
In recent years, a quiet but powerful shift has taken place in women’s wellness culture: more women are choosing to cut back on alcohol—not out of necessity, but out of intention. Whether it’s to improve sleep, balance hormones, or simply feel more present, the rise of nonalcoholic options is allowing women to rethink the role alcohol plays in their lives without sacrificing the pleasure, ritual, or style of a well-crafted drink or an ice-cold brew after time outdoors.
Health experts have long urged moderation when it comes to alcohol. According to the CDC, women should limit alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day. Regular drinking—especially over time—has been linked to increased risks of breast cancer, liver disease, and mental health challenges. And yet, for many women, the choice to drink has less to do with excess and more to do with habit: a glass of wine to mark the end of the day, a cocktail to celebrate the weekend, a mimosa at brunch.
But what happens when you want the moment, not the buzz?
That’s where the new generation of nonalcoholic beverages comes in. Today’s options go far beyond sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a super sweet fruity mocktail (yuck!). The new players in the industry are complex, beautifully packaged, and intentionally made to elevate the ritual of drinking without the aftereffects. For women who want to be mindful without feeling like they’re missing out, these alternatives offer the best of both worlds.
Booze-Free Options for Summer
This summer we will be entertaining a ton and enjoying as many boat rides, golf rounds and sunsets that we can. What’s on my bar and in my fridge? A mix of traditional offerings like rosé, Lawson’s Finest beers and Lillet right alongside some newer alcohol-free options. Here are three standout brands leading the charge*:
*note: all these links, including Amazon are affiliate links so I will get a small portion of each sale. Also, note, I’ve tried EVERY ONE of the drinks I’m recommending.
1. Athletic Brewing Co.
This trailblazing brand is redefining what beer can be. Crafted for active, health-conscious consumers, Athletic Brewing’s nonalcoholic beers are full of flavor and brewed with real hops and malt. Whether you prefer a light golden ale or a hoppy IPA, the brand’s award-winning lineup offers the satisfaction of a craft beer—without the hangover. This is what you’ll want to pack in the cooler to enjoy after a hike or mountain bike adventure.Â
- Perfect for: socializing, post-workout wind-downs, or a backyard BBQ.Â
- Swap: IPA for an Athletic Brew.
- Get it here: Amazon carries them here and you can also get subscriptions here so you never run out and get $10 off your first order.
2. Ghia
Inspired by Mediterranean aperitivo culture, Ghia creates sophisticated, spirit-free aperitifs designed to be sipped slowly and savored. With a bold blend of botanicals, citrus, and herbs, Ghia’s flavor profile is complex and satisfying. Served over ice or mixed into a mocktail, it brings elegance and edge to any occasion—no alcohol required. If you are watching a sunset or gathering friends these pretty bottles and festive flavors feel special.
- Perfect for: outdoor celebration, party favors and the cans are great for pool parties
- Swap: Lillet or any fruit-forward cocktail for Le Fizz
- Get it here: Shop DrinkGhia.com here
3. TÖST
For celebratory moments that call for something bubbly, TÖST delivers. This sparkling nonalcoholic wine alternative blends white tea, ginger, and cranberry for a crisp, effervescent experience. Whether you’re toasting a birthday or just elevating a Tuesday night, TÖST feels festive without being sugary or artificial. They recently launched a sangria that sold out in DAYS. In the summer I swear by the rosé-colored option.
- Perfect for: picnics, deck dinners and day drinking
- Swap: Processco or rosé for Töst White or Töst RoseÂ
- Get it here: Shop Amazon here
Integrating more options to your life
For me, I’m a weekend imbiber. I find it easy to skip alcohol during the week and save a cocktail for date nights with my husband. I stock my fridge with these tasty options for Sunday through Thursday so I never feel like I’m missing out on everyday joys.
Importantly, cutting back on alcohol doesn’t have to mean giving up the pleasure of a great drink. It simply means redefining what that looks like. With thoughtful brands and health-forward choices, today’s nonalcoholic movement is less about restriction and more about empowerment. For women seeking balance, clarity, and control—without compromising on flavor or social connection—nonalcoholic options offer a meaningful, modern solution.
I still love a good boozy cocktail and now that I’m drinking less, I enjoy them even more.
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