#121 - Raising The Bar for AF Drinks - with Maria Easley

In this episode, Tabbin speaks to Maria Easley, a passionate advocate for the world of alcohol-free beverages. With over 30 years in hospitality, Maria has pivoted her expertise to meet the growing demand for high-quality non-alcoholic options, and she shares her journey of discovery and innovation in this expanding market.  Maria recounts her initial foray into the alcohol-free realm, driven by a desire to offer her clients superior alternatives to traditional drinks. She highlights the significant advancements in the category, debunking the myth that non-alcoholic options are limited to subpar beverages. Listeners will learn about the various production methods for alcohol-free wines and spirits, including the differences between de-alcoholised and alcohol-free products, and why some can command the same price as their alcoholic counterparts.  Throughout the episode, Maria and Tabbin discuss the importance of flavour complexity and the ritualistic aspect of drinking, emphasising that alcohol-free drinks can provide a satisfying experience without the negative consequences of alcohol. They explore a range of brands that are redefining the non-alcoholic landscape, from innovative cocktails to functional drinks that enhance mood and well-being.  Join Tabbin and Maria as they celebrate the vibrant world of alcohol-free options, encouraging listeners to broaden their horizons and discover the delightful alternatives available to them. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about embracing a healthier relationship with drinking.  Highlights:      (02:00) Maria's journey into the alcohol-free world      (10:15) The evolution of non-alcoholic options and their quality      (18:30) Understanding the difference between de-alcoholised and alcohol-free drinks      (25:00) The importance of flavour complexity in alcohol-free beverages      (32:45) Exploring the ritual of drinking and creating enjoyable alternatives      (40:00) Innovative brands and products in the alcohol-free market      (48:00) The future of social events and alcohol-free options  Connect with Tabbin: https://www.winetowatercoaching.com  If you're interested in exploring the alcohol-free world further, consider reaching out for a free discovery call with Tabbin.  Maria Easley can be found here:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-easley/ https://www.themidnightmuddler.co.uk/   Resources Majestic Wines Club Soda X Partnership - https://www.majestic.co.uk/pages/club-soda-x-majestic-partnership The Sober Diaries by Clare Pooley - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-sober-diaries-the-hilarious-and-brave-memoir-that-is-helping-people-to-quit-drinking-clare-pooley/62d9421107b8e074?ean=9781473661905&bkshp-astro=t Saicho Sparkling Tea - https://www.saichodrinks.com/ Three Spirit Drinks - https://threespiritdrinks.com/ Crodino - https://www.crodino.com/en-gb/ Botivo - https://www.botivodrinks.com/ Mother Root - https://motherroot.com/ Everleaf - https://www.everleafdrinks.com/ Crossip - https://www.crossipdrinks.com/ Bolle Wine - https://www.bolledrinks.co.uk/ Zeno - https://zenowine.com/ Moderato - https://le-moderato.com/en/collections/cuvee-revolutionnaire Noughty - https://noughtyaf.com/ Wednesday's Domaine - https://wednesdaysdomaine.com/collections/alcohol-free?_gl=1*1415yqq*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjw-rTUBhAiEiwADv8gBAcJfCYtGH_c6vClF2KBEpPxDNF5-mH0gGTel3qRmGmqbAznW4oilRoCemoQAvD_BwE&gbraid=0AAAAAoRIeZjvHwnmaQNCd_7S4sgynkdyU