The Ultimate Sober BBQ Guide

Barbecues are a summer rite of passage. The weather breaks, and the sun is shining. Boat shoes and sundresses. Crackling bonfires and coals. Ahhh, can you smell it?!

One thing that traditionally goes hand-in-hand with a good BBQ is alcohol. So what do you do when that's not the option for you? Are you stuck with bland sodas from the community cooler?

Don’t fret! That red and white cooler is not your future. Instead, we’ll help you explore the creative and exciting world of non-alcoholic and alcohol-free choices that are about to rock your world. We’ve got the answers — and the pairings! — for you to live your best AF BBQ life this summer.

 

Fré Sparkling Rosé 4-Pack

When we think of BBQs, it’s easy to fall into the trap of hearty meats and bold flavors. We start picturing pulled pork and ribs dripping with tangy sauces. Often overlooked are lighter choices, like kebobs and grilled seafood that complement the midday as fresher fare.

What better to go with your seafood dishes than a sparkling wine you can ‘Rosé-All-Day’ with?


WellBeing Intentional IPA 4-Pack

Speaking of meats and sauces, a bright IPA is the perfect beer addition to your brisket and rib dishes that have smoked all day. This IPA has pineapple and peach notes, and it offers a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of your choice of meat. The Mosaic and Citra hops add a bitter note ensuring you’re not sipping on an overly sweet brew.


Ritual Whiskey Alternative

An Oaky whiskey can be great for a nightcap and fireside chat. This non-alcoholic whiskey is the perfect pair to your pulled pork sliders with a sweet barbecue sauce. Enjoy this bad boy with friends around the fire or with your towering plate of meat!


Fever Tree Ginger Beer and Lyre’s Dark Cane Spirit

AF cocktails get a seat at the table, too! What better than a spin on Bermuda’s unofficial drink, the Dark ‘n’ Stormy? The full-flavored notes of Lyre’s and the long-lasting ginger flavor of Fever Tree’s ginger beer make this alcohol free option pretty close to perfect. This cocktail pairs so well with BBQ that there are even recipes for barbecue sauces with dark rum and ginger beer. Talk about a drink that complements the palate!

The evolution of non-alcoholic and alcohol-free options makes this summer even more enjoyable for those choosing to celebrate and party soberly. Do you have any favorite AF cocktails or pairings you bring to your Summer BBQ? Let us know!