As the season changes and we begin to slow down, October represents a time for mindfulness and reflection. Sober October, much like its better-known sibling Dry January, encourages us to look inward on our consumption habits and make more enlightened, mindful choices with alcohol.
And whether or not you’re participating in Sober October (be it a week, a month, a year, a lifetime) or are simply seeking out a more sophisticated sip (because why is zero-alcohol often associated with dull, sugary soda options and watered-down iced tea?) AVEC’s beverages, made with real juice and natural botanicals, are here to help you drink better, no matter the situation.
Local Foods had the opportunity to chat with AVEC co-founder Denetrias “Dee” Charlemagne to get her take on Sober October, mindful drinking, and her favorite ways to enjoy AVEC drinks.
In light of Sober October, how do you feel AVEC is committing to the messaging around sobriety and purposeful consumption?
We are embracing the “Flexi-Drinking” mindset. We’re not going total sober, nor are we going full boozy — we are just being more conscious about what we drink.
In other words, what does Sober October mean to you, and AVEC as a company?
We believe that “drinking consciously” means that we are adults with a choice. You should have the option to add booze or not, to know what and how many ingredients are in your drink, and to feel like we can add sugar or not.
AVEC’s Hibiscus and Pomegranate Premium Carbonated Mixer
Was creating a delicious, natural drink for those that may choose not to drink a factor when you were starting AVEC?
AVEC lets people choose whether they want to mix with or without spirit, but they still have an elevated option no matter what. It has always been our mission to help people drink better!
What are your favorite non-alcoholic pairing recommendations for Yuzu & Lime, Ginger, and Hibiscus & Pomegranate?
All are really good on their own with just a squeeze of lime, but if you want to get a little fancy . . .
AVEC’s Yuzu and Lime Premium Carbonated Beverage
I love a Yuzu & Lime Mojito – simply take out the rum or replace it with a non-alcoholic alternative if you are choosing to participate in Sober October.
In cooler weather, I add a little Chinese five spice rim to the Hibiscus & Pomegranate, and it’s SO good.
Ginger I really sip solo mostly, but you can add a little apple cider to it in the fall and its yummy!
AVEC Ginger Premium Carbonated Beverage
AVEC also has a great number of inspired, elevated zero-proof cocktails as well, which you can find here.
AVEC means “with” in French. And as they like to say, AVEC products are made specifically to be mixed with. With alcohol (zero-proof or full), with friends, with feelings and fun. . . So grab some cans, some friends, and some lovely foods pairings (you know Local Foods has them!), and enjoy some effervescent sips this October.
Looking for other refreshing, non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy this Sober October? Shop our market options here, and choose from our selection of natural sodas, sparkling teas, kombucha, zero-proof spirits, beers, and more.