Burn without the buzz: Arkay Beverages
Launched in 2011, Arkay Beverages is a pioneer in alcohol-free options that aim to mimic the taste, aroma and mouthfeel of traditional spirits.
In 2011, before the global surge in low- and no-alcohol options, Arkay Beverages emerged from a chance moment of inspiration. Reynald Vito Grattagliano, a French-born perfumer and chemist, was driven to innovate after a late-night encounter in 2007 with his intoxicated son. The experience sparked an idea that he found too intriguing to ignore.
“My son came home drunk in the middle of the night, asked for forgiveness, and suggested I create an alcohol-free ‘whisky’. He believed that people in nightclubs should have the option to enjoy the whisky experience without consuming alcohol. This moment was deeply emotional and became the inspiration behind Arkay,” says Grattagliano.
Using his expertise in chemistry, along with his passion for innovation and entrepreneurship, Grattagliano spent the next four years researching and developing the perfect formula for a guilt-free alternative to traditional spirits. His goal was to offer a healthier option that allowed not only his family but also people worldwide to enjoy the experience of drinking without alcohol.
One of the major challenges in developing Arkay’s products was finding a component that could mimic the character and mouthfeel of spirits without the presence of alcohol. In a ‘state-of-the-art’ laboratory in Switzerland, Grattagliano’s team of scientists engineered a new molecule that interacts with the tongue, stimulating the brain’s smell and taste receptors.
The patented process, referred to as WARM, is said to trick the mind into believing it is consuming alcohol. Using the newly developed proprietary molecule, Arkay was created as a water-based beverage blended with natural aromas, without the use of distillates or fermentation.
Grattagliano reflects on the challenges he encountered at the beginning: “Following years of development, we launched Arkay in the US after a multi-million-dollar investment. We introduced our products when alcohol-free options were non-existent in the spirits industry, and I felt like I had made a big mistake. But thanks to media attention, our products began to sell quickly as health-conscious consumers realised there was an option without the negative effects of alcohol.”
Grattagliano claims that Arkay is the “number one-selling alcohol-free ‘spirit’ brand in the US”.
He continues: “As the pioneer and original creator of the alcohol-free ‘spirits’ concept, we have successfully built a billion-dollar company that produces and markets a diverse range of zero-proof and functional beverages, operating in more than 120 countries worldwide. Reflecting on the launch in 2011, I am glad I took the risk.”
Variety rules
After more than a decade of research and refinement, Arkay believes it has developed products that replicate the authentic flavour profiles of full-strength spirits without the artificial or overly sweet taste often found in non-alcoholic cocktails.
In what is described as an industry first, Arkay offers a lineup of more than 30 alcohol-free varieties enhanced with the WARM molecule. The collection includes alternatives for whisky, vodka, gin, rum, brandy and Tequila, as well as pre-mixed alcohol-free cocktails, bitters, liqueurs, and apéritifs. Arkay also offers functional drinks infused with adaptogens and botanical extracts, customised for regional markets based on cultural taste preferences.
Arkay’s first-to-market alcohol-free beverages are vegan, Halal-certified, gluten-free, FDA-approved, and compliant with EU regulations, with many formulations containing no sugar or calories. The brand caters to both casual drinkers and professional bartenders, while honouring the art of mixology, offering a variety of sizes.
Arkay’s slogan, ‘Feel the Burn – Without the Buzz’, underscores its commitment to providing the mouthfeel and sensory experience of alcohol without intoxication. Due to its unique formulation, Arkay is suitable for health-conscious consumers, those abstaining from alcohol for religious, medical, or personal reasons, designated drivers, sober-curious individuals, and pregnant women.
The brand is available through e-commerce, supermarkets, and international distribution with regional partners and agents. Key markets for Arkay include North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The brand’s products range from US$29.99 to US$39.90, available on the company’s website. Arkay employs eco-friendly production methods that emphasise social responsibility and promote inclusive drinking experiences, supporting a mindful drinking culture and prioritising public health.
Lifestyle shift
As the pioneer and original creator of 0.0%-ABV alternatives, launched in 2011, Arkay claims to have spearheaded the global movement toward healthier, more inclusive, and responsible drinking.
“For me, the creation of Arkay was about family and the importance of caring for the next generation. That’s what matters most. On a global scale, our success has been driven by the fact that Arkay is more than just a drink; it’s a social experience that allows people to enjoy themselves without compromise. Choosing Arkay represents a lifestyle shift towards healthier drinking,” concludes Grattagliano.
With plans to pass the company down to his son and daughter, Grattagliano aims to ensure that Arkay Beverages continues its mission to offer a safe and enjoyable alcohol-free experience for generations to come.
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