A new year has started, and some resolutions may have already gone out the door. While changing one’s habits might seem like a simple thing to do when off work and relaxed, once reality kicks in, it is easy to go back to what we know. Yet while 2026 might not be the year during which everything will change completely, now could be the opportunity to shake things up at least a little by taking small steps towards bigger goals. Participating in Dry or Damp January could be such a step.
For many, the festive period is traditionally one filled with wine, champagne, and other alcoholic beverages. And while indulging in such delicacies every now and then should not be a problem, reducing one’s alcohol intake during the month of January can have a lot of benefits. From weight loss to better sleep, from mood improvements to immunity boosts: there is a lot to say for drinking no or less alcohol. And to make life easier, we’ve listed five non-alcoholic yet chic drinks, setting the stage for a successful Dry or Damp January.
1. An adult-proof soda
Drinking a soda instead of a glass of wine or a cocktail doesn’t have to be hard. While sodas often make us think of overly-sweet Cokes and lemonades, in 2026, there are a lot more adult-proof and less sweet-tasting alternatives out there. Drinks that are both refreshing and refined, sodas that will have anyone reaching for a second glass.
Depending on personal preferences, there is a lot to be found on the adult-proof soda market. Some of our personal favourites are the Grapefruit Soda by Double Dutch, the Original ready-to-drink can by Gimber, and the Sparkling Elderflower drink by Whole Earth.
2. A multi-purpose concentrate
Whether one would like to mix an alcohol-free cocktail at home or make a heartwarming cup of tea, there are many ways to step up the game. Natural concentrates and elixirs are the perfect ingredients to keep in the cupboard or fridge, since they can often be stored for quite a while and since they are so multi-purpose. From making popsicles to mocktails, with a little imagination, they will turn out to be extraordinary.
Sapinca’s Root, Fruit, and Herb Elixirs are organic and based on long-forgotten South American flavours. The brand’s mocktail recipes in particular are a true treasure trove for those looking for alcohol-free inspiration. Gimber’s concentrates, be it the original or one of the variations, also make for a great multi-purpose, alcohol-free addition to anyone’s cupboard.
3. A qualitative mixer for mocktails
Speaking of mocktails: a fancy mixer can do quite a bit for its overall taste. Instead of reaching for that not-so-great supermarket tonic, next time, try choosing a more distinguished option. Natural or with some added flavour, to each their own.
Multiple brands are currently focusing their attention on developing premium mixers. JNPR has a sugar-free version, Koro sells a so-called tonic syrup to mix at home, and Double Dutch even has a special Cranberry & Ginger Tonic Water.
4. A tasty alcohol-free wine
Alcohol-free wines have long been a category of drinks shunned by many. Yet the days of undrinkable grape juice and sour bottles lie far behind us. Anno 2026, many Michelin-starred restaurants are offering a selection of delicious alcohol-free wines, and some wine stores have even turned fully alcohol-free.
As with all wines, however, personal tastes do vary widely. Some might prefer a sweet white, while others may opt for a dry rosé or a full-bodied red. Some producers that come highly recommended and could be worth trying include Chavin Zéro’s wines, Moderato, and DIVIN.
5. A surprisingly good non-alcoholic beer
As with wines, alcohol-free beers have come a long way since their early days. Still, many have a long way to go before becoming drinkable, and others taste more like a can of soda than like an old-fashioned bottle of beer.
So, which one to choose when standing in front of the alcohol-free beer selection at the local store? Of course, everything depends on where you are doing groceries, but some of the best options we’ve been able to taste so far include Sportzot, Brussels Beer Project’s Delta Zero, and La Chouffe’s alcohol free beer.
