A review of Katy Perry's sparkling, non-alcoholic apéritifs, De Soi.
Have I been living under a rock? I had no idea that Katy Perry launched her own brand of sparkling, non-alcoholic apéritifs in 2022. Probably because I was, ahem, less interested in the non-alcoholic market back in those days. But now we're a whole year older and wiser, so let's see what these drinks have in store for us.
I found these handy, travel-size cans at an online shop I love called Boisson, and they also carry full-size bottles. The packaging is beautiful, and for $25+ per four-pack they better be. I tried three different flavors (there's a fourth rosé as well), each loaded with botanicals like blackcurrant, birch and yuzu with natural adaptogens including reishi mushroom, ashwagandha and maca for a "settled yet sharper mind."
There's only one I would order again, though I do appreciate the complexity that went into each of these apéritifs. While I personally didn't notice any of the mood-enhancing properties (sharper mind, relaxation, etc.), they each have a much more elevated flavor profile than many of the non-alcoholic canned products I've tried, and it's worth exploring for yourself to find one you enjoy.
My favorite of the three, Purple Lune, is made with tart cherry, ashwagandha, date syrup and a list of complex ingredients. The flavor is deep and dark with a well-balanced earthiness. The cherry really shines alongside balsamic vinegar, vanilla and a hint of cocoa. It feels like you're actually drinking a cocktail, and I'd definitely order this one again.
Champignon Dreams is made from a duo of reishi mushroom and passion flower along with L-theanine derived from green tea. Up front there were nice notes of strawberry and apricot, with a funky earthiness finish. It tasted sort of like a fruity mushroom kombucha. Not exactly what I'm looking for in an evening cocktail, but perhaps an acquired taste.
Golden Hour is made with a "mood-boosting" blend of L-theanine derived from green tea and lemon balm, alongside yuzu juice, maple syrup and a blend of herbs. It was quite gingery, citrusy and sweet up front, almost like a ginger beer. We were off to a great start, but the finish was quite bitter and soap-like. I had several people recommend this one to me, so perhaps it's like cilantro - some people taste herbs and some taste soap. Unfortunately, I got the soap.
Watch me review these on Instagram and send me message with some of your favorite n/a products, I'd love to hear from you. Happy clean drinking!
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