NON: THE FUTURE OF DRINKS
JULY 06, 2023
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic wine alternative that is complex, sophisticated, and delicious, you might want to check out NON. This Australian brand is redefining the wine occasion using natural ingredients, multidisciplinary techniques, and minimalist design.
NON was founded by Aaron Trotman, a serial entrepreneur and foodie on a mission to create the future of drinks. He wanted to create a drink that could match any food, mood, or occasion. Aaron assembled a team of experts from different fields, such as chefs, bartenders, food scientists, and winemakers, to craft a range of non-alcoholic drinks that are inspired by wine but not limited by it.
Aaron was inspired to launch NON after a trip he took with his wife. They enjoyed fine-dining restaurants all over Europe and had never experienced food pairings quite like it before, especially with non-alcoholic beverages. Once they returned home to Melbourne, Aaron continued to look for these non-alcoholic pairings and eventually realised Australia wasn’t offering anything of the calibre yet and he wanted to do something to bring it to life.
At NON, they aim to cook the flavour in, instead of stripping it out – creating an entirely new drinking experience. NON is not trying to mock, mimic or replicate anything that already exists. Focusing less on what was taken away (the alcohol content) and more on the level of curation and flavour opportunity this allows. Nobody in the world is cooking natural produce and turning them into unique drinks like NON is.
The entire concept of non-alcoholic drinking is relatively new, and there’s always excitement attached to the unknown. Every product in the range has complexities attached in some way. Aaron’s greatest challenge point has been managing the use of produce that’s not in season, due to the importance of using ingredients that are fresh in order to create the best flavour.
The NON range uses high-quality ingredients sourced from local and international producers, such as salted raspberries, caramelised pears, toasted cinnamon, lemon marmalade, and hibiscus. These ingredients are then processed using methods such as fermentation, distillation, extraction, infusion, carbonation, and blending to create unique and balanced flavours.
Sticking to their ethics and principles of not using artificial flavours or extracts from flavour houses. From the first batches made in 20L pots to the 20,000L batches made today, NON is still made the exact same way. At NON, we like to consider ourselves a sustainable brand. We take great pride in sourcing ethical ingredients for all of our drinks, and all products are made with 100% green energy before being shipped carbon-neutrally. Any of our leftover matter goes to Melbourne City Council's green waste program. We are also proud to use 75% less water wastage than traditional beverage manufacturing.
At NON, they like to consider themselves a sustainable brand. Taking great pride in sourcing ethical ingredients for all their drinks. NON drinks are packaged in sleek and elegant bottles that feature bold typography. The design reflects the brand’s ethos of simplicity and quality. All products are made with 100% green energy, before being shipped carbon-neutrally. Any leftover matter goes to Melbourne City Council's green waste program. We are also proud to use 75% less water wastage than traditional beverage manufacturing.
NON is more than just a drink. It’s a lifestyle choice that celebrates the natural world and challenges the conventions of the beverage industry. It’s a drink for everyone who wants to enjoy the taste and experience of wine without the alcohol. There are big things on the horizon for NON, but Aaron’s lips are sealed… for now! You’re going to have to wait and see what’s coming next from Aaron and the team at NON.
(Pictured: NON Non-Alcohol)
By Jessica Hetherington
First seen in the Seasonal Magazine: Winter 2023
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