Despite all the memes about pandemic-induced drinking -- who can forget quarantinis? -- American alcohol consumption is on the decline. Gallup reported last year that 60% of U.S. adults report drinking alcoholic beverages, down from 65% in 2019 and 67% in 2010, the highest in two decades. And those who drink, drink less: The average number of weekly drinks is the lowest recorded since 2001. In the meantime, there has been a surge in menus at hotels, cruise lines and theme parks that feature zero-proof cocktails, elevated versions of the nonalcoholic mocktails of the past. News editor Johanna Jainchill caught up with Stephanie Dold, beverage director of concept development for Walt Disney World Resort, to discuss why this trend has taken off and how it's been implemented at the Happiest Place on Earth.
Stephanie Dold
Q: When did Disney begin offering zero-proof cocktail menus?
A: For many years, Walt Disney World Resort has offered nonalcoholic beverages for guests of all ages to enjoy, including soda floats, flavored lemonades and an array of juices. Within the past five years, there has been a shift within the beverage industry to offer more creative and nuanced drinks that could be enjoyed in an elevated setting that were free of alcohol.
The practice of identifying zero-proof cocktails or cocktails without alcohol on menus became more prevalent with the openings of locations such as Dahlia Lounge (in the Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort) and Topolino's Terrace (in Disney's Riviera Resort). And today, guests can even enjoy a beautifully crafted zero-proof cocktail aboard the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International
Zero-proof cocktails crafted with the same care and techniques as alcoholic beverages are increasingly slaking nondrinkers’ thirst at hotels and theme parks and on cruise ships.
Q: What drove Disney to decide to do that? Is this part of an overall trend toward offering healthier options?
A: The zero-proof cocktail moment often aligns many of today's wellness concepts, including mindful drinking. Our teams are passionate about providing memorable beverage experiences for our guests at every turn. Those abstaining from alcohol or exploring a sober-curious lifestyle shouldn't have to be resigned to only drinking soft drinks or water while celebrating moments with their friends and loved ones.
It's wonderful to be able to offer well-crafted, and often photogenic, alcohol-free cocktails at our bars, restaurants and lounges. We are also inspired by the notion that zero-proof cocktails do not have to be used solely as a replacement for drinking a cocktail. Many of our guests enjoy these zero-proof cocktails throughout their imbibing experiences.
Q: Was Disney experiencing higher demand for nonalcoholic beverage options?
A: We believe that our guests hold us to the highest standard of guest excellence. While we have always offered an array of nonalcoholic beverages, at times the perception has been that these items resonated with a younger demographic. Within the last five years, our guests have shared that they were excited to see more offerings that catered to the adult palate, and in settings in which cocktails are typically consumed. Guests have remarked how refreshing it has been to sit at the bar at restaurants like Topolino's Terrace or Citricos and enjoy a zero-proof cocktail.
Q: How does being a family product increase this demand?
A: The ability to offer zero-proof cocktails within our portfolio at Walt Disney World Resort has allowed us to broaden our reach to guests of all walks of life and experiences. It allows us to put the same creativity and care into zero-proof cocktails as we would the versions containing spirits.
Q: What has the zero-proof cocktail uptake been like since Disney launched them?
A: Zero-proof cocktails have been incredibly well-received by our guests. We've heard so many stories of gratitude from guests who cannot -- or choose not -- to consume alcohol. They've remarked on being able to visit an event like Epcot International Food & Wine Festival or sit at the bar at the Dahlia Lounge and feel welcomed and dignified by the zero-proof cocktail selections provided to them.