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Luba, a company based in Sturgeon Bay, WI, announced that its premium ready-to-drink cocktails earned Silver, Bronze, and Commended distinctions at the World Alcohol-Free Awards on April 16, 2026. The awards were given for Luba’s Cranberry Cosmo, Lime Margarita, and Grapefruit Paloma. Christiana Trapani, co-founder of Luba, commented on the recognition.
We need to output the revised article text only. Let's craft it.Luba’s latest trio of awards—Silver, Bronze and Commended at the 2026 World Alcohol‑Free Awards—signals to operators that its non‑alcoholic ready‑to‑drink (RTD) cocktails are being judged favorably in a niche but growing segment.
The global zero‑proof market is projected to surpass $30 billion by 2032, and Luba’s medals suggest the brand has secured a solid foothold within this expanding category. The awards were decided on color, aroma and flavor balance—criteria that align with consumer expectations for sophisticated non‑alcoholic alternatives.
Compared with more established spirits contests, the World Alcohol‑Free Awards applies less stringent weighting. In 2025 only 3 % of entries earned Gold Outstanding at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), while 12 % reached Gold status. Against those figures, Luba’s Silver and Bronze placements on a line that previously captured three Golds and one Silver in the 2025 International Non‑Alcoholic Competition demonstrate competitive performance among zero‑proof entrants.
Retailers can view this as a low‑risk entry point into the category: the brand’s website, drinkluba.com, offers an online store locator that indicates existing retail partners beyond its Wisconsin base. The awards provide independent validation that can support shelf placement in premium sections or curated zero‑proof menus.
Operators may next test Luba alongside other award‑winning non‑alcoholic brands, measuring consumer response and refining their zero‑proof portfolio to meet the growing expectations of health‑conscious drinkers.
Original Press Release
Luba’s premium ready-to-drink cocktails earn Silver, Bronze, and Commended distinctions on the global stage
Sturgeon Bay, WI – April 16, 2026 – Luba, creator of premium ready-to-drink non-alcoholic cocktails, proudly announces its recent success at the World Alcohol-Free Awards, where the brand earned three major honors. With Silver, Bronze, and Commended distinctions across its signature cocktails, Luba continues to set a new standard for sophistication and quality in the alcohol-free beverage category.
Christiana Trapani, co-founder of Luba, emphasized the significance of the recognition:
Luba’s Cranberry Cosmo earned a prestigious Silver medal, standing out for its complexity and elegance. Judges praised its dusky pink color and vibrant notes of hibiscus, lime, and Japanese plum, describing a delicate, dry palate layered with subtle spice and hints of cherry blossom, finishing with a long, refreshing grapefruit pith edge.
The brand’s Lime Margarita received a Bronze medal for its clarity and precision. Judges highlighted its fresh citrus character and natural expression, noting a refined balance with lemon zest and pith that delivers a dry, sophisticated, and highly drinkable profile.
Luba’s Grapefruit Paloma was awarded a Commended distinction, recognized for its bright and approachable style. Judges described it as vibrant and inviting, with lifted aromas of mint and pink grapefruit and a refreshing, well-balanced finish.
At its core, Luba believes everyone deserves a sophisticated drinking experience, with or without alcohol. These awards reinforce the brand’s commitment to crafting thoughtful, complex beverages designed for both celebration and everyday enjoyment.
Consumers can shop Luba’s award-winning collection at drinkluba.com or use the online store locator to find a retail partner nearby.
Sources consulted (web research):
- Drinkluba site
- Iwsc Spirits Awards 2025 Announced
- Do Awards And Medals Matter
- Pulling The Curtain Back On Spirit
- Awards 130 L.a. Spirits Awards
- Prestigious Spirit Tasting Competitions
Source: BevNET