The brand, created by husband-and-wife team Charlie and Natalie Winkworth-Smith, serves as a non-alcoholic alternative to enhance drinking and pairing experiences
Drinking—whether for casual get-togethers or to enhance meals—is ingrained in our social DNA. However, unlike 10 years ago when one would sometimes feel pressured to consume alcohol in a gathering and not feel alienated, today’s scene has become more inclusive with the rise of non-alcoholic options.
You will see it in bars and restaurants that have expanded beverage lists, including mocktails, juices as well as non-alcoholic cocktails. Go online or visit a gourmet store and you will also notice non-alcoholic spirits like Melati, Seedlip and Lyre’s prominently displayed on the shelves.
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The latest brand to enter the local market is Saicho, a non-alcoholic sparkling tea brand that was founded in 2019 by UK-based husband-and-wife team Charlie and Natalie Winkworth-Smith. Both food scientists and passionate foodies, the idea for Saicho stemmed from Natalie’s alcohol intolerance and missing out on the full food and wine pairing experiences when they dined at restaurants.
As Natalie originated from Hong Kong, where meals often came with tea, the couple decided to focus on non-alcoholic sparkling teas that would hold their own whether they’re paired with food or drunk on their own. Creating the tea flavours, they used Darjeeling (black tea from India), hojicha (roasted green tea from Japan) and jasmine (green tea from China). The tea leaves are steeped at a low temperature, ensuring the delicate aromatics are extracted, before the effervescence is added for a mellow mouthfeel and fizzy finish. When you are somewhere with hot and humid weather like Singapore, it is best savoured chilled in a champagne flute or mixed in a cocktail.
Saicho is currently available in London, Hong Kong and Singapore, where it is exclusively distributed by Crystal Wines and served at Goodwood Park Hotel. Click here to order.