Tipple-lovers, get ready to sip booze, beer and wine in style – without the hangover.
On March 21, the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria will be packed with over 40 non-alcoholic drink producers, and Greater Victorians are invited to swig samples to their heart's content.
Aptly named Free Spirit, the gathering will highlight the newfound popularity of zero-proof drinks.
"It's been impossible to ignore the exploding popularity of the non-alcoholic drink category," said the event's founder Kurtis Kolt, who is also a sommelier. "The quality of zero-proof wine, beer and spirits has really skyrocketed in the last few years, and so because there is so much better quality, more people are prone to purchase and enjoy them, which puts confidence in the industry to put more money into research and development."
According to the International Wine and Spirits Record, a global drinks data and analytics provider, the market value of no- and low-alcohol products surpassed a whopping $13 billion US in 2023. It also found that non-alcoholic products are expected to make up four per cent of the overall alcohol market by 2027.
Kurt noted the demand for these drinks isn't reserved for those steering clear of booze.
"Many people who come to these events do enjoy traditional wine, beer and spirits, but for various reasons – including wellness, including moderation – they still want interesting and exciting beverages to enjoy when they are not imbibing," he said.
The upcoming Victoria event follows hot on the heels of a successful Free Spirit event in Vancouver.
"[I] was ecstatic that it sold out within a few days," said Kolt. "I am glad to provide a space where people can explore and have fun."
For tickets, visit: eventbrite.ca/e/free-spirit-victoria-tickets-1271739750829.
