ZENO Wines is part of a new generation of producers reshaping perceptions of alcohol-free wine through uncompromising quality, technical precision, and fine wine philosophy. Founded by wine trade veterans David Hodgson and Will Willis, ZENO was created with a singular ambition: to close the “compromise gap” that has long defined the alcohol-free category.

Working exclusively with a historic organic estate in Castile-La Mancha, Spain, ZENO combines traditional viticulture and winemaking with advanced de-alcoholisation techniques to craft wines that retain varietal identity, structure, texture, and gastronomic appeal. The result is a collection of sophisticated alcohol-liberated wines designed for wine enthusiasts seeking moderation without sacrificing authenticity or complexity.

The brand’s rapid rise has been recognised internationally at the London Wine Competition 2026, where ZENO secured multiple top honours including:

• ZENO Alcohol-Liberated Viura — Double Gold Medal, 96 Points, Wine of the Year Spain
• ZENO Alcohol-Liberated Tempranillo Cabernet — Gold Medal, 94 Points
• ZENO Alcohol-Liberated Sparkling Rosé NV — Gold Medal, 94 Points
• ZENO Alcohol-Liberated Sparkling NV — Gold Medal, 92 Points
• ZENO Alcohol-Liberated Bobal Rosé — Gold Medal, 90 Points

Founded on Fine Wine Expertise

After decades working in the traditional wine trade, David Hodgson made the personal decision to eliminate alcohol from his lifestyle while still wanting to enjoy the ritual and sophistication of fine wine. Alongside co-founder Will Willis, this led to an intensive three-year research and development journey focused on producing alcohol-free wines with genuine balance, varietal expression, and textural integrity.

Rather than relying on residual sugar to compensate for the loss of alcohol — a common practice within the category — ZENO focused on technical excellence at every stage of production. From vineyard management and harvest timing to vinification, de-alcoholisation, and final blending, every component was re-evaluated through the lens of alcohol-free winemaking.

This collaborative process brought together estate viticulturists, de-alcoholisation specialists, and leading Master of Wine Jane Masters MW, whose expertise in chemistry and oenology helped translate the founders’ stylistic ambitions into a technical framework that continues to guide ZENO’s evolution today.

The Wines of Virtue

Named after the ancient Greek philosopher Zeno, the brand is built around four timeless virtues: Moderation, Wisdom, Justice, and Courage. These principles underpin both the winemaking philosophy and the visual identity of the brand.

Moderation informs the pursuit of balance and restraint in the wines themselves. Wisdom reflects a respect for traditional winemaking while embracing innovation and scientific advancement. Justice reinforces ZENO’s commitment to sustainability, wellness, and ethical production. Courage drives the brand’s willingness to challenge category conventions and push the boundaries of what alcohol-free wine can achieve.

The phrase “The obstacle is the way” became a defining mantra during the company’s extensive R&D trials, while the brand’s guiding ethos — “Happiness is a good flow of life” — reflects ZENO’s broader vision of mindful indulgence.

Precision Winemaking for Alcohol-Free Excellence

ZENO’s production philosophy begins with high-quality base wines. The company’s partner estate, established in 1853, provides consistency in viticulture, winemaking, and experimentation, allowing the team to fine-tune wines specifically for de-alcoholisation.

The latest generation of gentle, low-temperature, high-vacuum de-alcoholisation technology enables greater retention of aromatic compounds, varietal nuance, and texture than traditional methods such as spinning cone systems. This evolution has fundamentally changed the category, placing far greater importance on the quality and structure of the base wine itself.

Viticultural decisions are equally critical. ZENO focuses on organically farmed vineyards with healthy soils and balanced vine growth, selecting expressive Spanish varieties including Viura, Tempranillo, Garnacha, Macabeo, and Bobal. Earlier-picked parcels contribute freshness and acidity, while slightly riper parcels provide texture and body. Night harvesting helps preserve volatile aromatics and freshness.

Viura, in particular, has emerged as a defining variety for the brand due to its natural phenolic grip, broad mid-palate, aromatic stability, and mineral freshness — qualities that translate exceptionally well through de-alcoholisation while maintaining a distinctly wine-like profile.

The resulting wines are low in sugar, structurally balanced, and designed with food compatibility in mind — offering a more sophisticated alternative to traditionally sweetened alcohol-free wines.

Sustainability and Long-Term Vision

Sustainability is integrated throughout ZENO’s supply chain and production model. The partner estate employs solar and wind energy systems, advanced water conservation practices, responsible waste management, and ethical standards aligned with SMETA protocols. Lightweight glass and recyclable packaging components further reduce environmental impact.

Looking ahead, ZENO continues to invest heavily in research and innovation. The upcoming “Virtues” range, launching in 2026, represents the next evolution of the category, beginning with a barrel-aged Tempranillo sourced from old bush vines and designed specifically for gastronomy-focused occasions.

The company is also exploring new formats to expand accessibility and occasion-based consumption, including premium sparkling wines in 250ml cans and single-serve formats for still wines.

By combining fine wine expertise, technical innovation, and a clear philosophical identity, ZENO is positioning itself at the forefront of the premium alcohol-free wine movement — raising expectations for what the category can deliver to both trade and consumers alike.