McGuigan Zero wine bottles with glasses and snacks

Non-Alcoholic Wine and Food Pairings for Dry July Entertaining

Discover the perfect Dry July pairings with McGuigan’s non-alcoholic wines full of flavour, made for good food and great company.

8 Jul 2025

Non-Alcoholic Wine and Food Pairings for Dry July Entertaining

Dry July isn't just about cutting out alcohol, it's about discovering new ways to enjoy life's great moments, especially those shared around good food and even better company. At McGuigan Wines, we believe Dry July is the perfect time to explore expertly crafted Non Alcoholic Wine and delicious food pairings that make every gathering special.

Why Dry July is the Perfect Time to Experiment

More Australians are embracing Dry July each year, using the month to support important cancer charities while also taking a mindful break from alcohol. But giving up alcohol doesn't mean giving up on flavour or fun. With McGuigan Zero, you can still elevate your meals, celebrate with friends, and enjoy every occasion, all while staying alcohol-free.

With moderation becoming the new norm, drinkers are finding more continuous ways to cut back with less drinking occasions and opting for light drops. More Australians are embracing moderation - by taking short breaks from alcohol or opting for just one drink per occasion. Globally, drinkers now represent the largest consumer group across 15 key markets, and no-alcohol wine is forecast to grow by 7% annually through to 2028 (Source: IWSR Insights). It is clear that more Australians are embracing the benefits of moderation.

That’s why McGuigan Zero was crafted to give you the flavour and experience your love, without the alcohol. Whether you’re hosting a winter dinner or just enjoying a quiet night in, our range makes it easy to stay dry without compromising taste.

 

Perfect Food Pairings for Dry July Entertaining with McGuigan Zero

 

McGuigan Zero Shirazbeef with a glass or red one on a plate with wine in a bottle at the back and sauce next to the meat

Tasting Notes: Plum, forest berries, subtle spice and vanilla

Perfect pairings:

  • Grilled lamb cutlets with rosemary - perfect for a hearty winter meal.

  • Roasted eggplant and capsicum - rich vegetarian flavours that mirror the wine’s depth.

  • Aged cheddar or blue cheese - bold cheeses balance beautifully with the Shiraz spice.

 

McGuigan Zero Sparkling

Tasting Notes: Crisp pear, green apple, lively acidity

Perfect pairings:

  • Spicy Thai red curry with prawns - the wine’s crisp finish and fruity lift cool the heat while letting ginger, lemongrass, and Chilli shine.

  • Grilled salmon fillet - balances the rosé’s freshness.

  • Soft goat cheese - creamy textures complement the crisp fruit notes.

 

McGuigan Zero Sparkling Rosé

Tasting Notes: Fresh strawberries, citrus, floral notes

Perfect pairings:

  • Oysters with a citrus vinaigrette - perfect for toasting any Dry July celebration.
  • Light Asian stir-fries - sparkles meet spice.
  • Slow-roasted lamb shoulder with prunes and saltbush - sparkling wine’s natural acidity cuts through rich meat, cleansing the palate with each sip.

 

McGuigan Zero Rosé

Tasting Notes: Strawberries and pink grapefruit with a crisp, refreshing finish.

Perfect pairings:Smoked salmon and brie on a small pancake

  • Smoked salmon and cream cheese blinis - a fresh and indulgent starter.

  • Grilled chicken with citrus glaze - complements the wine’s vibrant fruit notes.

  • Strawberry shortcake or pavlova - mirrors the bright strawberry flavours.

 

McGuigan Zero Alcohol Chardonnay

Tasting Notes: White peach, honey melon, subtle oak

Perfect pairings:

  • Roast chicken with herbs – comforting and flavoursome.

  • Creamy pasta dishes – balances richness with freshness.

  • Brie or camembert cheese – soft textures pair with the chardonnay’s rounded finish.

McGuigan Zero Sauvignon Blanc

Tasting Notes: Crisp pear, green apple, refreshing acidity

Perfect pairings:

  • Grilled seafood platters – clean, fresh match.
  • Fresh garden salads – ideal for alfresco lunches.
  • Light goat cheese tartlets – creamy yet fresh.

 

 

Looking for something in between?

If you're not quite ready to go completely alcohol-free, a mid-strength wine can be the perfect middle ground.

Enter McGuigan Black Label Mid Red offering all the flavour and richness you love in a red, but with a moderate 9.8% ABV. It’s ideal for those wanting to cut back without compromising on taste.

 

McGuigan Black Label Mid Red

Tasting Notes: Plum, dark berries, subtle spice and toasty oak with a smooth, velvety finish

Perfect pairings:

  • Spaghetti Bolognese with parmesan – a classic match that brings out the wine’s richness.

  • Grilled lamb koftas with yoghurt sauce – spice meets smooth red fruit.

  • Roast pumpkin and mushroom pizza – earthy, savoury flavours balanced by soft tannins.

 

Tips to Make Your Dry July Entertaining a Success

Plan your menu around great pairings by planning your food around  McGuigan Zero’s non-alcoholic wines, you can still create a dining experience that feels indulgent and complete.

Keep Things Festive Add non-alcoholic mocktails to your menu using McGuigan Zero as a base from spritzers to sparkling cocktails, you’ll find plenty of recipes in our mocktail collection.

 

Start Your Dry July Journey with McGuigan Zero

With McGuigan Zero, your Dry July doesn’t need to feel like a sacrifice. Our award-winning non-alcoholic wines deliver full flavour and pair beautifully with every meal and occasion.

Explore our Non Alcoholic Wine, stock up for the month ahead, and enjoy Dry July in delicious new ways.

Discover other ways to enjoy Dry July here:

(Source: IWSR Insights ‘Five Key Trends Shifting the Beverage Alcohol Market in 2025)