Heard of zero-proof alcohol and thought WTF? In this quick read, we explain what is zero proof alcohol, how it’s used, and why anyone would want to drink it at all.
Zero proof alcohol is a pretty odd concept. Especially, when you consider that ‘proof’ means alcohol content, so what we are technically saying is ‘no-alcohol alcohol’. Yes, it is dumb and an abomination of the English language, but that aside… what the hell is zero-proof alcohol? And what’s the point?
Well, if you want the taste and experience of drinking alcohol without the intoxicating effects, then zero-proof alcohol is the perfect choice. Rather than a simple virgin daiquiri or piña colada, zero-proof alcohol allows you to mix up a wide assortment of alcohol-free mocktails.
In this quick read, we delve more into what is zero proof alcohol, and why it’s a good thing.
What is Zero Proof Alcohol?
How Zero-Proof Alcohol is Made
In general, zero-proof alcohol is designed to replicate the flavor and aroma of traditional alcohol, without the intoxicating effects.
Zero-proof Alcohol Definition
Proof is an indication of the alcohol content in a beverage, and represents a value twice the percentage of alcohol by volume. Since half of zero-proof, is 0% ABV, the beverage is effectively alcohol-free. Zero-proof alcohol is specifically designed to mimic the flavor, appearance, and aromas associated with drinking an alcoholic beverage, without the adverse side effects.
Ingredients and Production Methods
Zero-proof alcohol can be manufactured through a wide variety of different methods.
While there is a wide assortment of ways to create zero-proof alcohol, the most common method is to mix water, natural flavor extracts, spices, herbs, and certain fruit juices to mimic the aroma and flavor of the traditional beverage.
In other cases, such as many non-alcoholic beers, it starts out as an alcoholic drink, but that alcohol is extracted. This leaves the complex profile, flavors, and aroma associated with the original drink.
The most common method of removing the alcohol is through vacuum distillation. This allows the alcohol to be carefully removed from the delicate mixture, which results in a natural-tasting, non-alcoholic version of the original beverage.
Types of Zero-Proof Alcohol
You can find zero-proof alcohol in a wide variety of different flavors and styles.
Non-Alcoholic Spirits
The most commonly found zero-proof alcohols include spirits such as rum, gin, or whiskey. These spirits are designed to mimic the flavor of the alcoholic version but lack the warm sensation and bitter taste.
Bitters and Aperitifs
When it comes to making mocktails, you need to start with a zero-proof bitter or aperitif. Although it is possible to consume these on their own, they are generally used to add citrusy, and herbal flavors to common mocktails.
Non-Alcoholic Beers
Let’s not forget the wide selection of non-alcoholic beers. While beer is generally measured in alcohol by volume, a zero-proof beer is by definition a non-alcoholic beer. While marketed as non-alcoholic, it is important to bear in mind that many non-alcoholic beers contain traces amounts of alcohol due to the fermentation process.
Wines and Sparkling Alternatives
You can also find a large assortment of lines and sparkling beverages. One of the oldest forms of zero-proof alcohol was the sparkling grape juice, that could be purchased at any local grocery store. Today, however, you can find red and white varieties as well.
What’s the Point of Zero-Proof Alcohol?
In recent years, there has been a large shift in consumer appeal and trends when it comes to the consumption of alcohol. If you’re still perplexed and wondering what is zero proof alcohol doing on our shelves, here are some reasons people are switching to these alcohol-free alternatives.
Reasons People Drink Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
Health and Wellness
More and more people are paying closer attention to their health and well-being. Although some may argue that a glass of wine can help to reduce blood pressure, those who are more focused on maintaining a healthier and wealthier lifestyle, choose to consume zero-proof alcohol as it can reduce their caloric intake. And while we’re on that note, a Harvard study found that non-alcoholic red wine may reduce blood pressure, so maybe you’ll need a new excuse for that sneaky glass of red.
Moderation and Responsibility
At the same time, those who have had issues with excessive alcohol consumption in the past, have found that zero-proof alcohol provides them with the ability to balance the enjoyment of hanging out with friends and having a few beers, without having to deal with the side effects of alcohol intoxication.
Designated Drivers
It used to be that the friend who drew the shortest straw, would be the designated driver for the night, and therefore would need to abstain from consuming any alcohol. But thanks to the increased availability of zero-proof alcohol, the designated driver can stay alert, even after spending the whole night with their buddies. Non-alcoholic beverages are also perfect for business meetings and other forms of get-togethers where alcohol may have negative effects.
Inclusivity
The increased availability of zero-proof alcohol promotes inclusivity. Some people simply do not consume alcohol for whatever reason, and zero-proof alcohol allows them to hang out with friends, and be included in other social get-togethers, without feeling pressured to drink.
What is Zero Proof Alcohol Used For?
What is Zero Proof Alcohol Used For in Mixology & Food Service?
While zero-proof beers have been around for quite some time, in recent years there has been an increased demand for both zero-proof and virgin alcohol mocktails.
Zero-proof Cocktails
The zero-proof cocktail, which is more commonly referred to as a mocktail, is designed to offer the same level of complexity and presentation of a traditional cocktail, without the intoxicating effects of the alcohol itself.
Culinary Pairing
In recent years, there has also been an increase in the use of zero-proof alcohol as a way of complementing a wide variety of dishes or desserts. In the past, a culinary artist could not simply offer an alcoholic beverage to pair with their creation, without the risk of upsetting their customers. But, zero-proof mocktails have changed all of that.
Creative Flair
In today’s fast-paced world, mixologists have gone out of their way to innovate and find new ways to mimic the flavors and presentation of a traditional alcoholic cocktail, without including any alcohol at all.
Home Bartending
Because of readily available zero-proof alcohol, it is now possible for you to create cocktails at home. This allows the home bartender to craft a wide selection of zero-proof mocktails for friends and family.
Conclusion
This brings us to the end, and hopefully you now have some idea about what zero proof alcohol is, and why people bother with it. To wrap up, let’s recap the answer to our question…
What is Zero-Proof Alcohol?
Basically, the term ‘zero-proof alcohol’ refers to non-alcoholic beverages. Usually it’s used to denote alcohol-free versions of beverages that are traditionally alcoholic, such as spirits, bitters and aperitifs, beer and wine. So, if you see the words zero-proof on a bottle of “whiskey” your friend gave you, now you know that it contains no alcohol… and that maybe they’re sending you a hint to cut down!
Cheers!
