For Bitter For Worse's Smoky no.56 is a potent spirit alternative that's said to "remind you of the friend who tells you like it is—and then gives you the biggest, most accepting hug." With notes of smoke, citrus and a hint of maple, this sipper is well-suited to being served with still or sparkling water or used to make a Bloody Mary or Mai Tai.
The brand sets itself apart with a proprietary "reverse bootlegging" process that incorporates raw certified organic botanicals rather than off-the-shelf extracts or lab-derived natural flavors.
At the Bartenders Spirits Awards—which is exclusively judged by bartenders—For Bitter For Worse's Smoky no.56 won a silver medal in the non-alcoholic spirits category. In all, the Portland-based startup took home five metals at the event, including Producer of the Year.
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Spirit Alternatives
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop flavor profiles and production processes for non-alcoholic alternatives that closely mimic the taste and experience of traditional spirits.
- Reverse Bootlegging
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the use of raw certified organic botanicals in the creation of spirits and other beverage products, rather than relying on off-the-shelf extracts or lab-derived natural flavors.
- Bartenders Spirits Awards
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Establish unique competitions and awards specifically for the evaluation and recognition of non-alcoholic spirits and related products, to help drive innovation in the industry.
Sectors Adopting This
- Beverage
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introduce new non-alcoholic beverage options with complex flavor profiles and premium branding to cater to the evolving consumer preferences for healthier alternatives.
- Hospitality
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop innovative non-alcoholic cocktail menus and experiences to meet the increasing demand from consumers who want to enjoy social gatherings without consuming alcohol.
- Startups
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Support the growth of innovative startups focused on creating high-quality non-alcoholic spirits and beverages by providing funding, mentorship, and resources.
