Luann de Lesseps told Page Six in an exclusive interview that she created her non-alcoholic Fosé Rosé with one big goal in mind.
“I’m really hoping it can help take away the stigma of making the choice not to drink,” said the Bravo star, 56, whose commitment to sobriety was highlighted on the last season of “The Real Housewives of New York City” and Peacock’s “Ultimate Girls Trip” spin-off.
“This product was really born out of necessity,” said de Lesseps. “My daughter [Victoria] and I both don’t drink and we were tired of being at the mercy of a mixologist. This is an elevated drink that helps you feel like you’re still part of the party.”
The “Money Can’t Buy You Class” singer continued, “No one likes to be judged for ordering a glass of Perrier. I wanted to make things easier for people who are sober. It’s also great for people who still drink and just want to take a break from alcohol.”
De Lesseps — who prefers not to label her relationship with drinking, taking it “day by day” — noted that her sparkling beverage is an “amazing option” for those participating in Dry January.
“It’s full of euphorics and hydrating properties,” she pointed out. “Plus, it really mimics the taste of a real rosé, which was important to me. You would truly never know the difference.”
Hilary Sheinbaum, author of “The Dry Challenge: How to Lose the Booze for Dry January, Sober October, and Any Other Alcohol-Free Month,” told Page Six that non-alcoholic wine is indeed a great alternative for temporary and partial abstainers.
“Whether you’re doing a sober month or you just want to maintain the same flavor after you’ve hit your limit for the night, a non-alcoholic wine can be very helpful depending on your goals,” Sheinbaum said.
“Having to explain those goals can be uncomfortable, so a product like Luann’s can prevent the awkwardness of ordering a Diet Coke or whispering your mocktail order to the bartender. That way, you feel empowered drinking something you enjoy without your personal choices being questioned.”
De Lesseps — who has said she feels “more confident, vibrant and at peace” with herself sans booze — is hoping to expand her brand one day.
“I would love to launch other kinds of non-alcoholic wines,” she revealed. “But I think rosé was a great start. A lot of love and purpose went into it and making it taste perfect, so I’m thrilled that people seem to love it. I think the sky’s the limit here.”