink (even if you do) and, of course, think local. There are so many delicious options out there to keep everyone happy.