For stylish nights - POLLY launches limited summer edition for alcohol-free Espresso Martini

With the new POLLY Espresso Aperitif, the Cologne-based start-up is interpreting one of the world's most popular cocktails in non-alcoholic form for the first time: the Espresso Martini. Aromatic, stylish and caffeinated - a drink that hits the nerve of the times, a classic without compromise, so to speak. The new edition is the thirteenth product in the range and also the first limited edition from the brand, which only produces non-alcoholic alternatives.

POLLY Espresso Aperitif
© Polly GmbH
18.07.2025
Source:  Company news

Espresso Martini: The cocktail that wakes you up - and has style
Hardly any other drink embodies the balancing act between elegance and energy as perfectly as the Espresso Martini. The cocktail was invented in the 1980s by Dick Bradsell, one of the most influential London bartenders of his time. At the request of a model - rumor has it that it was Naomi Campbell or Kate Moss - for a drink that “wakes you up and delivers”, he mixed vodka, fresh espresso and coffee liqueur - the Espresso Martini was born. Today, according to the latest Drinks International Cocktail Report, it is one of the ten most ordered cocktails worldwide, and even one of the top three in countries such as the UK and Australia. A cocktail for style-conscious gourmets - and thanks to POLLY, finally one for all those who want to consciously enjoy alcohol-free.

Indulgence without regret for the new cocktail culture
“The alcohol-free espresso aperitif is our answer to the desire for more indulgence without regret - in line with our credo Never Miss Out,” says Philip Kahnis, founder and Managing Director of POLLY. "We wanted to create a drink that is just as elegant, alert and exciting as the evening itself. For all those moments when you want to dance along, join in the conversation and clink glasses - without compromising."

The blend of espresso aromas, bitters and slight sweetness ensures a well-balanced taste that is equally convincing in a cocktail. The signature serve is: 5 cl POLLY Espresso Aperitif + 5 cl fresh espresso, shake on ice and strain.

Gen Z drinks differently - and more consciously
According to the latest data from IWSR (International Wines and Spirits Research), one of the most important global market research institutions for the beverage industry, 63% of Gen Z in Japan, 54% in the USA and 44% in Canada do not drink alcohol at all. There is also a clear change in consumer behavior in Europe: The desire for non-alcoholic but stylish alternatives is growing rapidly - and not just among younger target groups.

“Mindful drinking is no longer a trend - it's an attitude,” says Philip Kahnis. "It's not about giving something up, but making a conscious choice. Today, many people choose the alcohol-free option as a matter of course because it supports their lifestyle - be it because of sport, family or simply because they want to be fit the next day."

Study proves it: Alcohol-free spirits are gaining in importance
The trend study by mafowerk confirms this change in German-speaking countries too:

71% of users of non-alcoholic spirits have already consumed them several times
41% reduced their consumption of alcoholic products as a result
Main reasons: Driving, curiosity, alternatives to soft drinks - health only in fourth place

“In the past, alcohol-free was often synonymous with apple spritzer,” says Kahnis. "Today, the standard is high - and rightly so. Guests expect complex, balanced drinks with depth, even non-alcoholic ones. For bars and restaurants, this means that alcohol-free is becoming a fixed part of the menu, not an exception. This is exactly where we come in with POLLY - our products work excellently in sophisticated cocktails. And they also look good on the shelf."

A statement in a glass - for stylish summer nights
POLLY remains true to its style with the first limited edition: sophisticated design, elegant bottle profile and a label that evokes coffee enjoyment and nightlife. “We are huge espresso martini fans ourselves,” says Kahnis. "We wanted a drink that shows: Non-alcoholic can also be exciting, aromatic and grown-up."

The POLLY Espresso Aperitif has been available since July 1 for €14.90 (500 ml). It is sold via the company's own webshop, Amazon and selected specialist retailers and cafés.