Summer is upon us and what better way to celebrate the joys of summer than with a delicious vegan drink. Whether you are mixing up a cocktail, mocktail or G&T, or pouring an ice-cold beer or glass of wine, there are a variety of vegan-friendly refreshments available and ready for enjoyment.

The demand for vegan drinks are at an ‘all-time’ high in South Africa, with more and more people opting for plant-based ways of life. Vegan diets do not only involve vegan foods, but also vegan drinks and have inspired drinks brands to be more innovative and creative to join this timeless trend. From juices to teas and coffees, energy drinks to sodas, smoothies to alcoholic drinks – vegan drinks are everywhere around us – fitting the consumers’ desire to enjoy products that are delicious, good for them and good for the planet.

We’ve rounded up the most delightful vegan alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy this summertime:

Rekorderlig Cider

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a refreshing Rekorderlig Cider on a balmy afternoon. These Swedish ciders are vegan-friendly and are made with European apples and consist of a blend of fruit and pure spring water, resulting in a premium and refreshing drink. The semi-sweet, fruity ciders are available in South Africa in three different flavours, including Strawberry-Lime, Mango-Raspberry and Wild Berries. Enjoyed by those who yearn for something refreshingly different, Rekorderlig cider embodies the spirit of Sweden: a modern, forward thinking nation with innovation and balance at its core.

Best served pre-chilled, poured over lots of ice and garnished with the recommended garnishes.

Leopard’s Leap de-alcoholised Red & White Natura

Leopard’s Leap’s Natura, a de-alcoholised Red & White Wine, are a delicious alternative that can be enjoyed on their own and makes for an outstanding partner at the lunch and / or dinner table. Not only are these de-alcoholised wines lower in calories, but they are also vegan friendly. Available in classic white and classic red, Natura Wines provides wine lovers a delightful alternative for adding quality to life during those occasions, or in those moments, where alcohol can or should not be consumed.

Leopard’s Leap Natura is perfect for those seeking an alternative for a more health-conscious, vegan-friendly lifestyle and diet.

Spice Route Obscura Wines

Spice Route Wines is an award-winning winery known for its artisanal, terroir-driven wines from the Swartland. Spice Route Obscura was born when Charles Back, owner of Spice Route Wines and Charl du Plessis, Spice Route Wines’ winemaker set out to Georgia to learn more about the origins of winemaking. This ancient method, still in use today, involves handmade terracotta vessels, known as Qvevri. These vessels have been carefully shipped across the world where Spice Route’s qvevri wines were born. The Obscura Red, White & Rosé are a true, natural expression of the grapes and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with any favourite menu item this Holiday.