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We chat with Umbrella Dry Bar owner to get the lowdown on the industry.
No booze, no problem. The nonalcoholic beverage scene in Raleigh is only continuing to flourish, with pop-ups from brands like Umbrella Dry Bar and Dry Garden taking place across the city—NTM local alt options like THC/CBD drinks becoming more mainstream. Whether you’re straight sober or just not in the mood to imbibe in alcohol, it seems like there are more options than ever for those wanting to stay dry.
And “these aren’t just substitutes,” says Umbrella Dry Bar founder Meg Paradise; “they represent conscious lifestyle choices that often lead to a cascade of other positive benefits, and we’re meeting so many people in an exploratory phase, many of whom still enjoy alcohol but are cultivating a more mindful and balanced relationship with it.”
As the industry continues to evolve, we chatted with Paradise on what you need to know about NA beverages right now.
Beyond the Replica: Two Main Spirit Categories
When exploring nonalcoholic spirits, there are generally two approaches. The first is the “1:1 analog,” or replica-style spirit, crafted to mimic the flavor profile of traditional spirits like bourbon or gin. These were very popular when the NA movement was gaining traction, offering a familiar substitute for classic cocktails. However, the second category is where things get really interesting—these are original, innovative spirits doing their own thing, often with unique flavor combinations and profiles that aren’t trying to be a direct replacement.
Functionality Beyond the Lack of Hangover
One of the most compelling aspects of many newer NA beverages, particularly within that second, original category, is their functional benefits. Beyond the obvious perk of no hangover, these drinks often incorporate adaptogens, nootropics and other botanicals that aim to provide specific health benefits. We see products marketed for everything from a “party starter” or “mood uplifter” to supporting social ease, focus, clarity, creativity, and even relaxation and better sleep. It’s a whole new dimension of mindful drinking.
The RTD Revolution: Variety & Convenience
The ready-to-drink (RTD) nonalcoholic cocktail market has exploded! We offer a “mix and match” selection at our shop [within The Self Care Marketplace], and the sheer variety available now compared to just a year ago is astounding. It’s a fantastic way for people to experiment with different flavors and brands without committing to a full bottle. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient for enjoying a sophisticated drink on the go. We also consciously curate our RTD selection to be sugar-conscious, with most options ranging between 2–8 grams of sugar per can, and nothing exceeding 12 grams.
Building Your NA Bar Cart
Think of building your nonalcoholic bar cart just like you would a traditional one. We stock a diverse range of NA spirits, alongside essential cocktail components like high-quality syrups, aromatic bitters and a variety of garnishes. This allows people to get creative and craft complex and delicious nonalcoholic cocktails at home, mirroring the ritual and enjoyment of traditional mixology.
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