As an increasing number of people embrace sobriety on a daily basis, Dry July is an opportune time for the rest of us, whose post-work or weekend indulgence has become a necessity, to take a pause and pare back the drinking for a good cause.
Whether you drink alcohol for the taste, its relaxing benefits, or as a means of socialising, abstaining doesn’t need to feel like a daunting task.
Rather than deny you the appeal of a crisp tipple at the end of a long work day, there is a growing number of chic alcohol-free drink alternatives on the market to choose from. And with Dry July officially underway, now is certainly a good time to take a look at your drinking habits and embrace some of the creative concoctions put on by your local bars and restaurants.
Aside from potentially improving your mental clarity, sleep quality and energy levels, going alcohol-free also gives you the opportunity to raise money for the Dry July campaign which helps support people in Aotearoa who are affected by cancer.
If you’re looking to partake in Dry July, or are simply sober-curious, we’ve curated a list of the best alcohol-free happenings and products to see you through the month with ease.
Pals x Hotel Ponsonby
For the entire month of July, one of our favourite Auckland hotspots, Hotel Ponsonby, and local RTD brand Pals are coming together to celebrate Dry July and the launch of Pals new 0% alcohol flavour, Red Peach & Yuzu. Following the successful release of Pals Red Peach & Yuzu 5% last year – which was a highly sought-after on-tap option at Hotel Ponsonby – the two companies have joined once again to offer you your first Pals 0% for free for the whole of July. Cheers to that!
Available till the 31st of July at Hotel Ponsonby. You can also shop Pals’ 0% range in supermarkets now.
Yes You Can
Aperol Spritz or Dark and Stormy sans alcohol? Yes please. With their eye-catching packaging and enticing range of beverages, Yes You Can has revolutionised the alcohol-free cocktail game. Crafted in partnership with esteemed mixologists from around the globe, each beverage is designed to emulate the subtle throat warmth and satisfying mouthfeel typically associated with alcoholic drinks.
Yes You Can is offering 20% off orders placed online for a limited time, though you can also purchase the range in most supermarkets.
Cafe Hanoi, Perch and Ghost Street
Three of Comensa group’s most stylish restaurants are getting amongst the Dry July action this month, with new alcohol-free offerings from Cafe Hanoi, Perch and Ghost Street. “There used to be very few non-alcoholic beverage options in restaurants, but oh how times have changed,” says Comensa co-owner, Krishna Botica. “I am delighted that there are now so many NA spirits that our bartenders can play with in their mixology sessions.” From virgin espresso martinis to pomegranate sours, their range of offerings will have you spoiled for choice.
Make a booking at Cafe Hanoi, Perch or Ghost Street today.
The Chiller
Specialising exclusively in alcohol-free products, Kiwi company The Chiller is on a mission to redefine the way we drink. With an impressive selection of alcohol-free beverages including spirits, beers, wines, ciders and RTDs – The Chiller has become our one-stop shop for stocking up on alcohol-free delights. As an authorised supporter of Dry July, $1 from every order this month goes to Dry July NZ, so you can support the cause whether you’re forgoing alcohol for the month or not.
Shop at The Chiller now and receive 20% off selected brands.
Curious AF
With the aim of providing sophisticated, adult options for those navigating a sober curious lifestyle, Curious AF’s line of beverages is everything a seasoned cocktail drinker needs for Dry July. Though the brand’s website is host to a variety of alcohol-free beverage types, their core range includes classics such as G&Ts and Vodka Spritz’ through to Tokyo Highballs and Sparkling Sake. C’est chic.
Curious AF is offering 15% off all orders for a limited time, so shop the range now.
