Is Non-Alcoholic Wine Worth the Hype?

Hi, I’m Antoine, Product Lead at Vivre le Vin, and I’ll admit—I’ve been sceptical about non-alcoholic wine. When you think about wine, it’s not just the taste but the ritual, the complexity, and the moment it creates. Can a wine without alcohol deliver that same experience?

The thing is, more and more people are asking for it. Whether it’s for health reasons, personal choice, or just curiosity, the demand for alcohol-free wine is skyrocketing. Globally, the market is growing by nearly 8% a year, and here in Switzerland, I see it at tastings and events—more people are looking for options that don’t compromise elegance or flavour.

Today, I’m diving into what makes non-alcoholic wine a growing trend. And as part of this, I’ll share my thoughts on Bolero, a non-alcoholic wine from Switzerland’s Château Constellation. Is it worth trying? Let’s find out.

The Rise of Mindful Drinking

To understand the appeal of non-alcoholic wine, you must look at what drives it. Across Europe, alcohol consumption has been steadily declining, especially among younger generations. A recent study showed that 27% of Gen Z now identify as teetotalers, and Millennials aren’t far behind.

This isn’t about giving up wine entirely—it’s about balance. Movements like Dry January and #SoberCurious have normalized cutting back without cutting out. Then there’s zebra striping, where people alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at social events. It’s all about enjoying the ritual without overindulging.

In Switzerland, this trend feels natural. We’re a health-conscious country where activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling are ingrained in our lifestyle. Pair that with a love of quality and tradition, and non-alcoholic wines make a lot of sense.

What Makes Switzerland Unique

Swiss winemaking is small-scale but world-class. Regions like Valais, where Château Constellation is based, produce exceptional wines thanks to sunny climates, mineral-rich soils, and meticulous craftsmanship.

However, Switzerland’s approach to wine is also deeply innovative. From embracing organic practices to experimenting with new grape varieties, Swiss producers are unafraid to push boundaries. This blend of tradition and forward-thinking makes non-alcoholic wine a natural fit here.

The Science of Non-Alcoholic Wine

Creating non-alcoholic wine isn’t as simple as skipping fermentation. High-quality options like Bolero start life as regular wine. Then, the alcohol is removed through vacuum distillation, which preserves the wine’s flavour compounds while gently extracting the alcohol.

Still, there are challenges. Alcohol provides body warmth, so removing it can leave a wine feeling thin or one-dimensional. The best producers tweak their blends to create a balanced final product—and that’s where artistry comes in.

Testing for You: Bolero by Château Constellation

I decided to give Bolero a try, starting with the Bolero Rouge.

The Packaging

First impressions count, and Bolero nails it. The bottle looks like a traditional wine, complete with a cork. That slight touch adds to the experience, preserving the ritual of uncorking.

Bolero Rouge

Made from de-alcoholized Cabernet Sauvignon, it pours a beautiful ruby red. The nose is spicy with hints of vanilla, but on the palate, it’s light—maybe too light for fans of big, bold reds. Still, it works well with a cheese board or roasted veggies.

Bolero Blanc

This Riesling-based white impressed me more. It’s crisp, floral, and refreshing, with notes of elderflower and vanilla. Pair it with seafood or a salad, and it’s a winner.

Who’s Drinking Non-Alcoholic Wine?

This category isn’t just for teetotalers—it’s surprisingly diverse:

• Younger Drinkers: Millennials and Gen Z value health and are willing to try new things. Non-alcoholic wine lets them participate in social rituals without alcohol.
• Older Generations: For those cutting back for health reasons, it’s a way to enjoy the traditions they love.
• Event Hosts: Offering non-alcoholic wine ensures everyone feels included, especially at weddings or business events.

Here in Switzerland, urban consumers are leading the way, particularly in Zurich and Geneva, where wellness culture is strongest. But the trend is spreading fast, even in smaller towns.

How Bolero Compares

Bolero isn’t the only name in non-alcoholic wine. Competitors like Germany’s Leitz Eins Zwei Zero or Spain’s Natureo have set a high bar. Bolero stands out for its Swiss craftsmanship and connection to Valais terroir, but there’s room to grow. Sparkling options or more varietals could help it stand out further.

Local Availability

For those in Switzerland, Bolero is widely available in Valais, and select wine shops are available in Zurich and Geneva. At Vivre le Vin, we’ve included Bolero in our curated selection of non-alcoholic wines so you can order it directly from our online shop.

My Final Thoughts

Non-alcoholic wine isn’t about replacing traditional wine but offering another choice. Bolero is an excellent option for dinner parties or casual evenings, especially if you want to include guests who aren’t drinking.

Would I drink it every night? Probably not. But as someone who loves the ritual of wine, I think Bolero is onto something. It’s thoughtful, approachable, and uniquely Swiss. If you’re curious, I’d recommend giving it a try.

Cheers,
Antoine
Product Lead, Vivre le Vin