Alcohol-like taste without the after-effects: Dry January has more non-alcoholic options than before

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- There are a few things Wisconsin is known for. Among them, it's cheese and beer. Starting next month, some in the state may be leaning towards a non-alcoholic option.

At Ray's Wine and Spirits, you'll find what you need to make a drink or two. 

“We carry over 3,000 wines, 1,000 spirits, and over 1,000 beers," said Nate Norfolk, the director of wine and spirits at Ray's. 

Now, the family-owned business has an addition to its liquor aisles -- non-alcoholic wine, spirits, and beer.

“There’s a lot of people that want to still engage in social activities, but do so in a sober manner," said Norfolk.

The new year is full of resolutions and for some people, that means trading in a boozy drink for a non-alcoholic one.

“Uncharted territory still, a bit," said Mike Walker, the onsite business manager at Lakefront Brewery. 

For 31 days, people across the nation reach for the sober option. It's a challenge known as Dry January. 

“It’s definitely that popular month for people to take a breather after the holidays of all the drinking that goes on for Christmas and the new year, especially," said Walker.

Bartenders say the drinks have an alcohol-like taste, but without the same after-effects. 

“Even people that drink beer, if they want to take a break from the alcohol, they can enjoy some non-alcoholic variety and still get that great flavor," said Walker. 

As the demand for non-alcoholic drinks rises, the variety of them does, too.

“You know, a half decade or so ago, there was nowhere near the quality of non-alcoholic products, nor were there the selections that we have today," said Norfolk. 

For 31 days, bartenders say you can be sober without giving up a classic Wisconsin pastime. 

“Take life without alcohol for a little bit," said Walker.