Episode 19: The Rise of NOLO (Side Bar with Graham MacLennan, Cheftimony)

This episode is about the trending NOLO space - the world of “non-alc” and “low- alc” drinks. Returning guest Graham MacLennan (creator and producer of the Cheftimony Podcast) joins Tania to discuss their respective explorations in the NOLO world, and to share their observations about what’s working (and not working) in the non-alc and low-alc landscape. What’s driving the expansion of the “no” and “low” markets? How do we look at pricing and value in the context of a non-alc or low-alc drink (as compared to a libation containing alcohol)? How does this all work in the art of pairing food and wine, if you’re looking to swap out the wine part? And importantly, what’s the future of wine’s place in the context of an exploding non-alcoholic product market? Tania discusses some of the “existential angst” being felt in parts of the alcohol beverage sector arising from very strong Neo-Prohibitionist currents seeking to push wine off our tables. Ultimately, it’s all about balance, choice and human connectivity. Graham and Tania discuss how all three of these elements may be achieved, no matter what we choose to pour into our glass, through continuing to embrace our stories and rituals.