Charleston SC, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Charleston’s culinary scene continues to evolve with the launch of Sorelle and Sipland’s new zero-proof cocktail menu, inspired by the alt drinking trend. The menu offers a range of non-alcoholic cocktails, featuring innovative drinks like the Tomato Water Martini and La Dolce Vita spritz. The rise in popularity of these beverages reflects a greater consumer shift towards healthier, mindfulness-based drinking habits, particularly among younger adults. This new cocktail menu highlights the demand for sophisticated non-alcoholic options, as the market for these drinks is projected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Charleston, Sorelle and Sipland have unveiled a new zero-proof cocktail menu that aligns with the rising trend of alt drinking, highlighting non-alcoholic options in a burgeoning market. The launch reflects a shift in consumer preferences as Americans increasingly seek alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages. This trend has gained significant traction, particularly among adults under 35.
Among the standout offerings is the Tomato Water Martini, featuring a unique blend of Seedlip Grove 42, house-made tomato water, lemon, saline, and a hint of hot sauce. The menu also includes creative concoctions like La Dolce Vita, an Italian-inspired spritz, and the Palmetto Paloma. These drinks showcase a dedication to flavor and presentation, catering to a growing appetite for sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails.
The increasing popularity of these beverages is backed by statistical insights from a 2023 Gallup poll, revealing a decline in drinking rates among Americans, with figures dropping from 72% to 62% over the past two decades. This shift can be attributed to a growing emphasis on health and mindfulness, particularly among younger consumers prioritizing mental clarity and overall well-being.
Emily Heintz, founder of Sèchey, a Charleston retail shop specializing in no- and low-alcohol beverages, notes that consumers are moving towards drinks that emphasize quality ingredients and consider their health implications. The zero-proof cocktail market has evolved, with bartenders leveraging infused syrups and precise techniques to create flavorful options without resorting to excessive sugars or juices.
Interest in the origins and quality of food and drink is becoming increasingly prevalent. This demand for wellness extends beyond just food, as more clients seek out drinks that complement a healthier lifestyle. Non-alcoholic cocktails are now subject to rigorous testing processes akin to traditional cocktails, ensuring that they meet high standards for flavor and presentation.
Charleston’s beverage landscape is rapidly adapting, with numerous venues embracing non-alcoholic options. 167 Raw Oyster Bar offers drinks like the Grapefruit Spritz and Ginger Mule, while Abbracci Italian Cuisine features the Give Me Mora and a non-alcoholic take on the classic Negroni, dubbed NOgroni. Other local establishments, including Beautiful South, Félix Cocktails et Cuisine, and Kultura, also present inventive non-alcoholic choices, solidifying the growing trend.
Sipland, co-founded by Molly Fienning and Lauren Hakmiller, is at the forefront of promoting non-alcoholic beverages through events like pop-ups and specialized gatherings. Their efforts include a recent espresso martini-themed event, plus the introduction of Boston’s first nonalcoholic beer garden, known as Notoberfest.
The nonalcoholic beverage market is anticipated to expand significantly, currently valued at around $13 billion and projected to experience an annual growth of 7% through 2027. This growth is spurred by over 40% of Americans actively seeking to reduce their alcohol intake, indicating a notable demand for creative and enjoyable non-alcoholic alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is alt drinking?
Alt drinking refers to the trend of consuming non-alcoholic or low-alcohol beverages as alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks.
What are some drinks on the new zero-proof cocktail menu?
The zero-proof cocktail menu includes the Tomato Water Martini, La Dolce Vita spritz, and Palmetto Paloma, among others.
Why are non-alcoholic beverages gaining popularity?
Non-alcoholic beverages are gaining popularity due to a growing focus on health and wellness, especially among younger consumers who prioritize mental clarity and social interactions without the effects of alcohol.
What is the projected growth of the nonalcoholic beverage market?
The nonalcoholic beverage market is currently valued at approximately $13 billion and is expected to grow by 7% annually through 2027.
Key Features of the New Zero-Proof Cocktail Menu
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Menu Theme | Focus on non-alcoholic beverages including innovative cocktails. |
| Signature Drink | Tomato Water Martini featuring Seedlip Grove 42 and house-made ingredients. |
| Market Trends | Growing demand for low- and no-alcohol options among Americans, especially young adults. |
| Increased Popularity | More venues in Charleston are offering non-alcoholic cocktails. |
| Market Growth | Projected annual growth of 7% leading to a market worth $13 billion by 2027. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston’s Cocktail Scene Embraces Creativity and Innovation
Charleston’s Rise in Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Options
Additional Resources
- CHS Today: Sorelle and Sipland Unveil New Zero-Proof Cocktail Menu
- Wikipedia: Cocktails
- Charleston City Paper: Summer Spotlight on Hangover-Free Cocktails
- Google Search: Non-Alcoholic Drinks
- Bon Appétit: Top Spots to Drink in Charleston This Spring
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cocktail
- Page Six: Inside Craig Conover and Austen Kroll’s New Charleston Bar
- Food & Wine: Target Carding for Non-Alcoholic Drinks
- Post and Courier: Sipland and Nonalcoholic Beverage Scene in Charleston
- Google News: Non-Alcoholic Cocktails
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
