How To Master Non-Alcoholic Wine Etiquette at Social Events

Non-alcoholic wine has become increasingly popular for social gatherings of all sizes, from intimate dinner parties to grand weddings and anniversary celebrations. People are choosing to serve these alcohol-free alternatives for a variety of compelling reasons. Health consciousness is a primary factor, as many individuals are looking to reduce their alcohol intake or eliminate it entirely. Inclusivity is another key consideration, ensuring that all guests, including those who don’t drink alcohol for personal, religious, or health reasons, can fully participate in toasts and enjoy a sophisticated beverage experience.

Trends Driving Non-Alcoholic Wine Popularity:

The trend towards mindful drinking and sober curiosity has also contributed to the rise of non-alcoholic wines at events. Hosts appreciate the reduced liability and potential for safer, more controlled environments when alcohol is removed from the equation. Additionally, serving non-alcoholic wines allows for a clear-headed, memorable experience for all attendees, particularly important for milestone events like weddings. Today, it’s not only fashionable but also practical to offer non-alcoholic wines at social gatherings.

Quality and Variety of Non-Alcoholic Wines

These alternatives can still provide the elegance and heightened culinary experience traditionally associated with fine wines, without the negative effects of alcohol. The quality and variety of alcohol-free wines have improved significantly, allowing hosts to create sophisticated pairings with food and maintain the ritual and ceremony of wine service.

A Shift in Event Planning

In my previous experience in the traditional wine and gourmet food industry, I was often called upon to assist clients in selecting wines and matching dishes for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and religious gatherings. Now, there’s a noticeable shift towards non-alcoholic options for these events. Hosts are recognizing the benefits of creating inclusive, health-conscious celebrations that cater to a wide range of preferences and needs, while still maintaining the festive atmosphere and culinary sophistication that wine brings to the table.

Top 10 Takeaways:

Here are the top 10 takeaways from the blog post:

1. Non-alcoholic wines have become increasingly popular for social gatherings due to health consciousness, inclusivity, and the trend towards mindful drinking.
2. When selecting non-alcoholic wines for events, consider factors such as nutrient content, variety, taste profile, quality, serving temperature, food pairings, and guest preferences.
3. There are several low-sugar NA wine options available, including ONES Sparkling wines, Giesen Sauvignon Blanc, and Joyus wines.
4. Proper food pairings are essential for non-alcoholic wines. The blog provides specific keto-friendly recipe suggestions for different types of zero alcohol wines.
5. Staying on a keto diet while avoiding alcohol at social events requires reaffirming commitment to health goals and opting for keto-friendly, non-alc alternatives.
6. Non alcoholic wines may contain hidden carbs, often in the form of added ingredients like glycerol, grape juice, or fruit concentrates.
7. When counting carbs from non-alcoholic wines, it’s recommended to count half of the carbs from sugar alcohols toward daily totals on a keto diet.
8. The proper way to toast with non-alcoholic wine includes holding the glass by the stem, making eye contact, and raising the glass to chest height.
9. Non-alcoholic wines can still provide a sophisticated beverage experience and maintain the ritual of wine service at events.
10. The quality and variety of non-alcoholic wines have improved significantly, allowing for better options in social gatherings and food pairings

What Criteria Do You Use To Pick Non-Alcoholic Wine For Celebrations:

Here are some points consider:

What Are The Best Low In Sugar Non-Alcoholic Wine Options?

Sugar in Non Alcoholic Wines:

This wines are listed from the lowest to highest grams of sugar per 100 mL to the highest in each category.

Sparkling Wines:

1. ONES Sparkling White: 9.6 calories and 0g sugar per 100mL (Click this link for a 10% discount on ALL Ones Sparkling Wines)
2. ONES Sparkling Rosé: 7.2 calories and 0g sugar per 100mL (Click this link for a 10% discount on ALL Ones Sparkling Wines)
3. ONES Sparkling Red: 7.2 calories and 0g sugar per 100mL (Click this link for a 10% discount on ALL Ones Sparkling Wines)
4. Sovi Sparkling Wine: 10 calories and 1.3g sugar per 100mL
5. Joyus Sparkling White: 12.5 calories and 2.5g sugar per 100mL
6. Joyus Sparkling Rose: 12.5 calories and 2.5g sugar per 100mL
7. Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay: 14 calories and 2.9g sugar per 100mL
8. Thomson & Scott Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay: 14.4 calories and 3.2g sugar per 100mL
9. Château del ISH (Sparkling Rosé): 20 calories and 3.9g sugar per 100mL
10. Edanvale Sparkling Cuvee Spanish: 24 calories and 3.8g sugar per 100mL
11. Edenvale Sparkling Rose: 36 calories and 3.8g sugar per 100mL
12. Oddbird Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé: 19.4 calories and 4.4g sugar per 100mL
13. Edenvale Non Alcoholic Rose: 21 calories and 4.6g sugar per 100mL
14. Edenvale Sparkling Shiraz: 21 calories and 4.7g sugar per 100mL
15. Edanvale Sparkling Cuvee: 23 calories and 5.1g sugar per 100mL

White Wines:

1. The Expedition Series Non-Alc Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc: 24 calories and 0g sugar per 100mL
2. Sovi Chenin Blanc: 10 calories and 1.3g sugar per 100mL
3. Edenvale Semillon Sauvignon Blanc: 8 calories and 1.6g sugar per 100mL
4. Giesen Sauvignon Blanc: 12.5 calories and 1.75g sugar per 100mL
5. Brochet Zero Organic Sauvignon Blanc: 8 calories and 1.8g sugar per 100mL
6. Noughty Blanc De-alcoholised White Wine: 17 calories and 2.0g sugar per 100mL
7. Princess Alternativa Bianco Dry Non-Alcoholic White Wine: 17 calories and 2.6g sugar per 100mL
8. Edanvale Pinot Gris: 13 calories and 2.8g sugar per 100mL
9. Lautus Chardonnay: 20 calories and 2.8g sugar per 100mL
10. Edenvale The Spanish Expedition Series Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc: 17 calories and 3.6g sugar per 100mL
11. Edenvale Non-Alc Chardonnay: 18 calories and 3.9g sugar per 100mL
12. Leitz Eins Zwei Non-Alc Riesling: 24 calories and 4.9g sugar per 100mL
13. Edenvale Blanc de Blanc Premium Reserve: 23 calories and 5.2g sugar per 100mL
14. Luminara Napa Valley Chardonnay Dealcoholized: 18 calories and 5.2g sugar per 100mL
15. Le Petit Beret Virgin Sauvignon Blanc: 25 calories and 6.2g sugar per 100mL

Rosé Wines:

1. Sovi Sparkling Rose: 10 calories and 1.3g sugar per 100mL
2. Joyus Rose: 10 calories and 2g sugar per 100mL
3. Noughty Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé: 18 calories and 4g sugar per 100mL
4. Wölffer Spring in a Bottle Non-Alcoholic Rosé: 24.5 calories and 4.8g sugar per 100mL
5. Edenvale Rose: 22 calories and 5.5g sugar per 100mL

Red Wines:

1. YOURS Non-Alcoholic California Red Blend: 6.8 calories and 0.68g sugar per 100mL
2. Sovi Reserve Red: 10 calories and 1.3g sugar per 100mL
3. Joyus Cabernet Sauvignon: 16.7 calories and 1.3g sugar per 100mL
4. Alcohol Removed Cabernet Sauvignon: 13.3 calories and 1.3g sugar per 100mL
5. Edenvale Non-Alcoholic Grenach Shiraz Mataro: 10 calories and 1.8g sugar per 100mL
6. Naughty Red: 14 calories and 2.5g sugar per 100mL
7. Lautus Non-Alcoholic Red: 12 calories and 3g sugar per 100mL
8. Edenvale Non-Alcoholic Tempranillo Cabernet Sauvignon: 14 calories and 3g sugar per 100mL
9. Luminara Red Blend: 20 calories and 3.2g sugar per 100mL
10. Edenvale Shiraz: 17 calories and 3.8g sugar per 100mL
11. Edenvale Cabernet Sauvignon: 18 calories and 3.9g sugar per 100mL
12. Edenvale Premium Reserve Pinot Noir: 20 calories and 4.3g sugar per 100mL
13. Leitz Eins-Zwei-Zero Pinot Noir: 21 calories and 4.9g sugar per 100mL

How To Serve Non-Alcoholic Wine At A Keto Social Event?

Answering this question takes an entire blog. Check out this blog to give you some ideas about setting up the room ambiance, serving tables, wine glasses, plates, cutlery, music, and more. Discover insider tips for creating an unforgettable dining experience that will impress your guests and elevate your hosting skills.

From elegant table settings to mood-setting lighting and carefully curated playlists, this comprehensive guide covers all the essential elements to transform your dinner party from ordinary to extraordinary. Don’t miss out on these recommendations that will help you craft the perfect atmosphere for your next social event.

Non-Alcoholic Wine; Entertain and Ignite a Culinary Adventure

What Food Pairings Work Well With Non-Alcoholic Wine On A Keto Diet?

Whites:

ONES Sparkling White:

• • (Click this link for a 10% discount on ALL Ones Sparkling Wines)
  • Light, crisp white with good acidity that pairs well with dishes highlighting tanginess and/or saltiness
  • Pineapple and tropical fruit flavors without the sweetness
  • Here are 5 Keto recipes that incorporate fresh tanginess and saltiness to harmonize and offset with the NA wine’s acidity:

1. 1. • Lemon-Herb Crusted Salmon with Capers and Feta (entree)
      • Salmon Tartar with Avocado and Capers
      • Tangy Avocado and Bacon Stuffed Cucumber Boats (hors d’oeuvre)
      • Zesty Lime and Chili Grilled Chicken Skewers with Salted Cilantro Butter (entree)
      • Crispy Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Lemon-Garlic Aioli (hors d’oeuvre or appetizer)
      • Spicy Kimchi and Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps with Sesame Salt (hors d’oeuvre or appetizer)

Giesen Sauvignon Blanc: 

1. • Light, crisp white with good acidity that pairs well with dishes highlighting tanginess and/or saltiness
   • Notes of fresh lime, blackcurrant and lemon shortbread
   • Here are 5 keto recipes that incorporate fresh tanginess and saltiness to harmonize and offset with the NA wine’s acidity:

1. 1. • Tangy Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Mushrooms (hors d’oeuvre or appetizer)
      • Parmigiano and Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce (entree))
      • Creamy Goat Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Caps with Balsamic Drizzle (hors d’oeuvre or appetizer)
      • Parmigiano-Crusted Cauliflower Steaks with Caper-Olive Tapenade (side dish)
      • Crispy Parmigiano-Crusted Zucchini Fries with Lemon-Garlic Aioli (hors d’oeuvre or appetizer or side dish)

Joyus Sparkling White:

• • Awarded Best-of-Class and Double Gold by Sunset
  • Light, crisp, white with good acidity that pairs well with dishes highlighting tanginess and/or saltiness
  • Notes of crisp green apple, fragrant fall pear and a ripe melon finish, these flavors do a delicious dance on your palate.
  • Here are 5 keto recipes that incorporate fresh tanginess and saltiness to harmonize and offset with the NA wine’s acidity:

1. 1. • Mini Lemon-Apple Prosciutto Wraps (hors d’oeuvre or appetizer)
      • Tangy Apple and Goat Cheese Bites (hors d’oeuvre or appetizer)
      • Lemon-Infused Apple and Avocado Salad Cups (side dish or appetizer)
      • Lemon-Apple and Smoked Salmon Canapés (hors d’oeuvre)
      • Zesty Apple and Walnut Lettuce Wraps (hors d’oeuvre or appetizer)

Rosés:

ONES Sparkling Rosé:

• • (Click this link for a 10% discount on ALL Ones Sparkling Wines)
  • Light, crisp white with good acidity that pairs well with dishes highlighting tanginess and/or saltiness
  • Notes of fresh strawberries
  • Here are 5 keto recipes that incorporate fresh tanginess and saltiness to harmonize and offset with the NA wine’s acidity:
    • Lemon Chicken Piccata (entree)
    • Grilled Chicken with Lemon and Capers (entree)
    • Lemon Caper Chicken (entree)
    • Low Carb Lemon Chicken Piccata (entree)
    • Easy Chicken Piccata with Lemon Caper Sauce (entree)

Joyus Rosé:

• • Lower in calories and sugar compared to their sparkling white
  • Light, crisp bubbly with good acidity
  • Notes of watermelon, ripe peaches and fresh herbs without the sweetness
  • Here are 5 keto recipe s that incorporate fresh tanginess and saltiness to harmonize and offset with the NA wine’s acidity:
    • Lemon Caper Salmon with Crispy Prosciutto (entree)
    • Bacon-Wrapped Salmon with Lime Butter Sauce (entree)
    • Prosciutto-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Caper Cream (entree)
    • Citrus Salmon with Caper and Bacon Relish (entree)
    • Lemon Dill Salmon with Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus (entree)

Joyus Sparkling Rosé:

• • Similar to their sparkling white in calorie and sugar content
  • Light, crisp bubbly with good acidity
  • Notes of citrus, strawberries and blackberries
  • Here are 5 Keto recipes that incorporate fresh tanginess and saltiness
    • Lemony Tuna Cucumber Bites
    • Keto Tuna Melt Cups
    • Tuna Salad Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
    • Crispy Tuna Cakes with Lemon Aioli
    • Tuna and Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Reds:

ONES Sparkling Red:

• • Calories: 18 per 250mL (approximately 7.2 calories per oz)
  • Sugar: 0g per serving
  • (Click this link for a 10% discount on ALL Ones Sparkling Wines)
  • Light, crisp bubbly with good acidity
  • Notes of blackberry and pomegranate
  • Here are 5 Keto recipes that incorporate fresh tanginess and saltiness to harmonize and offset with the NA wine’s acidity:
    • Beef Crostini with Feta and Capers (hors d’oeuvre)
    • Bacon-Wrapped Beef Bites with Blue Cheese (hors d’oeuvre)
    • Soy-Glazed Beef Skewers with Parmigiano (hors d’oeuvre)
    • Beef Carpaccio with Capers and Parmesan Shavings (hors d’oeuvre)
    • Mini Beef Sliders with Bacon and Blue Cheese (hors d’oeuvre)

Sovi Reserve Red:

• • Low in calories and sugar
  • Medium-bodied with structure and tannin
  • Notes of boysenberry, plum, cassis, and warm baking spices
  • Here are 5 Keto recipes that incorporate game meats (with low saturated fat) and saltiness
    • • Keto Venison Meat Pie (entree)
      • Wild Game Charcuterie Board (hors d’oeuvre)
      • Keto Veal Pie with Feta (entree)
      • Bacon-Wrapped Game Meat (entree)
      • Soy-Glazed Game Meat Skewers (hors d’oeuvre)

Joyus Cabernet Sauvignon:

• • Higher in calories but relatively low in sugar
  • Medium weight with gentle tannins
  • Notes of dark berries, vanilla and oak
  • Here are 5 Keto recipes that celebrate red meats with saltiness to offset the NA wine’s tannin
    • Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Butter (entree)
    • Garlic and Herb Crusted Prime Rib Roast (entree)
    • Keto Beef Bulgogi with Soy Sauce Marinade (entree)
    • Salt and Pepper Crusted Lamb Chops (entree)
    • Prosciutto-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Rosemary (entree)

YOURS Non-Alcoholic California Red Blend:

• • Low in both calories and sugar
  • Medium weight with fruit forward character
  • Notes of dark cherry and peppercorns
  • Here are 5 Keto recipes that celebrate red meats with saltiness to offset the NA wine’s tannin
    • Soy-Ginger Flank Steak Rolls
    • Parmesan-Crusted Ribeye Steak
    • Salted Butter Basted Sirloin Roast
    • Keto Beef Brisket with Soy-Garlic Glaze
    • Anchovy Butter Lamb Skewers

La Colombette Alcohol Removed Cabernet Sauvignon:

• • Low in calories and sugar
  • Medium body, velvet texture,
  • Notes of blackberries, cassis, licorice
  • Here are 5 Keto recipes that celebrate red meats with saltiness to offset the NA wine’s tannin
    • Venison Steak with Blue Cheese Sauce
    • Wild Boar Bacon-Wrapped Medallions
    • Duck Breast with Soy-Ginger Glaze
    • Elk Ribeye with Garlic Herb Butter
    • Pheasant Saltimbocca

How Do You Stay On Keto And Avoid Alcohol At Social Events? 

Embracing a keto lifestyle is about more than just dieting or making sacrifices. It’s about empowering yourself to prioritize your health and well-being. When you fully commit to this lifestyle, avoiding choices that don’t align with your goals becomes second nature, not a struggle.True commitment transforms what might seem like sacrifices into natural choices. Think about other areas in your life where you’re deeply committed – you likely don’t focus on the challenges or time involved because your dedication makes it effortless.To stay keto and avoid alcohol at social events:

1. Reaffirm your commitment to your well-being
2. Recognize that declining alcohol isn’t a sacrifice, but a positive choice
3. Opt for keto-friendly, non-alcoholic alternatives like low-sugar mocktails or sparkling water
4. If desired, choose low-sugar, non-alcoholic wines that complement your health goals
5. Remember, fitting in doesn’t require compromising your lifestyle

By approaching social situations with confidence in your choices, you can navigate them without feeling pressured. Your commitment to keto becomes a source of strength, not limitation.

Are There Any Hidden Carbs In Non-Alcoholic Wines To Watch Out For?

Yes, there are hidden carbs in non-alcoholic wines that you should watch out for, especially if you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Added ingredients: Non-alcoholic wines often contain added ingredients to compensate for the lack of alcohol. One such ingredient is glycerol.
2. Glycerol’s role: Glycerol is added to give non-alcoholic wine some weight and perceived fruit sweetness, mimicking the mouthfeel and taste of regular wine.
3. Glycerol classification: Glycerol is a sugar alcohol, which means it’s neither a sugar nor an alcohol in the traditional sense.
4. Carb counting for sugar alcohols: Sugar alcohols, including glycerol, can affect your carb count, but not at full value. Generally, you should count half of the carbs from sugar alcohols toward your daily total.
5. Example calculation: If a non-alcoholic wine has 10 grams of carbs (likely from glycerol) and zero sugar, you would count 5 grams of carbs toward your daily keto macros.
6. Label reading: Pay close attention to the nutrition labels on non-alcoholic wines. Look for total carbohydrates, sugars, and any mention of sugar alcohols or glycerol.
7. Variability: The carb content can vary significantly between different brands and types of non-alcoholic wines, so always check the specific product you’re considering.

What’s The Proper Way To Toast With Non-Alcoholic Wine At Keto Events?

Here’s a guide to the proper way to toast with wine, including the important points you mentioned:

1. Hold the glass correctly:

   • Hold the wine glass by the stem or base
   • Avoid holding the bowl of the glass
   • Keeping your hands off the bowl prevents warming the wine
   • It also avoids leaving greasy fingerprints that can interfere with your enjoyment of the wine and the appearance of the glass

2. Prepare for the toast:

   • Stand up (unless it’s a small, informal gathering)
   • Make eye contact with the person proposing the toast

3. Raise your glass:

   • Lift your glass to about chest height
   • Keep the glass slightly tilted towards the center of the group

4. Listen to the toast:

   • Pay attention to the person giving the toast
   • Remain quiet and respectful during the speech

5. Acknowledge the toast:

   • When the speaker finishes, raise your glass slightly higher
   • Say the appropriate toast for your country:
     • Salud (Spanish)
     • Prost (German)
     • Kanpai (Japanese)
     • Cin cin (Italian)
     • Skål (Scandinavian)
     • Santé (French)
     • Yamas (Greek)
     • Na zdorovie (Russian)
     • Gānbēi (Chinese)
     • Sláinte (Irish)

6. Clink glasses (optional):

   • If clinking, gently touch the bowls of the glasses together
   • Make eye contact with each person as you clink.  This is a sign of respect.
   • In larger groups, it’s acceptable to clink with those near you or simply raise your glass

7. Look at the NA Wine and Assess its Color:

   • Hold the glass up to the light or against a white background
   • Observe if the wine is clear or foggy
   • Check for wine crystals, also known as tartrate crystals or “wine diamonds”
   • Wine crystals are harmless, naturally occurring tartaric acid crystals that form during fermentation or aging. They’re a sign of quality and don’t affect the taste

8. Swirl The Alcohol-Free Wine’s Aromas and Nose The Wine:

   • Gently swirl the NA wine in your glass
   • This aerates the wine, releasing its aromas
   • It also allows you to observe the NA wine’s “legs” or “tears” on the glass, indicating alcohol content and body
   • After swirling, bring the glass to your nose and take a gentle sniff
   • This step enhances your tasting experience by engaging your sense of smell, which is crucial to fully appreciating the NA wine’s flavors

9. Sip the Zero Alcohol Wine:

   • Take a small sip of the NA wine after the toast
   • Aerate the non-alc wine.  Pull air into your mouth to mix with the wine.  The air will carry the aromas to your nose through your olfactory channel.  So you will be smelling the wine as you are tasting it, increasing your pleasure
   • Swirl the wine in your mouth.  Access it’s flavors and body.
   • Swallow the wine and access it’s finish.  Does the wine linger on your palate or dissipate quickly?
   • It’s considered polite to at least taste the wine, even if you don’t finish it

10. Return to your seat:

    • If standing, sit down after the toast is complete

What Other Keto and Low-Carb Dishes Complement Alcohol Free Wine

This blog showcases a wide array of Keto and Low-Carb Recipes that pair beautifully with non-alcoholic wine. Each recipe includes a thoughtful NA wine suggestion, perfect for serving to your guests. Designed with intimate gatherings in mind, these recipes typically yield 4 servings, making them ideal for small dinner parties.

Here they are:

2-INGREDIENT KETO IDEAS 99+

Fish:

Cajun Salmon (Heart Healthy)

Maple Lemon Salmon (Heart Healthy)

Salmon with Lemon, Honey, Thyme

Smoked Salmon Rolls (Heart Healthy)

Tuna Spring Rolls

Chicken:

Cinnamon Marmalade Chicken (Heart Healthy)

Curry Chicken Quarters (Heart Healthy)

Chicken Marsala (Heart Healthy)

Montreal Chicken Quarters (Heart Healthy)

Keto Low-Carb Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs (Heart Healthy)

Coconut Coasted Drumsticks

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings

Pork:

Bacon-Wrapped Chorizo

BBQ Pork

Keto Low-Carb Pulled Pork (Heart Healthy)

Stuffed Pork Chops (Heart Healthy)

Bacon-Covered Meatloaf (Heart Healthy)

Apple Butter Ribs

Beef:

Crock-Pot Beef (Heart Healthy)

Bacon-Covered Meatloaf (Heart Healthy)

Roast Beef Spice Rub (Heart Healthy)

Beef Bone Broth (Heart Heathy)

Mama Meatloaf (Heart Healthy)

Korean Short Ribs

Best Meatballs

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Shari MAC

Shari MAC at Understand Publishing Inc.

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