Tasting Notes
Brasserie Parallèle: award-winning alcohol-free drinks
By Anthony
To begin
In the heart of the Gironde region, in Floirac, lies a pioneer in the non-alcoholic sector: Brasserie Parallèle. Founded in 2019 by Laurent Drège and Guillaume Soares—both passionate about beer and fermented drinks—the brewery stands out for its unique commitment: offering only non-alcoholic beverages. Through this approach, they aim to foster a new kind of social experience, free from the constraints of alcohol, while prioritising flavour and innovation. It is a gamble that has paid off handsomely, especially as the "no/low" trend continues to gain ground worldwide.
An unconventional start: from kefir to non-alcoholic beer
Brasserie Parallèle did not begin as a traditional brewery. Initially, it specialised in producing fruit kefirs — fermented drinks with numerous probiotic benefits. These kefirs, created through lactic fermentation, feature bold flavour profiles such as raspberry/hibiscus, ginger/Espelette pepper, and passion fruit. This success paved the way for further experimentation.
In 2023, the brewery launched its first non-alcoholic beers, crafted using a unique method. Unlike industrial dealcoholisation processes, La Brasserie Parallèle employs a specialised fermentation technique using specific yeasts and malts, thereby preserving the beer's full aromatic richness and complexity without the alcohol.
Innovation in the pursuit of flavour
La Brasserie Parallèle’s non-alcoholic beer range features three varieties that have quickly won over enthusiasts: a blonde, a wheat beer (blanche), and an IPA. What sets them apart? The use of spices and natural ingredients to enhance the flavour profile. For instance, the blonde is accented with Timut pepper, while the wheat beer subtly blends lemon juice and coriander. The IPA stands out with hints of black pepper and is hopped with Simcoe and Mosaic varieties. This pursuit of excellence was soon rewarded. This year, La Brasserie Parallèle won no fewer than two gold medals at the World Beer Awards, with its wheat beer and blonde ale gaining recognition as world-class products. Well done!
A rapidly expanding sector
Of course, if you are a regular reader of Alcool 0.0, you know that La Brasserie Parallèle’s success is part of a broader trend: the rise of non-alcoholic beverages. In Nouvelle-Aquitaine, several local players—ranging from dealcoholised wine to non-alcoholic spirits—are gradually and prudently entering this market segment. According to recent studies, the market for low-alcohol and alcohol-free beverages—the "no/low" sector—could grow by 8% annually through 2025, a rate far exceeding that of traditional alcoholic drinks.
Socialising with a kick!
The success of Brasserie Parallèle goes beyond its product lineup. Laurent Drège and Guillaume Soares successfully tapped into a demand for a different way of consuming—one that doesn't sacrifice enjoyment or the social aspect of drinking.
"You aren't boring just because you don't drink," they like to point out, aiming to break the ice and shatter clichés surrounding alcohol-free consumption.
At a time when younger generations—particularly 18- to 24-year-olds —are increasingly conscious of their health and image (especially on social media), alcohol-free options have emerged as a compelling alternative. In France, where alcohol consumption has dropped by 23% since 2000, alcohol-free drinks are securing a prime spot on the tables of Michelin-starred restaurants, in trendy bars, and even on supermarket shelves.
Brasserie Parallèle stands as an inspiring example of bold, forward-thinking entrepreneurship. By focusing on high-value non-alcoholic beverages, the company is helping to fundamentally transform consumption habits, offering everyone the chance to fully enjoy moments of connection—without alcohol, yet with just as much flavour. This shift is only just beginning... and La Brasserie Parallèle is well-positioned to lead the charge in France!