Australia's relationship with alcohol is not what it used to be.
What was once a nation proud of its drinking culture is now shifting towards an almost obsessive focus and curiosity with wellness.
A 2024 ANZ Food for Thought Report suggests that the global non-alcoholic drinks market will grow at an annual rate of 8 per cent, reaching US$43 billion by 2027.
These figures suggest something far more than a fad - we’re witnessing a fundamental shift at an individual and cultural level.
But why, and what’s in it for you?
In this article, we delve into the various influences driving this revolution and examine the role that non-alcoholic wine, in particular, can play.
We also suggest trying some of Edenvale’s most popular wines so you get a (literal) taste for the trend that is here to stay…
A Focus on Healthy Lifestyles
The rise in healthier food categories, such as organic and gluten-free, has had a ripple effect across the broader food industry. People are putting more thought into what they consume across the board. While an abundance of food and drinks on the market still contain high fat and sugar content, Australians are nonetheless exploring healthier alternatives.
This conscious consumption extends to drinks, and beverages with no- or low- alcohol are proving healthier options than their alcoholic counterparts. Although the fermentation process in wine-making involves sugar, removing alcohol reduces calories. So if you’re watching your waistline but don’t want to suffer from #FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), Edenvale wine is a great alternative.
However, the health benefits of non-alcoholic wine don’t end there. The liver, heart, kidneys and brain all benefit from dry time both in the short and long term.
Avoiding Wine Whilst Pregnant or Taking Medication
It’s well known that drinking alcohol during pregnancy can interfere with the development of a baby’s organs and brain.
And most of us have probably taken medications that come with a clear warning to avoid alcohol.
Still, #FOMO can be a powerful persuader!
That’s why it’s great to see alcohol-removed wine alternatives offering a way to enjoy life’s little pleasures, without compromise.
Influencers Are Having an Impact
Social media and ‘influencers’ have a huge effect on Australians’ decision-making, with many social media pages devoted to healthier living. Stephanie Miller, Kayla Itsines, Rachel Finch, Bree Lenehen are just some of the names Aussies turn to for wellness news and inspiration. And others like The Mindful Mocktail are serving up delicious ways to enjoy non-alcoholic beverages.
The internet and social media have made us more educated on health matters than ever before. Online information on the benefits of abstaining from alcohol is readily available, making it easy for anyone to become better informed.
Follow Edenvale on Instagram for plenty of non-alcoholic lifestyle inspiration.
Getting Drunk Is No Longer the Done Thing
Once upon a time, fitting in invariably meant drinking, often as much as humanely possible. Even Australian Prime Ministers and sporting stars were once lauded for their ability to ingest alcohol in vast amounts as quickly as possible.
If Bob Hawke were leading the nation now and boasting about his drinking records at Oxford University, we doubt he’d be dismissed as “just being a larrikin”. Instead, we’d probably be asking if he was fit for office. And if a professional cricketer drank 52 cans of beer on a flight over to London, they’d possibly be stood down rather than declared a legend.
Society has sobered up and no longer sees excessive drinking as aspirational. Drinking copious amounts of alcohol, becoming as inebriated as possible, and being intoxicated around children have become increasingly unacceptable behaviours.
Remarkable Alcohol-Removal Technology
Due to industry innovation and the pursuit of better alternatives, the quality of drinks in the low- and non-alcoholic categories has improved exponentially.
Since our inception, Edenvale has been at the sharp end of pioneering alcohol-removal technology. Indeed, our new (ish) $ 5 million facility in the Murray-Darling uses highly advanced technology that not only improves our production and environmental efficiencies, but also creates far superior-tasting wines.
Discover Edenvale Wines
We’ve looked at the top reasons for the increasing popularity of non-alcoholic wine; now it’s time to stop talking and start sipping! Edenvale crafts a wide range of non-alcoholic sparkling wines, including white, rosé, red and mulled wines.
What takes your fancy? Discover all our collections today.
The future of low and no alcohol beverages
Thanks to greater awareness and social acceptance, the trend in Australia towards drinking beverages with low or no alcohol is growing.
With great options available, such as Edenvale alcohol-removed wines, the trend is set to continue for some time, which is a positive sign for the health and wellbeing of Australians.
FAQ
Why Are People Drinking Less Alcohol in Australia?
There are many reasons Australians are reaching for zero-alcohol beverages. These include:
- A desire to prioritise wellness.
- A shift to more conscious consumption.
- A growing stigma towards alcoholic intoxication.
- The remarkable improvements in alcohol-removal winemaking technology.
Do Alcohol-Removed Wines Taste Like Regular Wine?
Edenvale winemakers are fastidious about staying faithful to traditional winemaking techniques. We go to great lengths to be as unobtrusive as possible when crafting our wines, so that the fruit is free to do what it does best.
As a result, our wines exhibit all the characteristics and flavour profiles you expect from alcoholic wine… Except for the alcohol!
Is the Sober Curious Movement Just a Trend?
Dismissing the sober curious movement as a fad would be failing to understand just how established it has become worldwide, and particularly in Australia.
The non-alcoholic beverage sector is anticipated to continue growing at an 8% annual rate, suggesting this is a trend that isn’t just here to stay; it’s only going to get bigger.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making dietary changes or if you have health concerns. Individual results may vary, and non-alcoholic wine may not be suitable for everyone, including pregnant women or those with alcohol sensitivities.
