Laura Silverman has spent years tracking the growth of the non-alc movement. As the founder of Zero Proof Nation, a donor-supported website, she’s focused on connecting sober and sober curious consumers with non-alc-friendly establishments worldwide.
Now, she’s taking her expertise from the digital world to the physical one: Cherry Coffee Blast, a product collaboration with All The Bitter. In this interview, Laura shares insights into the inspiration behind this release, the role of bitters in the non-alc space, and where she sees the future of alcohol alternatives heading.
Dry Atlas: You recently launched a “Cherry Coffee Blast” bitters with All The Bitter. Tell us more about that collaboration.
Laura Silverman: This collaboration was personal and intentional. I’ve been obsessed with All The Bitter for years, and if I was going to collaborate with any brand, it had to be one that plays well with others in the space. Bitters are so versatile! They can be added to non-alc beer and wine, soda, tonic, and even coffee. I use them daily.
The idea started in early 2024, when [co-founder Ian Blessing and I] were discussing challenges that independent bottle shop owners face. Many small retailers have championed the non-alc movement but struggle to compete with big-box stores and Amazon. We wanted to create something exclusive to independent shops as a way to give back to that community.
DA: Why did you choose to collaborate on a bitters product instead of, say, a mixer?
LS: Bitters are like seasonings for drinks. They enhance flavor, add depth, and round out a beverage’s profile. In the non-alc space, where alcohol isn’t present to carry flavor and provide mouthfeel, bitters play a crucial role. They help elevate the experience, making a drink feel more layered and satisfying.
Also, this collaboration was about more than just the product. I adore Ian and Carly, the co-founders of All The Bitter. Their story, their mission, and the quality of what they create made it an easy decision. It wasn’t just about making something big. It was about supporting each other and the community.
DA: How did you decide on the Cherry Coffee Blast flavor?
LS: I’ve wanted coffee bitters for the longest time. We went through several iterations before landing on this one. At one point, we experimented with a root beer flavor, but the design felt too brown and didn’t pop visually. We also tried a grapefruit version that was playful but didn’t quite hit the mark.
Cherry added a brightness that made the coffee notes shine. I was initially hesitant because I don’t like artificial cherry flavors, but this one turned out beautifully! It was rich, complex, and with just the right amount of fruitiness. Plus, it’s decaf, so people can use it in espresso tonics or coffee-based drinks at night without worrying about caffeine.
DA: The product label features a link to your Zero Proof Nation Global Map. For those unfamiliar with Zero Proof Nation, can you explain what it is and how your map came to be?
LS: Zero Proof Nation started in 2019 as a simple website and Instagram account highlighting non-alc beverages and the people behind them. At that time, there were very few non-alc brands—and no dedicated bottle shops until Spirited Away launched the following year. It began as a small beverage directory, but as the industry grew, so did the need for a more structured resource.
I created the global map to help people find non-alc-friendly retailers, bars, and bottle shops in their area. It has since evolved into one of the most comprehensive resources of its kind, with nearly 200,000 views and counting. My goal was always to make it easier for consumers to discover quality non-alc options, and I’m thrilled to see it making an impact.
DA: How can consumers best support independent non-alcoholic retailers?
LS: The simplest way? Shop with them. Independent bottle shops are the heart of the non-alc movement. They’re hosting tastings, educating consumers, and building community, which are all things big-box retailers don’t do. If we want them to thrive, we have to prioritize spending our dollars there instead of just turning to Amazon for convenience.
That’s one reason why we made Cherry Coffee Blast an indie-only product. It’s a way of carving out space for small businesses in this industry. Just like local restaurants and boutiques exist alongside chain stores, we need independent non-alc retailers to have a foothold too.
DA: Where do you see the alcohol alternatives category heading in the next five years?
LS: For me, a few big trends stand out:
- The rise of THC beverages: These are gaining serious traction as an alcohol alternative, though regulations vary by state.
- A shift toward hybrid hospitality: More bars and restaurants will offer non-alc options alongside alcoholic ones, but not as an afterthought. Instead of a weak “mocktail” menu, we’ll see equal attention given to non-alc beverages.
- A move toward “alcohol-optional” menus: Some venues may even flip the script, and drinks will be designed as complete without alcohol, with the option to add spirits. This reverses the traditional approach where alcohol is the default.
- Expansion beyond bars and grocery stores: Expect to see non-alc options integrated into more spaces, like airports, cruise lines, and mainstream entertainment venues. I’m even co-hosting a booze-free cruise to Bermuda this July!
- A growing focus on regional non-alc beverages: Just like we have non-alc amaro, I think we’ll see more culturally significant drinks adapted into non-alc formats.
DA: Do you have any final thoughts for our readers?
LS: I just want to encourage people to keep exploring and supporting the non-alc space. There’s so much creativity happening right now, and it’s exciting to watch. Whether you’re fully sober or just curious, there’s never been a better time to find something you love.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
