Abstaining from alcohol consumption, not just during summer months, but also at parties and celebrations throughout the year, appears to be increasing in popularity.

In the vibrant city of Madrid, SLVJ Madrid Canalejas is making waves with its innovative mixology, offering coffee duets that take an unexpected twist with flavors such as tomato or mango and chili. This is just one example of the growing trend of non-alcoholic beverages in Spain and around the world.

Non-alcoholic drinks, often categorized as 'mocktails' or 'virgins', are no longer considered the boring alternative. In fact, 80% of soft drinks in Spain are consumed in a context of leisure, enjoyment, and celebration. The demand for these beverages is particularly high during aperitifs, lunch, and the late afternoon.

Generation Z and other social groups are redefining their relationship with alcohol, favoring non-alcoholic beverages. This shift is driven by a desire for new experiences and a focus on health and wellness. Many people aim for a healthy lifestyle throughout the year, including giving up alcohol due to its disastrous consequences on the body, which can lead to chronic diseases like alcoholism.

The de-alcoholized drinks sector is reinventing itself with zero-proof spirits, kombuchas, hydrolats, flavored waters, sodas, and cocktails gaining popularity. One such example is the 'Aware' aromatic non-alcoholic cocktail, which boasts notes of apple, coconut, cucumber, and jalapeño. Another popular choice is the 'Pineapple Detox', a refreshing concoction made with fresh pineapple, coconut water, turmeric, ginger, and served with coconut ice.

A viral non-alcoholic cocktail combination is the 'spicy rosé', made with non-alcoholic rosé wine, mineral water, and jalapeño slices. The Hibiscus Sour, a popular 'mocktail', is made with non-alcoholic tequila, egg white, lime juice, hibiscus syrup, and edible flower for garnish.

The specialists behind these innovative creations are the expert mixologists working at El Jardin del Ritz, a Madrid establishment recognized for its creative cocktails and mocktails served in an atmospheric garden setting. The demand for non-alcoholic beverages is also leading to the rise of 'sober bars' worldwide.

Sofía, a 20-year-old interior design student, is among those embracing this trend. She believes that non-alcoholic drinks offer interesting flavors and cocktails, far from being boring. Sugar-free refreshing beverages currently represent more than 66% of the total beverages commercialized in Spain, reflecting this growing preference.

Current mixology incorporates cultural innovation and emotional narratives, adding a new layer of excitement to the non-alcoholic beverage scene. As we move forward, it's clear that this trend is here to stay, offering a refreshing and exciting alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.