Westchester's first spirit-free bottle shop opens as zero-proof drinks grow in popularity

Zero-proof beverages are having a moment, especially at Westchester County's first "spirit-free bottle shop."

DrySpace in Dobbs Ferry has dozens of alcohol-free beverages, including beer, wine, bourbon and gin. They are all "zero proof," meaning they contain no measurable alcohol, while non-alcoholic beverages can contain trace amounts. It's something that was important to co-owner Molly Ferguson, who stopped drinking years ago.

"So I only drank water, coffee or soda for 15 years.  And then I was introduced to this," said Ferguson. 

In 2025, alcohol consumption fell to a 90-year low, while sales of non-alcoholic beer and spirits have almost doubled in two years.

"They are looking to consume more mindfully, even though they still consume alcohol, or they're consuming less for medical reasons," said Matt Ferguson.

Matt Ferguson explained that producers of these beverages are constantly creating new innovations as demand continues to grow. He said that lion's mane mushrooms are very popular to enhance zero-proof products right now, as are other so-called "adaptogens."

"Designed to help people either feel a sense of calm or just a general sense of well-being," said Matt Ferguson.

DrySpace also provides samples to anyone who may be curious about these popular beverages. CBS News New York's Tony Aiello tried a non-alcoholic white wine while there.

"The mouthfeel is slightly off, but it's good. I would have a glass of that without hesitation," Aiello said. 

It's safe to say there's a buzz about the products, even if they don't provide one.