Denver, Colorado, known for its thriving craft brewery scene, is now embracing the rising trend of nonalcoholic beer and spirits. The city has seen a significant increase in nonalcoholic options on menus, with a growth rate of over 55% between the fourth quarter of 2022 and the same period in 2023, according to data from Technomic. This surge in interest is primarily driven by younger and health-conscious consumers.
While nonalcoholic beers have been available since Anheuser-Busch launched O’Doul’s in 1990, recent consumer demand has caused an explosion in the sector. Analysts predict that this interest will continue to grow, with nonalcoholic beer volumes expected to increase by about 25% between 2022 and 2026, according to data from the IWSR.
Colorado, specifically Denver, has emerged as a hub for nonalcoholic beverage investment. In 2023, Colorado was the second-highest state accounting for nonalcoholic beverage investment, according to data from NielsenIQ. The city’s population, which includes many health-conscious and active individuals, has shown a keen interest in reducing alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
One of the key players in the nonalcoholic beer market in Denver is Ceria Brewing Company. Founded by Keith and Jodi Villa in 2018, Ceria fully focuses on alcohol-free beer and has found success, particularly among younger consumers. Keith Villa mentioned that nonalcoholic and alcohol-free beers can be made using various methods, including removing alcohol with vacuum distillation, using specialty yeast, or diluting low-alcohol beer with water. However, creating nonalcoholic spirits is more challenging and time-consuming for breweries.
Denver’s beer-centric culture has made it a perfect fit for the rise of nonalcoholic beer and spirits. Food trend expert Kara Nielsen noted that Denver residents love to celebrate and have fun, making the availability of nonalcoholic options a natural fit. Grüvi, a Denver-based brewery, has capitalized on this trend by offering a wide range of nonalcoholic offerings since its founding five years ago. Co-founder Niki Sawni mentioned that Grüvi chose Colorado as its base due to the state’s residents’ preference for a healthier lifestyle and the potential for growth in the alcohol-free market.
The rise of nonalcoholic beer and spirits has also fostered collaboration and support between larger, legacy alcoholic breweries and newer nonalcoholic-focused breweries. Denver Beer Co., founded 13 years ago, has incorporated sparkling hop water, a nonalcoholic alternative, into its menus. CEO Robert MacEachern emphasized the company’s commitment to inclusivity and providing options for all consumers. Nonalcoholic beverages have allowed Denver Beer Co. to adapt to customer tastes while staying true to its core identity.
Overall, Denver’s craft brewery scene has embraced the nonalcoholic trend, recognizing the demand from consumers who want to enjoy a sociable drink without alcohol. Nonalcoholic beer and spirits have become an addition to the city’s thriving craft beer culture, appealing to health-conscious individuals and offering a refreshing option for those looking to reduce their alcohol intake. As the trend continues to grow, Denver remains at the forefront of innovation and change in the craft brewery industry.
