Why health-conscious guests default to vodka sodas and how bars can unlock a new revenue stream with premium no/low sugar cocktails.

For years, one of the most consistent customers at the bar has also been one of the most misunderstood.

They sit down, scan the menu, and order a vodka soda.

Not because it is what they truly want
but because it is what they feel they can trust.

This guest is not disengaged. They are not uninterested in cocktails. In fact, they are often highly intentional about what they consume. They are thinking about sugar, how they feel the next day, their health goals, or managing things like blood sugar and weight.

And for a long time, the cocktail menu has not been built with them in mind.

Why Health-Conscious Drinkers Default to Vodka Sodas

The vodka soda has become the default for a reason. They can trust it.

It is simple. It is predictable. It feels safe.

For guests looking for low sugar alcohol options, it has been one of the few choices that does not come with uncertainty.

Even when guests try to branch out, the options are limited.

The “skinny margarita” movement was a clear signal. Customers were asking for something lighter, more aligned with their lifestyle. But in many cases, the solution did not fully meet their needs. Ingredients like agave are still forms of sugar, which can be a concern for those following keto lifestyles, managing diabetes, or simply trying to reduce sugar intake.

So they return to what they know.

Not because it is exciting
but because it feels reliable.

The Missed Opportunity for Bars and Restaurants

Here is where the industry has it wrong:

The vodka soda drinker is not a low-value guest.

They are an underserved one.

This is a customer who is already making intentional choices. They are often willing to spend more for quality, for ingredients they trust, and for an experience that aligns with their lifestyle.

But when the only dependable option is a vodka soda, that is where they stay.

This creates a hidden gap on menus across the country.

Bars and restaurants are unintentionally leaving revenue on the table by not offering elevated no or low sugar cocktails that these guests can confidently order.

The Rise of No and Low Sugar Cocktails

There is a shift happening in how people want to drink.

Consumers are becoming more aware of sugar content, ingredients, and how alcohol impacts their overall well-being. This shift spans across demographics, from younger drinkers to older guests who are prioritizing health more than ever before.

Search interest in terms like low sugar cocktails, keto cocktails, and cocktails for diabetics continues to grow, signaling a broader movement in the beverage industry.

And yet, most cocktail menus have not caught up.

What Happens When You Offer a Better Option

When a bar or restaurant introduces a thoughtfully crafted no or low sugar cocktail, something interesting happens.

That same guest who has been ordering a vodka soda begins to explore.

They upgrade.

They engage with the menu again.

Instead of defaulting to the simplest option, they now have a reason to choose something more premium, more intentional, and more aligned with their lifestyle.

This is not about replacing existing customers.
It is about unlocking a new level of engagement from customers who have been there all along.

A New Revenue Stream Hidden in Plain Sight

For operators, this represents more than just a menu update.

It is a new revenue stream.

By offering premium no or low sugar cocktails, bars and restaurants can:

Increase average ticket size
Differentiate their menu
Attract and retain health-conscious guests
Move beyond the limitations of traditional cocktail offerings

This is not a niche audience. It is a growing and loyal customer base that has been waiting for better options.

You Don’t Have to Change How People Drink

The biggest misconception is that this shift requires changing customer behavior.

It does not.

People still want to enjoy cocktails. They still want to socialize, celebrate, and experience something elevated.

What has been missing is the ability to do that without compromise.

You don’t have to change how people drink. Just what you pour.

Final Thought

The vodka soda is not the problem.

It is a signal.

A signal that a large group of customers has been navigating menus without truly finding what they are looking for.

For the operators who recognize this and respond, the opportunity is significant.

Because once you give people something they trust, and something they enjoy, they won’t go back to basic.

Take Away

If you’re thinking about how to better serve health-conscious guests or introduce a no/low sugar cocktail menu, we’re having these conversations every day with operators across the country.

Above Board Liqueurs is leading the charge in the Better For You beverage movement, helping bars and restaurants unlock a new revenue stream through premium, no/low sugar cocktails.

You don’t have to change how people drink. Just what you pour.

 View No and Low Sugar Cocktail Ideas

Above Board Cocktail Recipes

Innovation is brewing in the restaurant and bar industry as establishments embrace and cater to a growing demand for healthier libations. Enter Above Board Liqueurs, the pioneering and award-winning San Diego brand that is revolutionizing the way cocktails are served by introducing the concept of sugar-free and low-sugar ingredients for cocktails that don’t compromise on taste.

We spoke with founder, Nicole Slone, and her husband and partner, Brent Slone, to learn the story behind this innovative brand and its mission to offer guilt-free indulgence for today’s health-conscious, active consumer — who still likes to celebrate the day with a cocktail in hand.

Above Board Liqueurs: A Journey of Passion and Purpose

Entering the spirits industry wasn’t merely a career step for the couple, it emerged from their desire to disrupt the market with groundbreaking products in a category that had long been stagnant.

They are the ideal customers for their own product: driven, hard-working, active, and unwilling to be forced to choose between having a great cocktail and their health goals.

Not finding what they were looking for at their favorite bars and liquor stores, the couple embarked on this adventure with a clear mission: to shake up the industry with a revolutionary product that would redefine how we think about indulgence.

At the heart of Above Board lies a simple yet profound purpose—to offer cocktail enthusiasts an alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or wellness. 

Nicole began crafting their formulas in her own kitchen with her now-husband Brent, driven by a desire to enjoy delicious beverages without sacrificing health. 

By prioritizing quality ingredients and innovative techniques, they created a line of sugar-free liqueurs with no glycemic load, ensuring that indulgence doesn’t come at the cost of well-being. 

The result has been celebrated by consumers and peers in the industry, as reflected in the brand’s growth and awards.

Reflecting on her journey, Nicole shares, “Above Board Liqueurs wasn’t just a brand; it was the realization of years of research, experimentation, and unwavering dedication. I knew there had to be a way to create no and low-sugar cocktails with natural ingredients to create beverages that didn’t just taste good but also aligned with a healthy lifestyle.”

The Power of Partnership

It’s already well-known that it’s an incredibly stressful experience to start your own business. Going into business with a spouse adds many layers of complexities that most couples would not want to broach.

For Nicole, the decision to add Brent as a business partner was a natural one. Brent’s business acumen, entrepreneurship, and extensive background in technology played a pivotal role, both personally and professionally towards building the foundation of their venture.

Nicole expresses her gratitude, “I am immensely grateful for the invaluable contributions of my husband, Brent. His unwavering support, belief in our vision, and willingness to share the journey with me have been the pillars of strength that propelled Above Board Liqueurs forward.”

Challenging Norms and Redefining Expectations

Nicole is reshaping the spirit scene with a fresh twist: health-conscious cocktails that taste good. She’s uncovered a gap in the market where consumers crave quality and are ready to invest in it.

Research shows there’s a real appetite for delicious healthier drinks, and that people are willing to pay more for the right mix, but the usual ‘skinny’ options made with artificial ingredients just don’t cut it on flavor. Above Board is using this insight to lead the industry towards this untapped market, promising a win-win of satisfaction and revenue for everyone involved.

It isn’t just about cocktails; it’s about transforming perceptions and practices within the spirits industry. By prioritizing taste and health in their offerings, Above Board is setting a new standard that customers are equally embracing. Their approach is not only refreshing pallets, but also refreshing market strategy.

As they continue to innovate and cater to the sophisticated preferences of modern drinkers, they’re proving that the future of spirits is flavorful, health-conscious, and prosperous. Above Board is at the forefront, leading the charge and crafting the next generation of premium cocktails that don’t just meet expectations, they exceeded them.

Crafting a Healthier Future, One Sip at a Time

The timing couldn’t be better for Nicole and Brent: they truly believe that the spirits industry is ready for a paradigm shift towards meeting the changing consumer tastes and expectations for healthier alternatives. 

Above Board answers the call perfectly, with a brand and product that embodies a vision of indulgence without compromise, offering modern health-focused consumers a guilt-free option that aligns with their values and dietary preferences. 

As Nicole looks ahead, she remains committed to empowering Above Board’s customers to savor moments of indulgence without hesitation, knowing that they’re taking care of themselves in the process. 

To build on their momentum, they will be expanding Above Board’s offerings to include four new flavors, as well as a ready-to-serve line and cocktail syrup range, representing an exciting opportunity to further solidify their position as a leader in the industry.

“We’re eager to introduce these new offerings to our loyal customers and continue pushing the boundaries in this industry. Stay tuned!”

Join the Above Board Liqueurs Movement!

For Nicole, Above Board’s role in the spirits industry is not just a business but a canvas for creativity, craftsmanship, and community. 

“What I love most about the spirits industry is the sense of belonging and collaboration. It’s not just about competition; it’s about partnership and enhancing other brands with Above Boards offerings, and coming together as a community to support and uplift each other.”

Nicole and Brent invite you to join the Above Board Liqueurs movement and experience indulgence without compromise. 

Visit their website to explore their premium flavors and join the movement towards a healthier future, one sip at a time.

Connect with them on social media to stay updated on their latest news and innovations, and be sure to ask for their products at your favorite bar!

In the bustling heart of sunny Southern California, where vibrant lifestyles and health-conscious choices merge, a woman-owned business is changing the game in the world of cocktails. Above Board, founded by Nicole Slone and her husband Brent Slone, is revolutionizing the way we enjoy our favorite libations. With a passion for crafting healthier alternatives, this San Diego-based company is all about guilt-free indulgence without compromising on flavor.

The Power of Woman-Owned Innovation

Above Board is proudly woman-owned and led by Nicole Slone, who serves as the CEO. As a leading figure in the company, Nicole’s vision has been instrumental in driving Above Board’s mission to provide better, healthier choices for cocktail enthusiasts. Her dedication to creating a brand that promotes well-being is truly inspiring.

A Vision Born in SoCal

Above Board’s inception in late 2021 stemmed from a desire to fill a void in the alcoholic beverage industry. Nicole, Brent, and many others were disappointed by the lack of options for those seeking low-sugar or sugar-free alcoholic products. They recognized that the health-conscious movement had taken root in America, particularly among the younger generations, who were actively seeking alternatives to traditional cocktails laden with sugar.

Keto-Friendly and Health-Conscious

In a world where health-conscious choices are on the rise, Above Board stands out as a brand that understands the importance of catering to different lifestyles. Their commitment to offering keto-friendly options aligns perfectly with the preferences of health-conscious individuals.

A Local Gem with Global Ambitions

San Diego, often referred to as “America’s Finest City,” is the vibrant backdrop for Above Board’s journey. The city’s rich culture, active lifestyle, and love for good food and drinks have inspired the brand to craft exceptional products that cater to San Diego’s unique spirit. But Above Board’s ambitions reach far beyond the SoCal borders; they aim to bring their innovative liqueurs to a global audience.

Healthier Alternatives that Don’t Compromise on Flavor

What sets Above Board apart is its dedication to providing healthier alternatives that don’t compromise on flavor. Unlike many other sugar-free products on the market, Above Board’s liqueurs have zero diet aftertaste. They have mastered the art of crafting specialty cocktails tailored to suit your clientele, offering an exceptional experience free from commonly associated diet product nuances.

The Joy of Guilt-Free Indulgence

Above Board believes that savoring a great cocktail shouldn’t compromise your health or your enjoyment. Every sip of their award-winning Irish Cream, Coffee Liqueur, or Triple Sec is an invitation to indulge guilt-free. These liqueurs are perfect for crafting classic cocktails, bringing back after-dinner drinks, elevating happy hours, and creating holiday specialty cocktails.

Connect with Above Board

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of flavorful and guilt-free indulgence, connect with Above Board. Visit their website at http://drinkaboveboard.com to explore their exquisite collection, learn more about their innovative approach, and discover a growing library of cocktail recipes. You can also follow their inspiring journey on Instagram.

Contact Information

For inquiries and partnership opportunities, please reach out to Above Board at info@drinkaboveboard.com. Cheers to living lightly, without limits! Find them on instagram here: Above Board