The complete absence of alcohol during Dry January is notoriously difficult to follow through on, particularly if you're a lover of wine. Many 0% options aren't as flavourful as the real thing and could lead you to giving in quickly.
Naked Wines and its low alcohol selection is on hand to help when it comes to a softer 'Damp January' approach that might suit you better. Why? Because it's focused on reducing your intake and building healthier habits, all without compromising on the tastiness of your tipples.
No, you don't need to go teetotal
Much like setting a lofty New Year's resolution, committing to a Dry January often results in failure (data from Sunnyside reveals only 38% of Dry January participants make it through an entire month) and could lead you to continue unhealthy drinking habits for the rest of the year.
Instead, it can be better practice to reduce your intake and work on creating better habits that will actually stick.
Why 'low' instead of 'no' is a game-changer
If you've been disappointed with 0% wines before, the 'low' (5% or above) category is worth considering. It tastes better because it's naturally lower in alcohol, rather than being stripped of its alcohol content and then made to mimic traditional wine with additives.
Naked Wines has a carefully curated low alcohol range that retain flavour and reduce calorie counts. These wines are made by independent makers funded directly by Naked Wines, thanks to its Angels scheme. You can read more about the scheme here.
Session Low Alcohol Sparkling
Clocking in at 5% alcohol, this is a light, floral and fizzy wine by Naked Wine staff-turned-winemaker Tom Benn. One for all-occasions without the after-effects.
Session also do a low alcohol Fruity Red and Fruity White, if you're interested in adding two other 5% versatile picks to your collection.
The Butterfly Effect Rosé 2024
Made by Sam Plunkett using reverse osmosis tech, this is a pale pink rosé that has notes of fresh raspberry, cranberry and florals, while only being 8.5%.
Sacchetto Col de L'Utia Senza De-Alcoholised Sparkling
The highest rated low alcohol option on Naked Wines, this was made by Paolo Sacchetto using the same grapes from his best-selling Prosecco. Think juicy grape, citrus zest and creamy bubbles.
What are the benefits of drinking less alcohol?
According to the NHS, there are many short and long-term benefits to reducing your alcohol consumption:
Short-term benefits
- Greater energy in the morning
- Better-looking skin
- A healthier bank account!
Long-term benefits
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower risk of stroke, cancer and liver disease
- Better mood and quality of sleep
- Easier weight management
Again, you don't necessarily need to cut alcohol out of your life entirely to see genuine health benefits.
