There’s an important detail we all have had to deal with sooner or later: should teetotalers toast as well? Do teetotalers take part in the toast? These questions open up scenarios related to wine etiquette, good manners and small cultural curiosities that deserve to be explored. We’ll do so in this article, providing a definitive answer to these questions.

Should teetotalers take part in the toast? What etiquette says

The answer to the question is:

Yes, teetotalers should also take part in the toast.

According to modern etiquette, it is appropriate for teetotalers to take part in the toast, but, as we will see, in a very specific way… This does not mean they have to drink, nor adopt behaviors that go against their personal choices: it is rather about participating in the ritual.

Etiquette recognizes that the toast is, above all, a social act and, as such, should be inclusive, involving even those who choose not to consume alcohol. Let’s take a closer look at why teetotalers should toast and how they can do it.

Why should teetotalers also take part in the toast?

Teetotalers should join the toast because a toast is much more than a simple gesture linked to alcohol consumption: it is a social ritual with symbolic value. So, here’s why, according to modern etiquette, even teetotalers should take part in the toast:

• to share the moment

A toast is a small collective ritual, a moment of connection and togetherness that goes beyond the simple act of raising a glass. It is the instant when everyone pauses, shares the same intention and joins in a common wish. Participating means feeling part of the group, immersing yourself in the celebratory atmosphere and contributing to the positive energy that this gesture is meant to express.

• for the symbolic value of the ritual

A toast is less about what is being drunk and more about what is being expressed: sincere wishes, the celebration of a special moment, shared gratitude. Even those who do not consume alcohol can take part in this gesture to share the meaning and symbolic intent of the ritual.

• out of respect for those who toast

Raising your glass is a gesture of courtesy and respect toward the other diners and the person who initiated the toast. It is a small symbolic act that shows attentiveness, participation and good manners, helping to make the moment elegant and harmonious for everyone.

• to avoid isolating oneself from the social context

Not taking part in the gesture can give a sense of detachment, as if one wanted to remain outside the moment of sharing, missing the opportunity to join others and engage in the collective atmosphere.

• to maintain the elegance of the moment

Etiquette always prioritizes harmony and the smooth flow of any social gathering. Taking part in the toast helps preserve the rhythm of the evening, avoiding unnecessary pauses or awkwardness. This small gesture helps maintain the elegant and convivial tone of the occasion, reinforces the sense of inclusion and makes the shared experience more enjoyable for everyone.

What should teetotalers toast with?

To answer this question, it’s useful to clarify that, in some situations, such as for religious, health, or age-related reasons, teetotalers can toast with non-alcoholic beverages, without feeling excluded from the ritual moment.

For those who are teetotalers purely by personal choice (and not for religious or health reasons, and of legal age to consume alcohol), modern etiquette suggests a different approach: still take part in the toast by accepting the glass of wine, but limit yourself to the symbolic gesture, without feeling obliged to drink. In this way, you share the moment of conviviality while still respecting your own beliefs.

In the following paragraphs, we will see how to do this correctly, with small tips that help maintain elegance, respect and inclusivity, so that the toast remains a pleasant gesture for everyone.

How should teetotalers toast?

As mentioned, taking part in the toast does not necessarily mean drinking alcohol. Modern etiquette offers several elegant and respectful alternatives, specifically designed for those who do not consume alcoholic beverages, allowing everyone to share the symbolic gesture without compromising their personal choices.

1. For those who do not consume alcohol for religious, health or age-related reasons

In these cases, toasting with a non-alcoholic beverage can follow the same guidelines as a traditional wine toast, ensuring elegance and participation:

• Raise your glass, whatever beverage you choose, to take part in the symbolic gesture.

• Maintain eye contact with those you are toasting, as a sign of respect and connection.

• Bring your glass close to the others without touching them, either immediately after you have spoken the toast or right after the toast has been said.

• Participate naturally, showing engagement and spontaneity.

• Drink the non-alcoholic beverage, if you wish, to complete the gesture.

2. For other teetotalers who choose to accept the glass of wine anyway

Even those who decide to take the glass can toast without drinking the wine. Just follow a few simple guidelines:

• Raise the glass.

• Maintain eye contact during the toast as a sign of attention toward others.

• Bring the glass close to the others without touching them, immediately after the toast has been said.

• Participate naturally, without making your choice feel burdensome.

• Bring the glass to your lips without drinking the wine.

• Place the glass back on the table.

On this last point, wine etiquette is much more flexible: some people choose to just wet their lips with the wine, while others, for the occasion, may make an exception and sip the drink. It all depends on individual sensitivity and choices: there are no obligations or pressures.

Finally, another important tip concerns communication with the person pouring the wine. In family or close-friend settings, where everyone knows each other well, it is usually not necessary to inform the host of your choice not to drink alcohol. In more formal contexts, however, it can be helpful to discreetly let them know, to avoid misunderstandings. It is not a requirement, but a small courtesy that helps others understand the situation and contributes to maintaining a pleasant and respectful atmosphere for everyone.