You love the ritual, the clink of glasses, the slow sip, the easy laughter. But the alcohol? Not so much these days.
Maybe it’s the sluggish mornings after a night out. Maybe you’re chasing better sleep, sharper focus, or just want to feel more in control. Whatever your reason, you’ve probably had the thought: there has to be a better way to celebrate.
You’re not alone.
All over the world (and right here in South Africa), people are shifting the way they think about alcohol. It’s not about being anti-drinking. It’s about having a choice. A choice that feels more aligned, more intentional, and more you.
At Vermont VerGin SA, we’re here to celebrate that shift because you shouldn’t have to choose between feeling good and joining in.
Let’s take a look at what’s really behind this cultural change.
The Shift Is Happening. And It’s Not Just You
For decades, alcohol has been a non-negotiable part of social life. Birthdays, braais, weddings, Friday nights, if you weren’t drinking, you were either pregnant, driving, or “being boring.”
But that unspoken rule? It's losing its grip.
These days, the question isn’t “Why aren’t you drinking?”... it’s “Why should I, if I don’t want to?”
So what’s driving this change?
1. Wellness Is Mainstream Now
People are becoming increasingly serious about their physical, mental, and emotional health. And alcohol just doesn’t fit into that picture for everyone. From anxiety spikes and disrupted sleep to lower energy and focus, the side effects feel harder to justify.
2. Social Media Changed the Script
Life is more visible now. So are the choices we make. The hungover Monday? It’s no longer a badge of honour; it’s a missed workout, a groggy meeting, or a weekend that slipped away.
3. Inclusion Is Becoming the Norm
Being the only non-drinker in the room used to feel awkward. Now, people are actively trying to make social spaces more inclusive, whether you’re sober, training, taking a break, or just not in the mood.
4. Gen Z and Young Millennials Are Leading the Way
They’re drinking less. Not because they’re boring, but because they’re intentional. They’re choosing presence over pressure. And they’re showing everyone that connection doesn’t require alcohol.
The South African Context
Here at home, our relationship with alcohol is complicated. We love to gather, celebrate, and enjoy ourselves; it’s part of who we are. But we also can’t ignore the serious impact alcohol has had on our health, our communities, and our safety.
That awareness is growing. And with it, the desire for better options.
1. We’re a Social Nation With or Without a Drink
From Joburg to Cape Town, being social is part of our DNA. But that doesn’t mean we need to drink to connect. Alcohol-free spirits let you stay in the moment, without crossing your boundaries.
2. We’re Health-Conscious and Proud
We hike. We gym. We meal prep. We hustle. South Africans are taking wellness seriously, and that includes how we drink. Choosing non-alcoholic isn’t missing out. It’s showing up fully.
3. We Deserve Better Options
For too long, “not drinking” meant getting stuck with a Coke or fruit juice. But things are changing. South Africans want local, premium options that match our taste and our values.
The Bottom Line
The world is waking up to mindful drinking, and South Africa is right there with it. Whether you're cutting back, cutting out, or just curious, you’re not alone. You’re part of a movement that’s about more flavour, more choice, more intention.
And at Vermont VerGin SA, we’re here to raise a glass with you, to all the moments that matter, alcohol or not.
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