Non-alcoholic, alcohol-free, alcohol removed, alcohol alternative, alcohol reduced … do they all mean the same thing? 

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Not on your NoLo Life!

Refresh your vocab so you can talk the NoLo talk, even if you don’t walk the NoLo walk!

“Non-Alcoholic” is Non-Cool

We don’t use “non-alcoholic” these days.  The negative connotation of “non” is, well, negative!  And who wants to associate with the label: “alcoholic” (there’s a reason why AA meetings are held underground)?  So, NA is now N/A!  Ditch the term in favour of the far more choice-affirming AF!

“Alcohol-free” is Cool AF!

Alcohol free (AF) is a catch-all term for any beverage that doesn’t have alcohol in it.

“Alcohol removed” for NOLO Fence-Hoppers

Alcohol removed (AR) drinks are AF brews (usually wine or beer), that have been through the same process of production as a traditional alcoholic beverage, with a final stage of removing the alcohol through a distilling process.  These drinks are best for those who love their wine/beer but just don’t want the alcohol for the evening (delegated driver), the training period, the pregnancy or life!

“Alcohol Alternatives” for Adventurous NoLo Pioneers

You’ll often find brands such as NON listed as AF wine.  Although they are not in the same league as AR wine, they are a nice alternative to wine.  Alcohol alternatives use aromatic botanicals to create a sophisticated drinking experience.  Some even use spices such as cayenne pepper to give you a little burn in the back of the throat that mimics a kick of alcohol.

“Mid-strength” for Safer Drinking

Alcohol consumption no longer needs to be an all or nothing decision.  There are now many beer and wine labels who have introduced mid-strength (or “middies”) to their range. This is the ideal option for designated drivers, on-call workers and anyone wanting to reduce their alcohol intake without giving it up all together. Mid-strength drinks, as the term indicates, usually has about half the alcohol of a regular serve.  But it’s worth checking the actual alcohol content, as it can vary.

“Adult soft drinks” for No-Nevers

Don’t you just hate it when you ask what AF options are available and get pointed to the kiddie’s drink section of the menu?!  Adult soft drinks go beyond the typical coke or lemonade and offer a sophisticated carbonated experience bursting with flavour but not necessarily with sugar and colourants!  These drinks are the favourites of the No-Nevers (those who have never been alcohol drinkers), who aren’t looking for an alcohol-mimicking non-tipple, but rather, a delicious drink to accompany their night out with style, taste and flair.