Dry January in Charleston
As the new year begins, many visitors and locals alike are seeking mindful, alcohol-free ways to enjoy Charleston. From Dry January resolutions to year-round wellness, the demand for sophisticated, zero-proof options is surging— and at Circa 1886, we’ve crafted a beverage program that delivers flavor, creativity, and elegance without compromise.
Alcohol-Removed Wines
For those who prefer a wine experience without alcohol, Sommelier Anne Hampton recommends a thoughtfully curated selection of dealcoholized wines, perfect for sipping during a winter evening in Charleston:
Anne’s Top Winter Picks:
- Kolonne Blanc Sparkling (Germany): Delicate and crisp, with bright notes of green apple and citrus.
- Kolonne Rosé Sparkling (Germany): Light, fragrant, and subtly berry-forward.
- Bolle, Blanc de Blanc Sparkling (Spain): Elegant, with vibrant acidity and soft floral notes.
- Bolle, Rosé Sparkling (Spain): Bright, fresh, and playful.
“These wines provide the ritual and elegance of traditional wine drinking, without compromising on flavor,” Anne says.
Spirit-Free Cocktails
For the bar team at Circa 1886, spirit-free cocktails are not an afterthought. Built with fresh botanicals, house-made components, and premium non-alcoholic distillates, each drink is crafted to deliver the same sense of balance, beauty, and pleasure as any classic cocktail. From bright citrus-forward sippers to herbaceous, bubbly elixers, each is designed to delight the senses and elevate the dining experience.
“Our guests are increasingly looking for refined alternatives that still feel indulgent,” says Denis Kats, Bar Manager at Circa 1886. “Our alcohol-free cocktails and wines allow you to enjoy the full Circa 1886 experience — the taste, the presentation, the ritual — without the alcohol.”
For a full list of alcohol-free cocktail options, explore our cocktail menu here.
Choosing alcohol-free doesn’t mean sacrificing elegance or indulgence. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic evening, celebrating a milestone, or simply enjoying a lighter night out, Circa 1886 ensures every sip is thoughtful, flavorful, and memorable.
From carefully crafted cocktails to seasonally inspired dishes, Circa 1886’s winter offerings allow guests to fully embrace a refined dining experience — mindful, sophisticated, and perfectly suited for Dry January.
Meet the Experts
Anne Hampton
With a deep passion for the storied history of viticulture, Anne has meticulously researched and tasted countless dealcoholized labels to find the few that truly honor the grape. Her mission is to ensure every guest at Circa 1886 finds the perfect pairing, regardless of the ABV.
Denis Kats
Denis treats mixology as a culinary art. By focusing on house-made botanical extractions and the architecture of flavor, he ensures that our spirit-free cocktails are just as complex and celebratory as our classic menu. For Denis, it’s not about what is missing—it’s about the vibrancy of the ingredients.
