In a groundbreaking move for Portugal’s beverage scene, The Other Bottle has become the country’s first brick-and-mortar store dedicated exclusively to alcohol-free beverages. Located in Lisbon’s trendy Príncipe Real neighborhood, this unique shop brings a new offering to the Portuguese market: wines, beers, and sparkling drinks — all completely alcohol-free.
From Online to a Physical Store
The store’s journey began online in 2021, launched by two Brazilian friends, Fran Zolin and Nadja Baldaconi, who wanted to maintain a social lifestyle without the need for alcohol. While their idea resonated with a niche audience, the business struggled to take off. Enter Jeremias Loock, a 42-year-old German entrepreneur who, after leaving his career in television production, embraced the world of non-alcoholic beverages. Loock had been operating as a distributor in Europe and decided to purchase The Other Bottle and give it a permanent location.
Loock’s Personal Journey with Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Six years ago, Loock transitioned away from the demanding television industry in search of a healthier lifestyle. During this time, he became involved with a non-alcoholic wine project called Kolonne Null. Initially skeptical of alcohol-free wine, Loock soon found himself immersed in the industry, distributing the products across European markets. Despite a brief stint in Brazil, where the market for alcohol-free wines failed to thrive, Loock moved to Portugal with his partner and saw an opportunity.
“Wine without alcohol was absurd to me at first, but now it’s my passion,” Loock said, highlighting his complete shift in mindset.
The Other Bottle’s Opening in Lisbon
Loock took over the first floor of Well Well, a restaurant in Praça das Flores, transforming it into The Other Bottle’s physical store. With a modest space of just over 20 square meters, the store now offers a carefully curated selection of around 80 alcohol-free beverages, from beers to sparkling wines. The small yet diverse collection is designed to cater to those seeking high-quality alcohol-free options, particularly from the restaurant and hospitality industry.
Loock noted that many of his clients are well-known restaurants and bars across Lisbon and Porto, including Alma, Fifty Seconds, and Euskalduna Studio. The demand for non-alcoholic alternatives is growing, even in high-end establishments, where discerning customers are increasingly seeking healthier options.
Changing Perceptions
One of Loock’s goals with The Other Bottle is to challenge the perception that non-alcoholic drinks are only for pregnant women or people with alcohol dependency. “People are becoming more health-conscious, and avoiding alcohol is a big part of that,” Loock explains. He aims to showcase that alcohol-free beverages can be sophisticated, high-quality, and enjoyable in any social context.
To facilitate customer choices, the store offers regular tastings, allowing visitors to sample various products before making a purchase. Additionally, if customers prefer to enjoy their alcohol-free selection alongside a meal, they can take their bottles downstairs to Well Well, paying only a corkage fee.
Premium Alcohol-Free Options
The prices at The Other Bottle range from €4.50 for a Spanish non-alcoholic wine to €80 for a premium Pinot Noir. While Portugal’s alcohol-free wine scene is still in its infancy, The Other Bottle offers local options like the O%riginal by José Maria da Fonseca, priced at around €8. Loock emphasizes that he only stocks the highest-quality products available in the alcohol-free market, ensuring that his customers experience the best.
The Future of Alcohol-Free in Portugal
As more people become conscious of their health and lifestyle choices, the demand for alcohol-free beverages is expected to grow. The Other Bottle is at the forefront of this movement in Portugal, offering a wide array of alternatives that cater to this emerging trend. With its innovative approach, The Other Bottle not only caters to those who abstain from alcohol but also invites everyone to explore a world of flavor without the buzz.
For those visiting Lisbon, a trip to The Other Bottle promises to be an intriguing and educational experience, where customers can explore the best alcohol-free beverages Europe has to offer. Whether you’re a curious drinker or a dedicated teetotaler, The Other Bottle offers something unique in the heart of Portugal’s capital.
