Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be a massive change or sacrifice. That said, I went to a blind tasting today, used the spit cup, and had a great time. Even learned something. (That I need to try more Washington Merlot.)
Restoring balance!
Happy New Year! I genuinely hope 2026 treats us all well—and by all, I mean everyone reading this. I hope the next year also treats everyone else fine, too, but I can’t help being biased toward us.
Let’s talk about Dry January, and with it, everything we perhaps should consider year ‘round. First off, here at Pour Advice, our primary goal is to positively push wine culture, education, and consumption further into the foreground of Nashville, which comes with a degree of responsibility we take seriously. Anyone struggling to confront deeper challenges with alcohol deserves open-minded help and can reach out to resources here.
For those simply drying out after a decadent holiday, we salute your fortitude and will not seek to inspire you to stumble. Processing alcohol does put strain on your body and giving yourself a break is a point of self care. Since it’s not our style to convince others that their personal goals are in violation of ours this month, we’ve decided to offer a quick reminder of what we tend to love about wine and how to focus that energy elsewhere in the meantime.
Community
Your usual watering hole is probably still open and will probably still be delighted to see you out, even if you’re not drinking alcohol. When the ultimate goal is to get out of your home and into the company of strangers, don’t let alcohol be the only motivation. Visit friendly faces! Try new things! Grab an extra bite to eat given all the carbs you’re saving up and go hang out! Their bar staff will still be grateful for the business. We promise.
Taste
The non-alcoholic beverage world has grown significantly since 2020 (lot of stuff changed back then, actually) and a category that used to be an afterthought has drawn a lot of thoughtful consideration. Ask your local bottle shops and wine bars about N/A beer, wine, and cocktails and see what they’ve got for you! We’re especially fond of N/A bubbles, especially with a splash of non-alcoholic gin and a floral syrup a la French 75.
Relaxation
Alcohol consumption and letting off steam have gone hand in hand (or glass in hand) for as long as people have had public spaces and the written word. Having alternatives, however, is important, regardless of what time of year it is. Exercise, meditation, and breath work are great alternatives for blowing off steam (we asked a doctor). If all that fails, though, there’s (for at least 6 more months) probably a THC beverage to be found nearby.
So what do you think?
How do you do January? Dry? Damp? Sopping wet? Either way, we’ll see you out and about here soon. – Josh