Raise a Glass, Skip the Crash: Why We Love Zebra Striping

We’ve all had those nights. You’re out with friends, having a great time, and then suddenly that third drink hits harder than expected. You wake up the next morning feeling off - head foggy, sleep disrupted, regretting that one-too-many. I’ve been there, and honestly, it’s one of the reasons we started Nouvie.

When we created Nouvie, we wanted people to feel good about what they were drinking. Not just physically, but emotionally too. We wanted to make space for people who are cutting back, not drinking at all, or just want to slow down without stepping away from the moment.

That’s why I love the idea of zebra striping. It’s a simple approach: alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the night. Think wine, then water—or in our case, wine, then Nouvie. It helps you stay connected to the evening without overdoing it. You’re still part of the celebration, still enjoying what’s in your glass, just with a bit more intention.

I’ve started doing this naturally—especially at events or dinners that stretch into the night. I still want to toast, still want to be part of the vibe, but I also want to feel like myself the next day. Alternating drinks gives me that balance.

Why people are into it:

1.     It keeps the night going. You don’t have to “tap out” early just because you want to slow down. Mixing things up helps you pace yourself without stepping away from the fun.

2.    You feel better. Even one or two drinks can throw off your sleep or make you feel sluggish the next day. Giving your body a little space between rounds makes a difference.

3.    It gives you more control. Zebra striping puts you in the driver’s seat. You can enjoy the atmosphere, stay engaged, and still decide how much (or how little) alcohol feels right for you. It’s not about saying no to anything - it’s about saying yes to your intentional choice.

How I make it work: Before I head out, I usually check in with myself: How do I want to feel when this night is over? If the answer is “clear-headed and happy,” I know I’ll probably switch it up a bit and zebra stripe.

If I’m hosting, I always make sure to offer solid N/A options that feels like a treat, not an afterthought. And if I’m a guest, I bring Nouvie for me and to share.

This is exactly why we made Nouvie. Our sparkling white is made in Spain using real wine grapes and traditional winemaking techniques. We remove the alcohol gently, keeping the flavor and complexity. It’s dry, crisp, not too sweet - and only 3g of sugar in a 240ml serving which is one of – if not the – lowest on the marker! Nouvie looks and feels like wine, because it is.

So whether you're drinking or not, or somewhere in between, zebra striping is one small shift that can make a big difference. And Nouvie is here when you want a pause that still feels like part of the party.

And finally, is it still zebra striping if the non-alc option totally steals the show? ;)