You’ll find NON’s Head of Beverages Nick Cozens at their Cheltenham headquarters; where flavour innovation is his top priority when he steps inside the manufacturing base that doubles as a cellar door.
For Cozens, it’s all about luring us to the best of non-alcoholic beverages possible– giving us palatable option when we want to flick the off switch on booze.
NON has just collaborated with Australian sustainability chef Matt Stone for the NON PROGRESS Poached Plum & Finger Lime.
“Matt Stone works with native Australian ingredients and it’s something he’s always championed and brings that to the NON drinker now,” explain Nick Cozens.
“Balancing the high tartness and tannin of these super-seasonal ingredients was a challenge, but with Matt’s expertise, we nailed it. Every NON is crafted to pair perfectly with food, and this new flavour embodies Matt’s innovative cooking style,” he says.
Nick Cozens spoke to The Write Drop for our At The Bar series.
MY CITY
Melbourne. Heaps of opportunities for hospitality work and the chance to have a great lifestyle. From incredible food and drink options – ranging from cheap eats to world-class dining – Melbourne has it all. I moved here from a small town in New Zealand back in 2008, and I haven’t looked back.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
Leonardo’s Pizza Palace in Carlton is my go-to for comfort food. Their pepperoni pizza with a glass of chilled red never disappoints. Dine in or grab a takeaway and enjoy it in the park – it’s perfect every time.
FAVOURITE BAR
I can’t pick one spot in Melbourne, there are too many. I want a Guinness at Caretakers Cottage, a Jack & Coke at Spleen, or the Needles & Pins cocktail at The Everleigh. The best drinks are always made by those who truly care about their craft.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
Our NON8 Torched Apple & Oolong. It’s over thought and over complicated – but somehow, it works.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
A Bloody Good Mary at the Marquis of Lorne served with a side of oysters and hot chips. Nothing beats it.
BEST BAR IN THE WORLD
Ahiru Store in Shibuya, Tokyo – it blew my mind. The menu was a chalkboard filled with handwritten Japanese, and the wines were casually lined up against the wall. It was a tiny, unassuming gem that was both authentic and unforgettable. What you see is what you get.
FAVOURITE WINE
A bottle of Gut Oggau with the 26-course Emoji menu at Gaggan in Bangkok back in 2018. We had the Gut Oggau Rot 2016, Blaufränkisch & Zweigelt – truly an unforgettable pairing.
FAVOURITE WINERY
Ruinart in Champagne is a must-visit. Forget the sleepy-town image. Champagne is chaotic and full of energy. If you’re a drink enthusiast, this is a bucket list spot.
NEXT DESTINATION
Canada. I’ve never been, but the food, drinks, and scenery there are calling my name.
Matt Stone’s Restaurants in the NSW Northern Rivers.
You Beauty www.youbeauty2479.com
Ciao Mate www.ciaomate.com.au
The Eltham Hotel www.elthampub.com.au
NON’S LIMITED EDITION DRINK IS HERE: