Australian couple Paul Legaz and Amanda Gabriel own a wine distribution business called Vinzero, specialising in no-alcoholic wine, beers and cocktails.
It was created after Paul realised he was becoming dependent on alcohol, and it had a serious impact on his health.
“I drank far too much, for far too long. I was struggling both physically and emotionally, and life became totally unmanageable,” he says.
“Back in 2017, I had a doctor tell me that I was one phase from cirrhosis of the liver, so the decision to stop drinking was made a lot easier.”
With two teenagers and a young child, Paul decided to turn his life around and put his health first, but he didn’t want to compromise on taste.
A trip to Spain introduced him to his first dealcoholised wine, and the idea for Vinzero was born.
“My mission was to curate the finest quality alcohol-free products in all categories from around the world,” Paul says.
“It’s satisfying knowing that what I live and breathe, has a positive influence on society,” Paul says.
Vinzero stocks alcohol-free wines, beers and spirits from around the globe, including Vinada Wines. which has won 15 wine awards since 2018.
Vinada CEO and mother of two Jess van Spaendonck created the first international sparkling wine and is thrilled to offer her products to Australians through Vinzero.
“It all started when I wasn’t allowed to drink alcohol for medical reasons,” Jess says.
“As soon as I realised I couldn’t find a good non-alcoholic wine, I thought there must be others out there looking for a satisfying alternative.”
While Australia is known for its drinking culture, there is a push to include more non-alcoholic options in the hospitality industry.
Between 2016 and 2019, the number of ex-drinkers in Australia rose from 1.5 million to 1.9 million; 21 percent of 18 to 24-year-old and 24 percent of 25 to 29 year olds don’t drink.
These figures hav more than doubled since 2001.
“More and more people in Australia and globally, are choosing a healthier lifestyle,” Paul says.
“Our products look like, smell like and taste like alcohol, just without any of the nasties that go with alcohol.”
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