January is when many of us try to cut back on alcohol after holiday indulgences. It is the month when calendars are clean, intentions are pure, and the recycling bin is still judging us quietly from the curb. So today we’re building the ultimate Dry January Survival Kit, with low- and no-alcohol options.
Who better to help us than our favourite drinks expert Natalie MacLean, editor of Canada’s largest drinks review site at nataliemaclean.com.
Welcome, Natalie.
Great to be back with you! As we put together a collection of foolproof low-proof drinks, we’re going to play a little game. You’re going to tell me about an emergency situation, and I’ll recommend a drink you should have on hand and why. We’re assembling the drink versions of the Avengers, but instead of saving the world, they’ll make you the superhero of hosting.
Alright, Scenario One: It’s Sunday morning. You’re doing meal prep, heading to the gym later. You need energy but you don’t want the sugary, jittery stuff. What’s in our Survival Kit for that?
This is your Sunday Morning Reset. It’s for those mornings when your brain feels like a browser with forty-seven tabs open but you can’t find which one is playing the music. Feel to try the Botany Energy Blue Crush from Collective Arts in Hamilton, Ontario. It’s the perfect kick-off for Dry January when many of us are resetting our routines. Think of it as a gentle nudge from an emotionally supportive blueberry.
*** Botany Energy Blue Crush is available from collectiveartscreativity.com and upsidedrinks.ca. Use the promocode BREAKFAST10 for 10% off your first order shipped right to your door.
You can also get this in 7-Eleven stores across the country.
Collective Arts Botany Energy Blue Crush
Hamilton, Ontario
The Botany Energy Blue Crush, an alcohol-free drink with a gorgeous blueberry lemonade flavour that’s low in sugar and uses 120 milligrams of natural green tea caffeine to give you a gentle wave of energy without the jitters. It’s like motivation decided to become a beverage.
It’s also packed with adaptogens, like ginseng that help manage stress, plus vitamins B-12 and B-6, and L-theanine. It’s basically a tiny life coach in a can, but one that doesn’t ask about your childhood.
What I also love about Collective Arts is that every can features original artwork from emerging artists. So you’re sipping something beautiful inside and out.
You can get Botany Energy Blue Crush from the Collective Arts website at collectiveartscreativity.com or in 7-Eleven stores across the country.
Survival Kit Tip: This is your fridge essential for busy mornings. This is available at 7-Eleven, so you can grab it on the go. Stock a few at home for weekend productivity sessions. Keep them chilled and ready. Future you will send present you a thank-you note. Possibly a fruit basket.
More Pairings
- Morning power bowl with creamy acai blended thick, topped with fresh blueberries, sliced banana, crunchy granola clusters, a drizzle of almond butter, and a sprinkle of chia seeds
- Lemon blueberry protein pancakes stacked high and fluffy, studded with plump berries that burst with each bite, drizzled with pure maple syrup and a pat of melting butter
- Greek yogurt parfait layered in a tall glass with creamy vanilla yogurt, vibrant blueberry compote, and house-made granola with honey and toasted oats
- Avocado toast on sourdough with perfectly ripe avocado mashed with lemon and sea salt, topped with everything bagel seasoning and microgreens that add peppery freshness
- Energy bites rolled in coconut, packed with oats, almond butter, dark chocolate chips, and honey, offering chewy, satisfying sweetness in every bite-sized ball
Emergency Scenario Two. It’s Tuesday and your wine-loving friends are coming for dinner. You need something sophisticated that will not make them feel like they’re drinking grape juice. What do we stock?
This is your Savvy Sommelier Selection, and I have a brilliant French duo. Feel free to try Francois Lurton Fumees Blanches Zero first. It’s available in SAQ stores and online.
Francois Lurton Fumées Blanches Zero
France
This is a 100% Sauvignon Blanc with just 0% alcohol. You get lifted aromas of lime and passionfruit. The name Fumees Blanches means white smoke in French, inspired by the morning mist that blankets the vineyards, which makes me think of standing on a hilltop wearing cashmere and staring longingly out at the vineyard rows.
It has a touch of sweetness that balances beautifully with that citrus zing. The key here is that it comes from a highly respected French winemaker, so your guest will recognize the quality pedigree.
These are available in liquor stores across the country and online.
More Pairings
- Warm chevre salad with crumbled goat cheese melting slightly over peppery arugula, candied walnuts adding caramelized crunch, and a honey-lemon vinaigrette drizzled overtop
- Herb-crusted sea bass with a golden panko crust fragrant with fresh dill and parsley, the flaky white flesh steaming when you break through the crispy exterior
- Tropical fruit tartlet with a buttery shortbread shell cradling passion fruit curd, topped with slices of fresh mango and kiwi that glisten like jewels
- Grilled asparagus spears with char marks striping their tender green stalks, finished with a shower of shaved parmesan, a drizzle of grassy olive oil, and flaky Maldon salt
- Citrus-cured salmon gravlax with silky, coral-pink slices draped over pumpernickel rounds, dabbed with creme fraiche and topped with briny capers and fresh dill fronds
Now here is my secret weapon for entertaining wine lovers. Stock the same label in both versions. This is hostess-level chess, not checkers. We’re not fooling around!
Feel free to try Francois Lurton Fumees Blanches with just 11.5% alcohol, which is low considering many red wines from warm climates now clock in at 14% or higher.
Francois Lurton Fumées Blanches
France
Same winemaker, same philosophy, similar aromas of citrus and tropical fruit. The palate is crisp and flavourful with lingering citrus zest and a gorgeous minerality.
Survival Kit Tip: Stock both versions side by side. When guests arrive, you can say, “Would you like the zero or the original?” This is far more elegant than asking, “Are you off booze this month?”
The regular version keeps for three to five days in the fridge after opening with a good stopper. The zero version lasts even longer because there is no alcohol to oxidize in the traditional way.
More Pairings
- Goat cheese crostini with warm, crusty baguette slices topped with tangy chevre, a ribbon of wildflower honey, and cracked black pepper that tingles on the tongue
- Moules marinieres with plump, briny mussels steamed open in white wine, garlic, and fresh herbs, their shells releasing fragrant wisps of steam, served with crusty bread for soaking up the savoury broth
- Lemon-herb roasted chicken with crackling golden skin, the meat so tender it falls from the bone, perfumed with thyme, rosemary, and wedges of caramelized lemon
- Oysters on the half shell glistening with ocean brine, nestled on crushed ice with mignonette sauce, their cold, silky texture sliding across the palate
- Sole meuniere with delicate fillets pan-fried in golden brown butter, finished with a squeeze of lemon and a scattering of fresh parsley, the nutty butter pooling on the warm plate
Scenario Three: It’s Wednesday evening. You want a cocktail, but you have an early meeting tomorrow. What goes in the Survival Kit?
This is your Midweek Mirth Maker. Feel free to try Collective Arts Perpetual Paloma.
Collective Arts Perpetual Paloma
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
The Perpetual Paloma is a blissed-out citrus bomb from Collective Arts. It’s a zero-proof cocktail that delivers a deliciously combo of grapefruit and lime followed by a light, sophisticated bitterness that makes you forget there’s no tequila involved. It’s like the drink equivalent of that friend who’s genuinely fun without needing the karaoke machine.
*** This is available from collectiveartscreativity.com and upsidedrinks.ca. Use the promocode BREAKFAST10 for 10% off your first order.
You can also get this in 7-Eleven stores across the country.
It is gluten-free, vegan, no preservatives, and low in sugar. It is gluten-free, vegan, no preservatives, and low in sugar. It probably also volunteers at the children’s hospital on weekends and returns library books early.
Stock at least a four-pack because these are perfect for any weeknight. Store them in the fridge door so they are always chilled and ready. Shelf life is excellent since they are sealed, so buy in bulk without worrying. Wednesday nights are not the time for decision fatigue.
Bonus tip: If you have friends over and someone wants wine, but you have the Paloma, serve it in a wine glass with a grapefruit wheel. Eighty percent of hosting is just confidence and citrus.
More Pairings
- Baja-style fish tacos with a golden, crispy beer-battered coating, tucked into warm corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, a drizzle of chipotle crema, and a squeeze of fresh lime that releases its bright, tangy perfume
- Creamy guacamole with chunky avocado, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and a hint of jalapeno heat, served alongside warm, salty tortilla chips still glistening from the fryer
- Chili-lime grilled shrimp sizzling from the grill, their shells slightly charred and caramelized, brushed with a glaze of melted butter, smoked paprika, and zesty lime that creates an irresistible sweet-heat balance
- Ceviche fresco featuring tender chunks of white fish cured in citrus, mingled with red onion, cucumber, and a shower of fresh cilantro, served in a chilled glass with the briny essence of the sea
- Street corn salad with charred kernels cut from the cob, tossed with cotija cheese, a squeeze of lime, a dusting of chili powder, and a swirl of tangy crema that coats each golden kernel
Emergency Number Four: It’s Thursday and your sister texts that she’s dropping by in twenty minutes with the kids. You want something everyone can enjoy. Go!
This is your Rosé All Day, (any day!) and from Canada’s #1 wine brand. Feel free to try Jackson-Triggs Zero Rosé.
*** This is available from winerack.com.
Jackson-Triggs Zero Rosé, Proprietors’ Selection
Canada
This is perfect for unexpected visits from those with tiny little chaos agents and their sticky fingers. This is the bottle that says, ‘Yes, come in,’ without trying to clean up first. It’s pretty, pink, perky and completely alcohol-free at 0% with lovely strawberry and raspberry notes and a crisp finish.
Jackson-Triggs has nailed the zero-proof category. Because it’s zero alcohol, it’s drive-home friendly, proving you can have your rosé and drink it too. The pink is celebratory without asking anything of you emotionally. It quietly upgrades the moment. Less can taste like more.
New research from Jackson-Triggs reveals that nearly two-thirds (65%) of Canadian drinkers are planning to moderate their alcohol consumption in 2026, officially making moderation a movement rather than a moment. Moderation options must deliver uncompromising flavour. In fact, 73 per cent of Canadians who drink alcohol (aged 19+) say taste is most important to them when considering a light or non-alcoholic beverage.
Survival Kit Tip: This is your fridge door staple. Keep one bottle chilled for these drop-in moments. Once opened, finish within a week for best freshness.
More Pairings
- Summer berry pavlova with a cloud-like meringue shell that shatters at the touch of a fork, piled high with billowy whipped cream and a tumble of fresh raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries
- Prosciutto-wrapped melon with paper-thin slices of rosy cured ham embracing cool, sweet cantaloupe crescents, the salt and sugar playing beautifully together
- Strawberry spinach salad with ruby-red berries nestled among tender baby spinach, toasted almonds adding crunch, and a poppy seed dressing that coats each leaf in sweet tanginess
- Smoked salmon blinis with miniature buckwheat pancakes topped with silky cold-smoked salmon, a dollop of creme fraiche, and a sprig of dill releasing its anise-like perfume
- Raspberry lemon tart with sunshine-yellow curd filling a crisp pastry shell, crowned with fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar like fresh snow
What if the adults want just a little something?
Stock the sibling! Feel free to try Jackson-Triggs Light Rosé with just 7.6% alcohol, which is about half the alcohol of big reds from warm climates like Australia.
*** This is available from lcob.com and winerack.com.
Jackson-Triggs Light Rosé
Canada
It’s completely on-trend with the move toward lower-alcohol options. You get delightful aromas and flavours of strawberry and tropical fruit in a fresh, off-dry style. It’s the healthier choice that still feels like a treat – you deserve nice things!
Survival Kit Tip: Having both Jackson-Triggs bottles means you can offer the zero to your sister who is driving the kids home, and the light version for yourself. Same beautiful pink colour, same Canadian winery, two different lanes. That is the gold standard of modern hosting. Both should be stored in the fridge and finished within a few days of opening. It’s like a buddy system, but for bottles. They’re happier together.
More Pairings
- Mediterranean pasta salad with al dente rotini tossed with sun-dried tomatoes, briny kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and fresh basil leaves, dressed in a garlicky lemon vinaigrette
- Thai coconut curry with aromatic spices blooming in creamy coconut milk, tender vegetables swimming alongside fragrant jasmine rice, the gentle heat building slowly on the palate
- Cherry almond clafoutis warm from the oven with plump, juicy cherries suspended in a custard-like batter, the edges golden and slightly caramelized, dusted with powdered sugar
- Bruschetta trio featuring toasted ciabatta topped with three vibrant spreads: ruby tomato-basil, creamy white bean-rosemary, and roasted red pepper hummus
- Grilled peach salad with caramelized peach halves nestled on a bed of butter lettuce, crumbled blue cheese, candied pecans, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction
Final Scenario: It’s Saturday night and you’re hosting a tapas party. You want something festive with bubbles that won’t knock everyone out before dessert. What is that party starter?
This is your Feeling Fine Fiesta! Feel free to try Lolea Red Sangria from Spain, it’s a fiesta in a bottle.
Lolea No. 1 Red Sangria
Spain
It arrives already in a good mood. Lolea is a premium, lightly sparkling sangria at just 7% alcohol. It’s a gorgeous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Tempranillo combined with natural orange and lemon juices, and a touch of spice. You get wonderful aromas of cherry, orange peel, and strawberry. On the palate it is full-bodied and scrumptious with ripe red berries, flowers, and those silky bubbles dancing on your tongue.
This sangria is sparkling, not still. Serve it chilled over ice with a slice of lime and a mint leaf. It’s gorgeous on camera and even better in your glass.
Survival Kit Tip: At only 7% alcohol, guests can enjoy two glasses over the course of an evening without overdoing it. This is your entertaining secret weapon. Keep one bottle in the fridge and one in the pantry as backup. Once opened, drink within a day or two to preserve those gorgeous bubbles.
More Pairings
- Jamon serrano with paper-thin slices of Spanish cured ham, deep ruby in colour, with delicate ribbons of creamy fat that melt on the tongue, releasing nutty, savoury notes
- Patatas bravas with crispy golden potato cubes, their interiors fluffy and steaming, drizzled with spicy tomato sauce and creamy aioli that creates a fiery, cooling contrast
- Manchego and membrillo with aged sheep’s milk cheese offering butterscotch notes, paired with jewel-toned quince paste that adds sweet, floral complexity
- Chorizo al vino with slices of smoky, paprika-spiced sausage sizzling in red wine, releasing aromatic clouds of garlic and herbs as they caramelize in the pan
- Gambas al ajillo featuring plump prawns swimming in a pool of golden olive oil infused with sliced garlic and dried chilies, the oil bubbling and fragrant, served with crusty bread for soaking
It also comes in a white version that also has only 7% alcohol.
Lolea No. 2 White Sangria
Spain
It’s a blend of Muscat and Airen grapes with natural orange and lemon juices, vanilla, and those lovely soft bubbles. It is so elegant and delicious that it is impossible to resist. You get wonderful aromas and flavours of jasmine and apricot. Serve it chilled over ice with a slice of lime and a strawberry for a picture-perfect presentation.
Survival Kit Tip: Stock both colours. Red for depth, white for lift. Red for heartier tapas and the white for seafood or lighter bites. Same shelf-life rules apply. Keep them sealed in the pantry until party day, then chill for at least two hours before serving.
If someone asks for a cocktail and you only have wine, pour the Lolea Sangria over ice with fresh fruit. It looks like you made them a custom drink. Hosting is really just being confident with your garnishes.
More Pairings
- Spanish tortilla with golden wedges of potato-studded egg omelette, served at room temperature, the creamy interior contrasting with slightly crispy edges
- Boquerones en vinagre with delicate white anchovies marinated in sherry vinegar and olive oil, their briny sweetness brightened by parsley and garlic
- Croquetas de jamon with crispy golden shells that shatter to reveal molten, silky bechamel studded with smoky ham, releasing clouds of savoury steam
- Grilled octopus a la gallega with tender tentacles charred on the outside, brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with smoked paprika and coarse sea salt on a bed of sliced potatoes
- Fresh fig and goat cheese crostini with ripe purple figs split open like flowers, creamy chevre, a drizzle of honey, and toasted walnuts on crispy bread
Natalie, these suggestions are fantastic! Any final words of wisdom for our viewers?
Dry-ish January is a movement not just a moment. You can keep it going throughout the year. If you make it through the month without going on a kale-only diet, you’re already winning!
Moderation isn’t about saying no to everything. It’s about saying yes to new things.
These bottles aren’t just drinks. They’re tiny declarations that you can have beautiful, tasty fun evenings and still feel like yourself the next morning.
Now go stock that survival kit. Your future self is already grateful.
Thank you, Natalie! Where can we find you and these wines and drinks online?
On Instagram, I’m at @NatalieMacLeanWine and online, my website is nataliemaclean.com.
Posted with permission of CityTV’s Breakfast Television. Please drink responsibly.
