NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS
This production process is more complex than with alcohol, contact us — we might be able to help you.
The success of non-alcoholic drinks is unstoppable.
WHY 0%?
HEALTH AND ACCESSIBILITY
- Healthier Lifestyle: Alcohol-free options align with the trend of mindful consumption, contributing to better physical and mental health.
- Widely Accessible: Suitable for everyone, regardless of age or health status, making them perfect for parties and events.
- Why Alcohol-Free?: Festive drinks for everyone, at any time, without the reliance on alcohol.
TASTE AND EXPERIENCE
- Culinary Refinement: A wide range of flavor profiles offers a refined culinary experience, embraced by chefs and sommeliers.
- Experience: Enjoy the process of making and drinking festive, alcohol-free cocktails, providing the same enjoyment without the alcohol.
- A Different Way to Celebrate: Celebrate life without the effects of alcohol by treating yourself to something special.
INNOVATION AND EXPERTISE
- Expertise: Deep knowledge in creating beverages and flavors, focusing on the best aromas rather than alcohol.
- Not for Traditional Alcohol Consumption Experiences: Aimed at offering flavorful options without the social effects of alcohol.
- Methodology: Innovative production processes, such as infusions and vacuum - and steam distillation, to create high-quality alcohol-free beverages.
THOMAS CUYVERS, master distiller at Sterkstokers, shares his experience with 0%:
"From the beginning, I’ve drawn on my experience to find a technique to create drinks that could replace alcoholic beverages like rum, whisky, vodka, and gin — so that no difference would be noticed. Naturally, there was no substitute for the typical 40% alcohol. My breakthrough came when I started thinking from the consumer’s perspective. There is a large group of people who don’t drink alcohol and aren’t looking for a replacement. They still want to celebrate life and share something special with others. I create my drinks for them, so they too can experience a special moment when there’s something to celebrate."
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS for 0% versus Alcoholic Drinks:
Alcohol-free beverages fall under different legislation compared to alcoholic products. The VAT rate (6%), excise duty (almost zero), labeling requirements (list of ingredients, nutritional score), HACCP regulations, and hygiene standards are important considerations.
Shelf life is a major concern. With pasteurization, we currently achieve up to 24 months unopened. Once opened, these drinks have a limited shelf life.
Process Description Sterkstokers – Alcohol-Free Drinks: How We Make Them
At Sterkstokers, we believe in purity and craftsmanship. Our drinks are made exclusively from carefully selected, natural ingredients—without added sugars or artificial flavorings. With our own supply of over 250 botanicals and herbs, and years of experience in crafting artisanal beverages, we select the finest raw materials to create a rich and refined taste experience. With this technique, we do not need to remove alcohol from the drink—we simply do not use alcohol.
- Steam Distillation Extraction of essential oils from botanicals using controlled heat. This method, originating from the world of perfumery, allows us to release deep, complex aromas and transform bitter compounds into floral notes.
- Vacuum Distillation By lowering the pressure, we reduce the boiling point of our ingredients, preserving delicate aromas. This enables us to extract fragile flavors without thermal degradation.
- Infusion To fully capture the essence of fruits and botanicals, we apply a cold maceration technique. Inspired by the Japanese tea ceremony, this method ensures that flavor components are naturally and harmoniously transferred to the liquid.
- Fermentation Some plant components can disrupt the flavor balance. Through controlled fermentation—where, after a heating process, we use a carefully maintained culture of bacteria and yeast from previous productions—unwanted structures are broken down, refining the overall taste.
- Filtration In the final step, we determine the desired clarity and texture of the finished product. Depending on the recipe, we choose whether the drink will be filtered to a clear essence or retain a cloudy, artisanal appearance.