BRB, we're too busy doing the perfect cheers with a new fave, Sèchey's Blanc de Blancs. This sparkling non-alcoholic wine is not only a beautiful addition to zero-proof cocktails, but is just as easy to enjoy on its own. It was featured in our July Poolside Service box (which is now sold out!), but you can still find it on the Sèchey website, along with a thoughtfully curated collection of zero-proof wines, spirits, cocktails, functional drinks, supplements, and plenty of inspiration for your next pour or gift.

So, we sat down with Emily Heintz, founder of Sèchey, to chat all about the inspiration behind what she's built, the future of the zero-proof space, the products she's reaching for lately, her relationship with hosting, and why creating beautiful drinks is always about so much more than what's in the glass.

Pour yourself your favorite glass of bubbles, and let's get into it!

For someone discovering Sèchey for the very first time, what's the first thing you'd want them to know?

Sèchey was built on a simple belief: you don't have to choose between drinking alcohol and not drinking at all. Life isn't all-or-nothing, and your beverage choices don't have to be either. Whether you're celebrating with Sechey Blanc de Blanc, taking a night off, or exploring something functional, we want to help you find the right drink for the right moment.

Can you tell us more about what inspired you to create Sèchey?

People are always surprised when I tell them this—I only stopped drinking for about four months.

In 2019, I challenged myself to take a break from alcohol, and during that time I realized how difficult it was to find beautiful, sophisticated alternatives. As someone who had spent more than two decades in retail, I kept thinking, "Why isn't there a place that curates all of this?"

When I started drinking again, something had changed. I wasn't interested in drinking the way I had before. I wanted more choices, more balance, and different options for different occasions. That experience became the foundation for Sèchey. I've always believed alcohol flexibility—not perfection—is where most people are headed.

What excites you most about where the zero-proof space is headed?

We're watching an entirely new category emerge. Consumers aren't asking whether they should drink or not—they're asking what fits this moment. Maybe that's a great bottle of wine one night, a non-alcoholic cocktail the next, or a functional beverage after a workout.

I love seeing innovation that gives people more freedom instead of more rules.

What's one misconception about non-alcoholic beverages that you'd love to leave behind?

That choosing a non-alcoholic drink says something about your identity.

It doesn't.

Sometimes you want a glass of wine. Sometimes you have an early meeting. Sometimes you're training for a race. Sometimes you simply don't feel like drinking. Every one of those choices is valid. Great beverages should meet you where you are.

Has your definition of celebration changed over the years?

Definitely.

When I was younger, celebration often centered around what we were drinking. Today, I think it's much more about who you're with and how present you are. The best celebrations are the ones you remember—and the ones where everyone feels included, regardless of what's in their glass.

What do you think sharing a great drink makes space for?

Connection.

There's something special about everyone having a beautiful drink in their hand. It removes the pressure, starts conversations, and helps people relax into the moment. The drink becomes part of the experience instead of the reason for it.

You've tasted so many incredible products. What makes one really stand out to you?

It's the products that surprise me.

I love when someone takes a sip and immediately says, "Wait...this is really good."

Whether it's a sparkling wine, an aperitif, or a functional beverage, I'm looking for balance, complexity, and something I'd genuinely want to drink again—not because it's alcohol-free, but because it's delicious.

What are three zero-proof products you'll be reaching for all summer long and why?

Our Sèchey Blanc de Blancs is always in my refrigerator. It's crisp, refreshing, and somehow works for everything from brunch to sunset on the porch.

I'm also reaching for a bright citrus aperitif with sparkling water over lots of ice—it feels like summer in a glass.

And I love a functional social tonic for evenings when I want to unwind, wake up feeling great, and still enjoy the ritual of making a beautiful drink.

If someone was building their very first zero-proof bar cart, what are the essentials you'd tell them to have on hand?

Start simple.

A great sparkling wine, one versatile aperitif, quality tonic or sparkling water, fresh citrus, lots of ice, and beautiful glassware.

Presentation matters. A drink always feels a little more special when it's poured with intention.

We're so excited to be featuring your Blanc de Blancs in our Dry July box. How would you describe it to someone who's trying a non-alcoholic sparkling wine for the very first time?

I'd tell them to leave their expectations at the door.

Our Blanc de Blancs is bright, crisp, and refreshing, with notes of green apple, citrus, and fine bubbles. It's dry enough for wine lovers but approachable enough for someone who's completely new to the category.

More than anything, I hope it helps people realize that choosing a non-alcoholic sparkling wine isn't about missing out—it's about discovering something genuinely enjoyable.

If you could pair your Blanc de Blancs with one summer meal or gathering, what would be on the table?

A long lunch outside with people I love.

Fresh oysters, grilled seafood, heirloom tomatoes, burrata, peaches, crusty bread, and a table where nobody is in a hurry to leave.

Those are my favorite summer memories.

What's one small ritual that instantly helps you slow down at the end of the day?

I always pour whatever I'm drinking into a proper wine glass and step outside with my dog, Teddy.

Even if it's only fifteen or twenty minutes, it's my signal that the workday is over. It's a small ritual, but it helps me be present.

When someone walks into your shop, how do you hope they leave feeling?

Curious. Inspired. Seen.

I want people to discover something they didn't know existed. I want them to realize there are incredible options no matter how they're choosing to drink. Most of all, I want them to feel like they belong here.

Finally, what are you saying "cheers" to this summer?

I'm saying cheers to embracing change.

This year has reminded me that growth rarely looks the way we expect it to. Sometimes the best opportunities come from being willing to evolve, stay curious, and trust that what's next can be even better than what came before.

And of course, I'm saying cheers to a summer filled with great conversations, long dinners, and drinks that bring people together.