Zero-Proof Pioneer MEDASE Cocktails Expands National Footprint
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Zero-Proof Pioneer MEDASE Cocktails Expands National Footprint

DISTRYB|Indulge Black History|September 23, 2026

In the rapidly evolving landscape of non-alcoholic beverages, MEDASE Cocktails is not just participating; it's leading the charge, demonstrating remarkable growth through significant retail expansions and a strategic investment. The Los Angeles-based, Black woman-owned brand is making its premium zero-proof cocktails more accessible to consumers nationwide, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the mindful drinking movement.

The past year has seen MEDASE Cocktails achieve impressive milestones in broadening its reach. As of June 1, 2026, all six of MEDASE's meticulously crafted flavors became available through Farm Fresh To You, a premier organic farm-to-door delivery service. This partnership with a platform renowned for connecting consumers with high-quality organic produce and wellness-forward brands underscores MEDASE's commitment to intentional living and elevated, alcohol-free experiences. Co-founder Monica Cornitcher emphasized this alignment, stating that partnering with Farm Fresh To You allows them to reach consumers who prioritize wellness and high-quality ingredients.

Building on this momentum, MEDASE Cocktails announced a rapid retail expansion in August 2026, launching its full line of premium ready-to-drink zero-proof cocktails in 25 Giant Eagle and Market District stores. This expansion extends across key markets in Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, reflecting a growing consumer demand for sophisticated alcohol-free options. The move into these prominent grocery chains represents a significant step in making MEDASE products readily available to a broader audience across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Cornitcher highlighted the brand's intentional and rapid pace, aiming to make MEDASE Cocktails more accessible to consumers seeking an elevated social beverage without alcohol.

This retail growth is further fueled by a strategic investment secured in April 2026, positioning MEDASE Cocktails for substantial future expansion. The capital infusion is set to bolster distribution, operations, and marketing efforts, with ambitious targets for growth in key markets like Chicago, Atlanta, the D.C. area, and Texas. This investment is part of a broader vision that could support over $20 million in annual sales, signaling strong investor confidence in MEDASE's potential. Additionally, the brand is proactively engaging with younger consumers through a student ambassador program and campus pop-ups, recognizing Gen Z's increasing interest in mocktails, with a full rollout planned for Fall 2026.

The journey of MEDASE Cocktails is rooted in a powerful story of friendship, resilience, and a shared vision. Co-founded by Monica Cornitcher and her lifelong friend Inga Dyer—two Howard University alumnae and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. sisters—the brand was born from a personal need. Inga's battle with breast cancer meant alcohol was no longer an option, yet the desire to celebrate life's moments authentically remained. Unable to find sophisticated, alcohol-free alternatives that replicated the complexity and experience of traditional cocktails, they set out to create their own. Working with a Black female chemist, they developed a patented heat formula that delivers the true taste and feel of a classic cocktail without the alcohol.

Following Inga’s passing in January 2024, Monica Cornitcher has courageously carried forward their shared mission, relaunching MEDASE Cocktails in June 2025 with an expanded lineup of six flavors. The brand's name, 'Medase' (pronounced meh-dah-see), means 'thank you' in Asante Twi, reflecting its emphasis on community, gratitude, and shared experiences. This profound emotional depth and purpose-driven approach resonate deeply with consumers seeking mindful and inclusive drinking options.

The brand's commitment to accessibility is also evident in its pricing strategy; the price of a four-pack dropped from $28 to $19.99, making these premium zero-proof cocktails more attainable without compromising quality. This strategic move further positions MEDASE Cocktails as an appealing choice for the growing number of individuals embracing sober-curious lifestyles or simply seeking diverse and delicious non-alcoholic options for any occasion.

As MEDASE Cocktails continues its impressive trajectory, it exemplifies the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within the Black-owned beverage industry. Its success not only expands the market for zero-proof alternatives but also inspires other founders to build brands with authenticity and purpose. For those looking to explore MEDASE's offerings, the brand continues to expand its availability across various online and retail channels. MEDASE Cocktails has been a featured brand on Indulge Black History previously, celebrating its elevation of zero-proof offerings with its Erewhon Market launch, as we reported in “MEDASE Cocktails Elevates Zero-Proof Offerings with Erewhon Market Launch”, and its innovations for a calming “Sleepy Mule” mocktail, detailed in “Craft a Calming “Sleepy Mule” with MEDASE Cocktails' Zero-Proof Innovation”.

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