Laori

The idea took shape in 2018, when Strüfing stopped drinking alcohol and found herself in a Berlin bar wanting a gin and tonic without the alcohol. Unable to find an option she was satisfied with, she began distilling in her own kitchen. Together with Zimmermann, she developed a novel production process that draws on traditional perfume distillation methods used in France, where the brand grows its herbs and spices fresh before processing them. Maceration takes place regionally in the area surrounding Berlin, and the finished drinks are produced and bottled there. The distillation approach naturally recreates the smell and taste of the spirits it takes as its reference.

The range includes alcohol-free alternatives to gin and rum, aperitifs in several styles, and a sparkling white wine. All products are made with natural botanicals, herbs and spices, and Laori places emphasis on the quality of its raw materials. Two of its drinks have picked up awards.

Female-founded and based in Germany, Laori sells through specialist alcohol-free retailers and directly from its own website.