Episode 77: The science, sensory, and sparkle behind Glimmer Wine with Janet Helou

Janet Helou is the CSO and Wine Scientist at Glimmer Wine, a BC-based, women-owned non-alcoholic sparkling wine brand. With a background spanning science, R&D, sales, food science, and wine, Janet helps lead Glimmer from both sides of the business: developing the product and supporting commercial sales. As a Certified Food Scientist and WSET Level 3, she brings a rare blend of technical expertise, sensory curiosity, and market insight to a category that continues to evolve quickly.Glimmer's origin story started with a familiar but underserved moment: being at a wedding, dinner, conference, or celebration and wanting something special in your glass, without alcohol. Instead of settling for sparkling water with a garnish, three wine-loving women set out to create a non-alcoholic option that could feel just as celebratory and sophisticated as the occasion itself.What makes Glimmer distinct is that it starts with real wine. The alcohol is removed through reverse osmosis, a membrane technology that selectively strips alcohol while helping preserve the aromas, structure, and character that give wine its personality. That distinction, between de-alcoholized wine and a wine-adjacent beverage, matters more than most consumers realize. Alcohol contributes to body, mouthfeel, aroma carry, and the perception of balance. When it is removed, the formulation has to account for all of it. We also chat about Glimmer’s newest release: a sparkling rosé designed for summer sipping, celebration, and inclusion. With expressive, lively notes and the same thoughtful positioning behind the brand’s Blanc de Blanc, the Rosé marks an exciting next step for Glimmer’s growing portfolio.In this episode, we get into:The origin story behind Glimmer WineWhat makes de-alcoholized wine different from wine alternatives, and how reverse osmosis fits inThe sensory balancing act of formulating without alcoholWhy the sparkling format is a smart entry point for this categoryThe realities of scaling a glass-bottled beverage across Canadian distribution channelsFor anyone working in beverage innovation, CPG, sales, or non-alcoholic product development, this conversation is a thoughtful look at what it takes to create a product that feels intentional, elegant, and celebratory.Resources:Glimmer Wine: https://www.drinkglimmerwine.com/Instagram: @drinkglimmerwineTaste Glimmer at the Rose Disco Vancouver, July 26, 2026: https://www.rosedisco.com/vancouver