If you’ve followed Benjamin Bridge for a long time - or perhaps even if you are new to our story - you’ll know that our mission since 1999 is to craft excellent sparkling wines that define the Nova Scotia wine region’s terroir and put our beautiful province on the global wine map as a destination not to be missed.
However, our devotion to excellence extends beyond the pursuit of exceptional wines; it encompasses a profound commitment to inclusivity and community. We strive to embody the change we want to see in the world, and to be excellent in all categories of business, not just in our winemaking.
In 2018, we embarked on a journey to research and develop non-alcoholic beverages that would resonate with our customers who were moderating, abstaining, or simply the designated driver, all while aligning with our winery’s established brand. Our main goal was inclusivity: we wanted to ensure that everyone could partake in the Benjamin Bridge experience.
Our Commitment to Inclusivity
Inclusivity is central to our philosophy and has become a cornerstone of contemporary social dynamics. We began our focused efforts on inclusivity in earnest with the introduction of our non-alcoholic beverages, as we believe that everyone, regardless of their choice to consume alcohol or not, should be able to enjoy the sophistication and pleasure of a finely crafted, local Nova Scotia beverage. Additionally, we wanted to ensure our beloved guests who visit our winery year-round would feel welcome, including the designated driver.
When we opened the winery’s doors to the public in 2018, we anticipated our guests would be sparkling wine enthusiasts, Nova 7 lovers, and the people they brought along with them. After our first season, we knew we had to layer on to that thinking, as we noticed in reality our guests also included: small children, elderly parents, friends who abstain from alcohol for cultural reasons, folks who are taking a break from alcohol, folks who are moderating their consumption, pregnant people, pregnant people’s spouses who aren’t drinking in solidarity, and the list goes on. All of these wonderful people enjoyed visiting Benjamin Bridge for the ambiance and the good times, and we knew that offering still or sparkling water just wasn’t going to cut it.
The goal to create beautiful, meaningful, and delicious beverages for these guests became a top priority, and one which we continue to work on today. By offering non-alcoholic options, like Piquette Zero and Nova Zero, we ensure that no one is left out of celebratory moments, family gatherings, or social events, and that we can cater to everyone's preferences and needs. Our non-alcoholic beverages are meticulously crafted to deliver the same depth of flavor and quality as our alcoholic offerings, providing an exquisite experience for all.
Strengthening Community Presence
Benjamin Bridge has always been more than a winery; we are a community-driven project that believes in fostering change and innovation. As a pillar of our community, we take pride in contributing to the vibrancy and inclusivity of our local area, the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia. By offering non-alcoholic beverages, we can service the diverse needs of our community members, fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. For example, designated drivers are providing a crucial community service - by staying sober and driving their family and friends around, they make our country roads safer while enabling their loved ones to have a carefree time visiting the winery.
This approach not only strengthens our bond with our neighbours but also reinforces our role as a community-centric winery.
A Harmonious Mission
Some may view the production of non-alcoholic beverages and world-class sparkling wines as opposing goals, but at Benjamin Bridge, we believe that inclusivity and excellence are not mutually exclusive but are, in fact, two sides of the same coin. By embracing this holistic approach, we create a space where everyone can enjoy the fruits of our labour, celebrate life's moments, and feel a sense of belonging.
The person who is an avid sparkling wine collector also will at some point be a designated driver, which is reason enough to craft extraordinary alcohol alternatives. Before our non-alcoholic program began we met hundreds of guests and fans of Benjamin Bridge who for one reason or another were avoiding alcohol, and this is what inspired us to take the leap into the world of non-alcohol.
Our commitment to crafting world-class sparkling wines and offering exceptional non-alcoholic beverages reflects our unified vision of creating a vibrant, inclusive community that cherishes quality and connection. As we continue to innovate and elevate Nova Scotia's presence on the global wine stage, we remain steadfast in our commitment to inclusivity and community. We invite you to join us on this journey, raising a glass—whether filled with sparkling wine or a refreshing Nova Zero—to the shared joy of exceptional craftsmanship and togetherness.
The Rise of Non-Alcoholic and Alcohol Alternatives
The non-alcoholic beverage industry has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity over the past few years. Once a niche market with limited options of questionable quality, it has evolved into a dynamic and diverse industry, offering a wide range of sophisticated and flavourful alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks. This growth is driven by changing consumer preferences, increased awareness of health and wellness, and a desire for inclusivity in social settings.
Modern consumers are more health-conscious than ever before, seeking out products that align with their lifestyle choices and contribute to their holistic health. Many people are reducing their alcohol consumption or abstaining for set periods of time, driven by a desire to improve their overall well-being, mental clarity, and physical health. This shift in behaviour has spurred demand for high-quality, non-alcoholic alternatives that provide the same sensory experience as alcoholic beverages without the associated downsides.
Non-alcoholic options allow individuals to enjoy the social aspects of drinking without compromising their lifestyle choices. Whether it's a desire to reduce calorie intake, avoid the effects of alcohol on the body, follow cultural or religious norms, or make mindful choices, non-alcoholic beverages cater to a diverse set of consumers.
Why Non-Alcoholic Beverages Are Gaining Popularity So Quickly
Advancements in beverage technology and production methods have significantly enhanced the quality of non-alcoholic drinks. Today's non-alcoholic wines, beers, and spirits are crafted with the same care and expertise as their alcoholic counterparts, resulting in products that offer complexity, depth of flavor, and a satisfying sensory experience. This level of quality has dispelled the notion that non-alcoholic beverages are inferior substitutes, earning them a place on the shelves of discerning consumers.
The availability of non-alcoholic beverages has also expanded significantly, with more producers entering the market and retailers recognising the growing demand. From specialty stores, like our friends at Luminate (Halifax) and the Wellness Exchange (Moncton), to mainstream supermarkets, especially the iconic NS grocer, Sobeys - who immediately embraced our vision and created a path to market through its local program - consumers now have easy access to a wide variety of non-alcoholic options.
Shoring up the wider distribution is the rise of social media and digital platforms, amplifying the visibility and social appeal of non-alcoholic beverages. Online communities, forums, and social media influencers share their experiences and recommendations, creating a buzz around new products and trends. This digital influence has accelerated the adoption of non-alcoholic beverages, particularly among younger consumers who are more likely to seek out and experiment with novel offerings.
The industry is flourishing, driven by a combination of health-conscious consumers, innovative production techniques, and a societal shift towards inclusivity and mindful consumption. At Benjamin Bridge, we are very proud to be part of this movement, offering non-alcoholic beverages that reflect our commitment to quality and community. By embracing the rise of non-alcoholic options, we continue to uphold our mission of crafting exceptional experiences for everyone, ensuring that no one is left out of the celebration.
