Move over Dry January, make room for Semi-Wet Summer! Stats Canada reports that 67 per cent of adults between the ages of 18 and 22 haven’t had an alcoholic drink in the past week, and a quarter of Gen Z and Millennials are exploring alcohol-free lifestyles. Luckily, breweries across Ontario cottage country are rising to the occasion and are offering non-alcoholic options for those who want to be included in the dockside revelry without compromising their sobriety. Cathy Brown, the co-owner of Perth Brewery reports seeing an “exponential growth” in non-alch sales, and anticipates a continuation of this trend as we head into cottaging and boating season. Additionally, Perth Brewery has made an effort to pair their non-alch with regular alcohol beers, that way you can easily switch from a standard beer to non-alcoholic beer without experiencing a jarring change in the drinking experience.
Here is our guide to the best non or low-alcohol options available from cottage-country breweries:
1. Perth Brewery
If you aren’t ready to make the switch to non-alcoholic beer entirely, don’t fret! You can try mixing in a few throughout the day to curb your alcohol consumption. Perth Brewery’s non-alcoholic IPA iPYAY! is suited to those who are looking for that IPA flavour. This non-alch option will give you the hoppy, full-bodied taste without the side effects.
Perth Brewery’s Non-Alch Lager Play is a favourite of Perth Brewery patrons, and it’s only 45 calories! Try out the non-alch mixed six pack for a surprise mix of the two.
Check out their website here: Perth Brewery
2. Muskoka Brewery
Are you looking for that perfect midday boat beer? Craving something light and citrusy? Look no further than Muskoka Brewery’s non-alcoholic Lager with Lime Veer. This easy drinking faux beer promises a well-balanced flavour with a clean finish—and no compromise on flavour.
Check out their website here: Muskoka Brewery
3. Lake of Bays Brewing Co.
The winner of the 2023 Bronze Canadian and Bronze Ontario Brewing award, the Near Shore Hazy Pale Ale from Lake of Bays Brewing Co. has a clean mouthfeel and notes of peach, tangerine, and strawberry. This 2.5 per cent ABV option will put the perfect amount of pep back into your step on a hot summer day.
Check out their website here: Lake of Bays Brewing Co.
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