Piquette Zero Wine Spritzers with Savory Seafood Bites
Recently I came across a Canadian, non alcoholic wine spritzers company called Piquette Zero. Piquette Zero offers 3 products, available in 750 mL wine bottles or in single serving cans (250 mL). They are vegan, gluten-free, zero alcohol, zero sugar, zero fat, 50 calories each (per 250 mL), and zero net carbs per 8 ounce serving. These sparkling babies are ideal for a low-carb lifestyle, so I decided to give them a try.
How Are Piquette Zero (Non Alcoholic Wine Spritzers) Made?
Piquette Zero beverages do not undergo de-alcoholization like other non alcohol wine products. Instead, winemaker Jean-Benoit Deslauriers employs a unique, low-intervention method to harness the “wine” character from grape skins, tannins, and hops. This ground-breaking approach captures the quintessential essence of traditional wine without relying on grape fermentation followed by de-alcoholization techniques.
The result? Three distinct, non-alcoholic wine spritzer varieties that defy convention – Original, Ruby, and Pink.
Piquette Zero redefines the boundaries of what a non alcoholic wine beverage can be. As far as I know, Benjamin Bridge is the only Canadian company producing this style of non alcoholic wine spritzers.
Where do Piquette Zero (Non Alcoholic Wine Spritzers) Come From?
A little about Benjamin Bridge Vineyards:
Gerry McConnell and his late wife Dara Gordon founded Benjamin Bridge Vineyards in 1999 with a vision of creating an organic, sustainable vineyard in Nova Scotia’s Gaspereau Valley. Their shared dream was to produce world-class traditional method sparkling wines that captured the region’s terroir. Sadly, Dara passed away, but Gerry and their daughters Ashley and Devon have carried on the family legacy. Today, with renowned winemaker Jean-Benoit Deslauriers at the helm, Benjamin Bridge has become one of Canada’s top sparkling wine producers. They also cater to low-alcohol and no-alcohol consumers.
Can You Drink Piquette Zero Non Alcoholic Wine Spritzers on a Keto or Low-Carb Diet?
The answer is yes! Earlier I shared that 1 can or 8 ounce serving (250 mL) of Piquette Zero Non Alcoholic Wine Spritzers contains zero net carbs. This is how it works. Each Piquette Zero spritzer contains zero sugar and 10 grams of carbs per 8 ounce serving. The 10 grams of carbs derive from glycerine. Glycerine contributes body (mouth feel) and the perception of sweetness to a product. Glycerine is also a sugar alcohol. Though not as much as sugar, sugar alcohols can raise your blood sugar. The 10 grams of glycerine will likely cause a modest blood sugar spike. (The spike may be higher for people with diabetes or insulin resistance.).
Keep in mind that if you sip a Piquette Zero with low-carb dishes high in protein and healthy fats, the presence of these macronutrients can help slow down the absorption of the sugar alcohols and the subsequent rise in blood sugar. The protein and fat take longer to digest, which delays the absorption of the sugar alcohols into the bloodstream.
Counting Carbs:
When counting carbs from sugar alcohols on your keto diet or low-carb lifestyle, you generally only need to count half of the grams toward your daily net carb intake. So, one (8 ounce) serving of Piquette Zero with 10 grams of carbs can be included in your daily carb count as only 5 grams. One 8 ounce serving has 5 net carbs. That means Piquette Zero is zero carbs per one ounce.
If you’ve read any of my other blogs, you’ll know that I set a boundary around how many carbs I will consume per ounce from any non alcoholic beverage. My limit is 1.5 net carbs per ounce. So Piquette Zero spritzers meet and surpass my expectations.
If striving for or in maintaining ketosis, I would hold off on sipping the Piquette Zero products. The sugar alcohol may kick you out of ketosis. I don’t know for sure. Everyone’s ketosis experience is unique. But my assumption is that if sugar alcohol produce a modest blood sugar spike, this could be enough to kick you to the ketogenic curb.
It’s better to save these sparkling gems for when you’re in maintenance mode.
Where are Piquette Zero Products Available?
You can find Piquette Zero at the following locations:
In Atlantic Canada:
- Sobeys
- Atlantic Superstore
- Pete’s Frootique
- Benjamin Bridge Winery
- Local independent grocers
Nationwide in Canada:
- Sobeys
- Safeway
- The Sobr Market
It is also available at select retailers in the United States, Japan, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. Check out the website.
How Do Piquette Zero Non Alcoholic Wine Spritzers Taste?
I tried the Piquette Zero non alcoholic wine spritzers in the cans. I discovered that they seem to retain their effervesce for a long time if sipped right from the cans. If poured into a glass, the bubbles don’t last as long. I’m not sure about how long the products retain their sparkling nature when poured from the 750 mL wine bottles. There is no reason, really, to pour them into a glass as the cans possess lovely labels!
Piquette Zero Pink:
Love the sipper! The can is adorned with soft colours of fresh fruits, pretty enough to serve at wedding and baby showers and girlfriend get-togethers. The spritzer itself boasts a delicate pink hue. The nose is a delightful bouquet of fresh peaches and mangos. On the palate, it is luscious yet clean, offering a subtle sweetness of peach and mango. This beverage is versatile, perfect for lunch, brunch, or dinner, and ideal for picnics or sunbathing by the lake. Chill it in the refrigerator until it’s bone cold for a refreshing treat. It also serves as a lovely hydrator after a long 10-mile walk.
Here is the link to purchase Piquette Zero Pink:
Benjamin Bridge – Piquette Pink
What Keto dishes complement Piquette Zero Pink?
Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup
I decided to create a culinary symphony with Pink, embracing the magic of opposites attracting. My goal was to craft a dish that would contrast beautifully with the spritzer’s sweet, fruity notes and its refreshing chill.
At the market, I stumbled upon some Brussels sprouts on sale, sparking inspiration. I steamed the Brussels sprouts and blended them in my Vitamix with just enough low-carb skim milk to cover. For seasoning, I chose Celtic salt and freshly ground black pepper. The Vitamix transformed my mixture into a hot, velvety soup. Finding the texture a bit thin, I added a handful of shredded mozzarella, which enriched the soup with creamy goodness. For garnish, I used three dollops of fresh mozzarella and a few fresh sprouts.
Pink’s peach and mango flavors provided a delightful contrast to the pleasant bitterness of the Brussels sprouts. The spritzer’s sweetness also balanced the spiciness of the freshly ground black pepper. The melted mozzarella made the soup rich and creamy, while Pink cleansed my palate between bites, offering a lovely texture contrast between the hot soup and the cold drink.
Piquette Zero Ruby:
Ruby holds a special place in my heart as my favorite Piquette Zero. As it pours into the glass, it unveils a radiant ruby color, adorned with a captivating magenta hue. However, the true effervescence is preserved when sipped directly from the can.
Upon lifting the glass to your lips, you’re greeted by a symphony of aromas; sweet dark cherries and luscious blackberries dance delicately, enticing your senses. With each sip, the palate is enveloped in a cascade of succulent fruit flavors, reminiscent of ripe summer indulgences.
Amidst the sweetness, a subtle essence of fresh lime emerges, adding a tantalizing zest to the experience. The texture is velvety, the body full, and as the last drop caresses your palate, a gentle whisper of black pepper lingers, leaving behind a pristine, refreshing finish.
Here is the link to purchase Piquette Zero Ruby:
Benjamin Bridge – Piquette Ruby
Piquette Zero:
This spritzer sparkles with the clarity of a mountain stream. The nose bursts forth with a symphony of zesty citrus, where lemon and lime dance in harmony. On the palate, it unveils an intriguing medley. The medium weight caresses the tongue, revealing a delightful blend of sweet grapefruit, lemon, and lime that playfully tease the mid-palate. As you savor each sip, a clean, refreshing finish emerges, quenching your thirst and leaving a lingering, invigorating impression.
I decided to create a Keto recipe for this spritzer that’s light in nature so you can enjoy the partnership as a snack or for lunch. I wanted the recipe to be quick and easy to prepare as we don’t want to spend a lot of time preparing snacks and lunch if we intend on having a dinner that takes more time to prepare. Since the spritzer has 5 net carbs per can, I wanted the dish to have as few carbs as possible to keep your snack or lunch with low net carbs. We already must include 5 net carbs from the spritzer with this combination. I decided on Asian Seafood Bites.
The spritzer’s vibrant citrus notes harmonize beautifully with the seafood and lemon drizzle. Its sweet undertones on the palate provide a delightful counterbalance to the fiery kick of wasabi and hot sauce. Be mindful not to overdo the heat and spice, as too much can overshadow the spritzer’s sweetness and diminish its character. The perceived sweetness of the spritzer also enhances the salty nuances of soy sauce and nori papers. Additionally, its medium body pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of avocado mayo, creating a well-rounded and satisfying culinary experience.
Here is the link to purchase Piquette Zero:
Benjamin Bridge – Piquette Zero – 750ml
What Other Keto Dishes Harmonize with Piquette Zero Non Alcoholic Wine Spritzers?
Here are a few recipes to consider:
Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs (Heart Healthy)
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings
Cinnamon Marmalade Chicken (Heart Healthy)
Curry Chicken Quarters (Heart Healthy)
Tuna Avocado Blackberry Salad (Hearty Healthy)
Here are a few other suggestions:
Hors d’oeuvres:
Dill Deviled Eggs – Hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, salt, pepper. Cut eggs in half, remove yolks, mix with other ingredients and refill whites.
Garlic Shrimp Skewers – Shrimp, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, herbs. Marinate shrimp, thread onto skewers and grill.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings – Chicken wings, lemon pepper seasoning, olive oil. Toss wings in oil and seasoning, bake until crispy.
Lemon Dill Avocado Tuna Boats – Avocados, canned tuna, lemon juice, dill, mayo. Mix tuna with other ingredients, scoop into avocado halves
Lunches:
Garlic Zucchini Noodles – Zucchini noodles, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, almonds. Sauté garlic in oil, toss with zoodles, lemon juice, parsley and almonds.
Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps – Cooked chicken, mayo, lemon juice, herbs, lettuce leaves. Mix chicken with mayo, lemon juice and herbs, serve in lettuce cups.
Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps – Canned tuna, mayo, lemon juice, dill, lettuce leaves. Mix tuna with mayo, lemon juice and dill, serve in lettuce cups.
Lemon Basil Zucchini Noodle Salad – Zucchini noodles, lemon juice, basil, olive oil, Parmesan. Toss zoodles with lemon juice, basil, oil and Parmesan.
Grilled Chicken with Arugula Salad – Arugula, grilled chicken, lemon juice, olive oil, Parmesan. Make lemon vinaigrette, toss with arugula, chicken and Parmesan.
Dinners:
Salmon Skewers – Salmon, lemon juice, dill, olive oil. Marinate salmon in lemon, dill and oil, thread onto skewers and grill.
Garlic Shrimp Zoodles – Zucchini noodles, shrimp, lemon juice, garlic, butter. Sauté garlic in butter, add shrimp and lemon juice, toss with zoodles.
Grilled Rosemary Grilled Chicken – Chicken, lemon juice, rosemary, olive oil. Marinate chicken in lemon, rosemary and oil, grill.
Garlic Butter Salmon – Salmon fillets, lemon juice, garlic, butter. Mix lemon juice, garlic and melted butter, pour over baked salmon.
Soups:
Chilled Avocado Lemon Soup – Avocados, lemon juice, broth, herbs. Blend avocados with lemon juice, broth and herbs until smooth.
Cucumber Yogurt Soup – Cucumbers, lemon juice, dill, Greek yogurt, broth. Blend cucumbers with lemon, dill, yogurt and broth.
Sides:
Roasted Asparagus with Garlic – Asparagus, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil. Toss asparagus with lemon juice, garlic and oil, roast.
Roasted Cauliflower with Garlic – Cauliflower florets, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil. Toss cauliflower with lemon juice, garlic and oil, roast.
For preparing the dish described, you’ll need:
- Small Bowl: For mashing the avocado and mixing other ingredients.
- Fork: To mash the avocado.
- Plate: To lay out the cucumber slices and assemble the dish.
- Knife: For slicing the cucumber and cutting seafood (if needed).
- Cutting Board: For cutting cucumber and other ingredients.
- Spoons: For spooning avocado onto seaweed paper and drizzling sriracha.
- Seaweed Paper (Nori): To place on top of cucumber slices as a base.
- Microgreens: To top the avocado with.
- Seafood: Depending on preference, you might need pieces of sushi-grade fish (like tuna or salmon), shrimp, or crab.
- Sriracha Sauce: For drizzling over the assembled dish.
- Lemon: For squeezing fresh lemon juice over the dish.
Optional Equipment:
- Spatula: For mixing ingredients in the small bowl.
- Gloves: Especially if handling spicy ingredients like sriracha.
- Tweezers: For precise placement of microgreens or seafood.
- Small Whisk or Spoon: For mixing ingredients if preferred over a fork.
Ensure your workspace is clean and sanitized, especially when handling raw seafood. Enjoy preparing and serving your dish!
HOW IS SEAFOOD BITES WITH AVOCADO WASABI MAYO PREPARED?
Seafood Bites with Avocado Wasabi Mayo
Ingredients
- 1 English cucumber, sliced diagonally (need 7 or 8 slices)
- 1 package of Organic Roasted Teriyaki Seaweed Snack ( 7 or 8 slices)
- 1 avocado
- 1 tablespoon zero to low-carb mayo
- 1 teaspoon wasabi paste
- 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Microgreens, as needed
- 7 or 8 pieces of cooked seafood of choice (real or imitation crab, shrimp, salmon, tuna)
- Siracha, as needed
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- In a small bowl mash avocado. Add other ingredients. Mix well. Set aside.
- Lay 7 or 8 slices of cucumber on a plate.
- Top each slice with one seaweed paper.
- Spoon a teaspoon of avocado on each paper.
- Top avocado with microgreens.
- Top microgreens with piece of seafood.
- Drizzle with siracha.
- Sprinkle with fresh lemon juice.
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