The rise of non-alcoholic beverages: A new trend in Fort Collins

N/A beers, wines and cocktails to take Dry January to a new level

We’re calling it “Gobi January,” because Dry January didn’t do justice to the level of commitment some customers are showing us. Naming a New Year’s resolution after one of the world’s most unforgiving deserts might seem extreme, but it’s also an apt metaphor for those abstaining from alcohol while exploring flavorful alternatives.

For Fort Collins residents taking on their own version of Gobi January, or Gobi whenever, staying dry doesn’t have to be literal. Non-alcoholic beverages are having a moment, with an ever-growing variety of options to satisfy your cravings without the buzz. From craft beers to sophisticated wines, and from innovative spirits to refreshing seltzers, the market for non-alcoholic (N/A) drinks is booming—and Mulberry MAX is your Fort Collins liquor store that’s stepping up to meet the demand.

The go-to Fort Collins liquor store for N/A drinks

As a hub of craft beverage culture, Fort Collins has embraced the rise of non-alcoholic beverages with open arms. Mulberry MAX offers a curated selection of N/A drinks that rival their alcoholic counterparts in taste, creativity, and presentation. Whether you’re a dedicated teetotaler or simply exploring a mindful drinking lifestyle, the variety available ensures there’s something for everyone.

At Mulberry MAX, you’ll find:

  • Non-alcoholic beers: Crafted with the same care as traditional brews, these beers deliver flavor without the alcohol.
  • N/A wines: From celeb-endorsed selections to artisan creations, non-alcoholic wines bring elegance to any meal or celebration.
  • Alcohol-free spirits: Perfect for creating cocktails that capture all the sophistication without the booze.
  • Refreshing seltzers: These bubbly beverages are a favorite for those seeking light and hydrating options.

The rise of non-alcoholic drinks can be attributed to several factors:

  • Health-conscious lifestyles: More people are embracing healthier lifestyles and seek alternatives to alcohol as a common step in that direction.
  • Inclusivity: Non-alcoholic options ensure that everyone can join the party, regardless of their drinking preferences.Hosts who provide N/A alternatives are often met with gratitude from non-embibing partygoers.
  • Innovative flavors: Producers are crafting N/A beverages with complex flavor profiles, proving that you don’t need alcohol to create a memorable drink.
  • Celebrity endorsements: From Billy Strings (who’s California sober, as they say) to Kylie Minogue, big names are lending their star power to N/A products, making them trendy and desirable.

Non-alcoholic beverages: A cultural shift backed by data

The rise of non-alcoholic beverages isn’t just anecdotal—it’s supported by significant market research. Across age groups, people are increasingly seeking alcohol-free options for various reasons, from health and wellness to inclusivity and lifestyle choices.

The growing demand for N/A options

According to a report from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, the non-alcoholic beverage market grew by 34% between 2020 and 2022, with expectations to reach $11 billion globally by 2025. This surge reflects a significant shift in consumer behavior, with younger generations leading the charge.

  • Millennials and Gen Z: Younger consumers are reshaping the way we think about alcohol. A study by NielsenIQ found that nearly 66% of Gen Z drinkers are actively trying to reduce their alcohol consumption. Millennials are close behind, with 54% showing interest in low or no-alcohol options.
  • Boomers and Gen X: While younger generations are driving innovation, older groups are adopting N/A beverages for health-conscious reasons, such as reducing calories and improving overall wellness.

Fort Collins and the N/A trend

The trend is especially noticeable in vibrant, health-focused cities like Fort Collins. With its thriving craft beverage scene, Fort Collins has embraced non-alcoholic innovation. The MAX is the leading Fort Collins liquor store responding to the demand, stocking shelves with premium N/A beers, wines, and spirits.

What’s behind the numbers?

A closer look at consumer preferences reveals the reasons behind this shift:

  • Health and wellness goals:
     Nearly 70% of U.S. adults who consume non-alcoholic beverages say they do so to support a healthier lifestyle. From fewer calories to better sleep, these benefits resonate across all demographics.
  • Social norms and inclusivity:
     A growing number of people are occasionally choosing N/A options in social settings to stay connected without compromising on their goals. Non-alcoholic drinks provide a way for everyone to enjoy the experience, whether they’re skipping alcohol temporarily or permanently.
  • Experimentation and craftsmanship:
     As the N/A market expands, the quality and variety of options improve. Craft breweries and distilleries are experimenting with flavors, elevating alcohol-free drinks to an art form.

Where to find Fort Collins’ best N/A beverages

The MAX is taking this trend seriously. With curated selections of non-alcoholic beers, wines, and mixers, we cater to every palate and occasion. Whether you’re interested in a zero-proof cocktail for a night out or a refreshing N/A beer for game day, you’ll find Fort Collins non-alcoholic beverage options that rival their alcoholic counterparts in quality and taste.

The future of non-alcoholic beverages

As consumers continue to prioritize health and inclusivity, the N/A market shows no signs of slowing down. Industry experts predict further innovation, from functional beverages with added health benefits to collaborations with top-tier chefs and mixologists.

For Fort Collins residents, the rise of non-alcoholic beverages means more choices than ever. Whether you’re embarking on a “Gobi January” or simply looking for a refreshing alternative, now is the perfect time to explore what the N/A world has to offer.

Standout non-alcoholic beverages at Mulberry MAX

If you’re ready to explore the world of non-alcoholic drinks, there are some standout options available at Mulberry MAX. Our inventory of N/A beverages is ever-changing, but here’s what we have to offer at the time of this post:

Thirst Mutilator Seltzers is a collaboration between Short’s Brewing and musician Billy Strings, bringing a bluegrass edge to the seltzer scene. Thirst Mutilator is a refreshing, effervescent option that delivers bold flavors without the booze. Perfect for sipping while enjoying live music or relaxing at home.

Hand on Heart Chardonnay comes fromsinger Kylie Minogue, who has expanded her wine portfolio with Hand on Heart, a non-alcoholic Chardonnay that pairs beautifully with meals or a quiet evening in. This wine offers all the complexity and balance you’d expect from a premium Chardonnay, minus the alcohol.

Three Spirit Elixirs: Looking for “hedonism without the hangover”? Three Spirit Elixirs are cocktail mixers that combine botanicals, adaptogens, and other natural ingredients to create unique alcohol-free drinks. These elixirs are perfect for experimenting with mocktail recipes that feel indulgent yet mindful.

Wisetail’s Alcohol-Free Mojitos and Margaritas are canned beverages offer all the flavor and fun of classic cocktails. Their mojitos are a refreshing blend of zesty lime, crisp mint, and just the right touch of sweetness, making them perfect for warm evenings or laid-back gatherings. Meanwhile, their margaritas deliver the tangy zest of lime, a hint of orange, and a smooth, balanced finish, giving you the full margarita experience in an alcohol-free version. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or staying sober, Wisetail’s N/A cocktails are a deliciously inclusive option.

DHOS Gin Free and DHOS Orange Liqueur are mocktail mixers that bring sophistication and depth to the world of non-alcoholic spirits. Gin Free captures the essence of a classic gin with aromatic botanicals like juniper, coriander, and citrus, delivering a crisp, refreshing base for mocktails. Orange Liqueur is a vibrant, alcohol-free take on the classic, bursting with zesty orange and subtle sweetness, perfect for crafting zero-proof margaritas or spritzes. Together, they make indulgent, flavorful, and entirely alcohol-free cocktails easy to create.

HOP WTR is an innovative N/A drink producer delivers a refreshing twist on non-alcoholic beverages with bold, hop-infused flavors and no alcohol, calories, or sugar.

  • Classic: Crisp and clean with subtle hints of citrus and pine from the hops, offering the perfect balance of refreshment and bite.
  • Mango: Bursting with tropical vibes, this flavor blends juicy mango with a crisp hop finish for a taste of sunshine in every sip.
  • Blood Orange: Bright and tangy, featuring the rich citrus punch of blood orange paired with the earthy complexity of hops.
  • Lime: Zesty and invigorating, combining the tartness of lime with a refreshing hop-forward profile.

Gruvi Dry Secco and Bubbly Rosé are popular N/A sparkling wine options, bringing elegance and celebration to alcohol-free sipping.

●     Dry Secco offers a crisp, light-bodied experience with delicate floral notes and a hint of tartness, perfect for toasting or pairing with light appetizers.

●     Bubbly Rosé is a refreshing blend of juicy red fruit flavors, like strawberry and raspberry, with a soft, sparkling finish that’s ideal for any festive occasion.

Kava Haven is a premium, alcohol-free kava beverage. Crafted from high-quality kava root, this N/A drink is designed to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance a sense of calm without any intoxicating effects. With its earthy flavor and natural benefits, Kava Haven is the perfect choice for unwinding after a long day or enjoying mindful moments of peace.

Lyre’s Gin and Tonic and Spritz Amalfi are crafted to bring classic cocktail experiences to the alcohol-free world.

●     Gin and Tonic: A refreshing take on the timeless favorite, featuring a balanced blend of juniper-forward botanicals and a crisp tonic finish, perfect for anytime sipping.

●     Spritz Amalfi: Bright and vibrant, this alcohol-free aperitif captures the essence of the Amalfi Coast with zesty citrus, bittersweet orange, and subtle herbal notes, making it an ideal choice for aperitivo hour.

●     Margarita: A zesty, alcohol-free rendition of the iconic drink, bursting with tangy lime, a hint of orange, and a perfectly balanced, refreshing finish. Ideal for savoring the margarita experience without the alcohol.

●     American Malt & Cola: A rich and smooth blend of Lyre’s American Malt paired with a classic cola. This ready-to-drink option delivers warm notes of caramel and vanilla alongside the refreshing fizz of cola, perfect for laid-back sipping.

  • Rum Alternative: Rich with warm vanilla, toasted spice, and subtle oak notes, perfect for mixing into mojitos or daiquiris.
  • Gin Alternative: Captures the essence of traditional gin with botanical flavors like juniper, cucumber, and citrus, ideal for a refreshing zero-proof G&T.
  • Aperitif Alternative: Provides a bold and bittersweet profile with hints of orange, rhubarb, and herbs, making it a sophisticated choice for spritzes or negronis. Perfect for mindful drinking without compromising on taste.

Non-alcoholic beers available at Mulberry Max in Fort Collins

Here are the N/A beers we have at Mulberry Max as of this writing. Keep in mind that we’re constantly updating and changing our options to keep only the best non-alcoholic beers in stock at The Max.

  • Coors
  • Busch
  • Corona
  • Budweiser
  • Guinness
  • Athletic
  • Lagunitas
  • Blue Moon
  • Untitled Art
  • Wellbeing
  • Deschutes
  • Best Day
  • RationAle
  • Gruvi

If there’s a non-alcoholic beer, wine or cocktail you’re interested in, let us know and we’ll see if we can get it.

Crafting the perfect non-alcoholic cocktail

One of the joys of exploring N/A beverages is the opportunity to craft inventive cocktails. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

N/A Citrus Sparkler

  • 2 oz Three Spirit Livener Elixir
  • 4 oz Thirst Mutilator Seltzer (citrus flavor)
  • Juice of half a lime
  • Ice
  • Lime wheel for garnish

Combine the Three Spirit Elixir, seltzer, and lime juice in a glass with ice. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wheel. Cheers to mindful sipping!

The future of non-alcoholic beverages

As the demand for non-alcoholic drinks continues to grow, producers are pushing the boundaries of innovation. Expect to see:

  • More premium options: With an emphasis on quality ingredients and sophisticated flavor profiles, N/A beverages are becoming a staple in upscale settings.
  • Sustainability initiatives: Many N/A producers are embracing eco-friendly practices, from sourcing ingredients to packaging.
  • Expanded availability: With Mulberry Max leading the charge in Fort Collins, it’s easier than ever to find high-quality non-alcoholic options.

Explore N/A options at the top Fort Collins liquor store

Whether you’re tackling a Gobi January or simply curious about the non-alcoholic trend, The Max is your go-to Fort Collins liquor store with an impressive array of options to suit every taste. Stop by The MAX next to Target at the corner of Mulberry and College to discover your new favorite N/A beverage and make your journey through the desert a delicious one.