No Lo Guide – Sinless sips for healthy festive fun

Corks are flying and bubbles are fizzing as we come into the party season. If you’re trying to dial down the indulgence this year, here are some wonderful ways to make merry without the holiday hangover.

 Giesen 0% Sparkling Brut

We sneaked an early sample of this sassy sparkler earlier this year, when Giesen’s other saintly sips made their debut. Finally publicly available as well, this 0% Sparkling Brut features “zesty lemon and grapefruit aromas, balanced with pear and stonefruit blossom flavours”. We liked it very much back in July and think it’s perfect for summer celebrations. Giesen 0% Sparkling Brut (AUD$19.99 RRP) is available from November 2023 at Woolworths stores nationwide.

Kakadu Kitchen x ALTD Native Peach Bellini

We enjoyed an exclusive taste of this peachy-sweet native peach Bellini, part of a collab between Kakadu Kitchen and ALTD. It’s made with an-marabula, Kakadu native peach, ethically harvested by Bininj people in Kakadu National Park, de-alcoholised wine and botanical extracts. Created by Ben Tyler, who wants to help share his community’s culture, it’s ultra fruity and ultra fragrant with a tingly sparkle. Native Peach Bellini is available from No&Low Drinks Co for $32/4 x 250ml cans.

Kakadu Kitchen x OzHarvest Conscious Drink

Kakadu Kitchen is also partnering with OzHarvest on a limited edition “conscious drink” with rescued blueberries, lemongrass, saltbush and warm, spicy pepperberry. It aims to “celebrate the beauty of natural rescued or foraged Australian fruits and botanicals”. The bottles are decorated by Bininj artist Trentin Rasmussen and make a fabulous festive addition to the Christmas table. Kakadu Kitchen x OzHarvest Conscious Drink is available from OzHarvest for $30/bottle.

Squealing Pig 0% wines

Billed as “wine without the whine”, Squealing Pig has unveiled two new ranges of wine alternatives featuring no and low alcohol options. There’s a zero-alcohol Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé, which come in 750ml or picnic-perfect 375ml bottles. Those wanting a little bit of a buzz can try the Mid Pig range portfolio, with a low-alcohol Prosecco, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc (all 750ml bottles). Squealing Pig is available in the alcohol-free aisle in all major supermarkets and select on premise venues. (RRP $11) Squealing Pig Mid Pig is available now at all major liquor stores (RRP $20).

Vinada sparkling sippers

Vinada’s sparkling wine range of non-alcoholic Chardonnay, Rosé and Airén are created from French and Spanish grapes (Chardonnay, Tempranillo and Airén) and are all fully vegan. The Chardonnay has notes of apple, melon and a touch of citrus, the Airén Gold zings with lemon and bruised apple, while the Rosé is fruity with strawberry, redcurrant and raspberry vibes. A case of six is available from $136.80 from Vinada.com.au as well as a tasting box of three piccolo versions with golden sippers for an elegant swig.

About the author

Lisa Creffield is a Sydney-based writer originally from the UK. Years of horrifying English school dinners sparked a desire to find something more delicious. Having also lived for six years in the Middle East, Lisa loves discovering new and exciting places and cuisines, from manti in Kazakhstan to sea urchin in Shanghai.