Dry January is almost over. So, now what? For many, it’s time to decide whether to continue eschewing alcohol or return to drinking, but in a more mindful way.
At least one local beverage maker believes the decision needn’t be black and white.
“I hate when people think they need to cut back on things they love, or have less fun because they’re trying to stick to their diet or get healthier,” says Laura Markewicz, founder of Lotza, a sparkling citrus punch that aims to revolutionize the world of adult beverages. “It shouldn’t have to be one or the other.”
Markewicz describes Lotza as “a modern twist on the classic party punch,” and says that she created it explicitly to raise the bar in the drinking space.
Reimagined for modern consumption, this refreshingly puckery ready-to-drink beverage can be enjoyed on its own or as an easy-to-make highball (with your choice of vodka, gin, rum, tequila or any other spirit). But, unlike other beverages, Lotza is the first to actively support next-day recovery with its blend of powerful liver-supporting ingredients, mood-boosting adaptogens, natural electrolytes and antioxidants.
In other words: it enables you to enjoy alcohol without experiencing all of its negative consequences.
What does Lotza do?
According to the research used to formulate Lotza, only 20% of hangovers are the result of dehydration. Instead, the majority are caused by a build-up of a toxin called acetaldehyde.
To assist the body in ridding itself of acetaldehyde, Lotza contains vine tea, a natural source for dihydromyricetin (DHM), a plant extract that has been used for thousands of years for liver health. DHM increases acetaldehyde metabolism in the body.
To increase its impact, Lotza pairs it with Himalayan sea salt, ginger and adaptogens (including Rhodiola rosea and Schisandra) which balance your mood, reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, boost your mood and fight fatigue.
On top of everything, a can of Lotza has just 40 calories and 6 grams of sugar. So, it's better for you than most beverages of its ilk.
Lotz of Lotza on the way
Markewicz began product development for Lotza in 2023. In 2024, they refined the formula and tested it vigorously across the market to improve its flavor. Beginning this winter, Lotza will be available through a variety of outlets in three flavors: Citrus, Wild Berry and Watermelon.
In the end, Markewicz says, she created Lotza to meet people where they are.
“Lotza is what I wish I had years ago,” says Markewicz “When I was in college, we were always looking for ways to get rid of our hang-overs… taking super B complex, chugging water, Gatorade or Crystal Lite. None of them really worked. Before Lotza, no ‘better-for-you’ option allowed you to enjoy yourself while supporting your body and liver at the same time.
Currently, consumers can find Lotza at Sendik’s in Brookfield or online at getlotza.com (you can take advantage of up to 35% off, plus free merch through the end of January). In addition, thanks to a partnership with Badger Liquor, the beverage will be rolling out across the State, available to bars, restaurants and retailers that would like to carry an alternative for their customers. Lotza will also be available on Amazon beginning this February.
You can also keep up with Lotza by following the brand at @GetLotza on Instagram.
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
