The Hidden Effects of Wine on Women’s Health—And the Best Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

The Hidden Effects of Wine on Women’s Health—And the Best Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

For many women, wine is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a way to unwind, or a social staple. But what if that evening glass of wine is having effects you hadn’t considered?

Preparing for my last pregnancy I had gone totally booze-free months before hand, and I noticed how avoiding alcohol completely changed my anxiety levels. I realized just how much that occasional glass of wine had been affecting me. Unlike my previous pregnancies where I cut out alcohol once I became pregnant, I know the dry period ahead of time allowed me to detox and effectively manage my anxiety prior to conceiving.

Many midlife and menopausal women are becoming aware of how alcohol impacts their sleep, hormones, and overall well-being, leading them to explore non-alcoholic alternatives. During a period of our lives where our bodies are already in a near constant state of stress alcohol only serves to exacerbate our symptoms and hinder our coping mechanisms.

The Hidden Health Impact

Alcohol affects women differently than men, especially when it comes to hormone balance, metabolism, and sleep quality. Even moderate alcohol consumption can contribute to increased cortisol levels (the stress hormone), disrupted sleep cycles, and blood sugar instability. Many women report waking up at 2 or 3 a.m. after drinking wine—often due to the body’s rebound effect after alcohol metabolization.

Beyond sleep, alcohol can impact digestion, skin health, and even exacerbate anxiety. With more awareness around these effects, many women are looking for satisfying alternatives that allow them to keep their wine ritual without the unwanted side effects.

Alcohol and food are so closely tied together in our food culture that it’s hard to enjoy one without the other – but the culture is shifting and more options are on the table than ever before.

Top 10 Non-Alcoholic Wine Alternatives

Whether you’re cutting back for health reasons or simply exploring new options, here are some of the best non-alcoholic wine alternatives available:

1. Proxies by Acid League – Unlike traditional non-alcoholic wines that are de-alcoholized, Proxies are created from a complex blend of fruits, teas, spices, and vinegars to mimic the flavor and structure of wine without ever containing alcohol. They offer a layered, sommelier-approved experience.
2. Leitz Eins Zwei Zero Riesling – A German non-alcoholic Riesling with bright acidity and citrus notes, making it a great alternative for white wine lovers.
3. Pierre Chavin Zero Rosé – A light and fruity alcohol-free rosé from France, offering a refreshing option for summer sipping.
4. Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay – A dry, non-alcoholic sparkling wine that feels celebratory while still being sugar-conscious.
5. FRE Red Blend – A full-bodied, de-alcoholized red wine that retains depth and character.
6. Sovi Reserve Red – A rich, barrel-aged alcohol-free red wine that pairs well with hearty meals.
7. Luminara Non-Alcoholic Napa Red Blend – A California wine that maintains deep, velvety textures without the alcohol.
8. Sinzero Sauvignon Blanc – A crisp and zesty non-alcoholic white wine that’s perfect for pairing with seafood or salads.
9. St. Regis Brut – A well-balanced non-alcoholic sparkling wine that makes an excellent substitute for champagne.
10. ONES Sparkling White (Okanagan, Canada) – A refreshing, non-alcoholic sparkling white wine with bright acidity and delicate fruit notes. It pairs beautifully with chicken or pork, making it a versatile option for meals.

How Proxies Are Different from Non-Alcoholic Wines

One of the key differences between Proxies and traditional non-alcoholic wines is the production method. Most non-alcoholic wines start as regular wine and go through a de-alcoholization process, which can sometimes strip away depth and complexity. Proxies, on the other hand, are crafted from the ground up using a combination of ingredients that replicate the mouthfeel, acidity, and tannins of wine—without ever containing alcohol in the first place. This results in a beverage that is often more balanced and intentional than some de-alcoholized wines, which can sometimes taste flat or overly sweet.

The Cost Factor

When exploring non-alcoholic wines, many people are surprised at the price. High-quality alcohol-free wines often cost as much—or more—than regular wine. This is because of the labor-intensive processes required to either remove alcohol while preserving flavor or to blend complex ingredients like in Proxies. However, for many, the health benefits and ability to enjoy a glass without negative effects make the cost worthwhile.

Where to Buy

Proxies and other non-alcoholic wines are becoming more widely available. You can purchase Proxies online directly from Acid League, and if you’re in Edmonton, you can find them locally at Sherbrooke Liquor. Many other non-alcoholic wine brands are available at specialty liquor stores and select grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cutting back on alcohol completely or just looking for an alternative for certain nights, the non-alcoholic wine market has more options than ever. From complex, craft-made Proxies to high-quality de-alcoholized wines, there’s something for every palate. Choosing a non-alcoholic option doesn’t mean giving up the experience of wine—it just means rethinking what’s in your glass.