How does one refuse alcohol and other unwanted beverages politely?
When asked what you want to drink, honestly answer whatever you desire. If you say tonic and someone insists you have gin and tonic, politely say that you prefer it without alcohol. Fortunately in today’s society it is very accepted and wise not to drink alcohol, whereas years ago guests were pressured to drink alcoholic beverages. Today we do have healthy choices, from food to beverages to lifestyles. A smart host will be gracious to comply. In another situation, if wines are pre-poured at the dinner table, they do not have to be consumed. And if a toast is made, it is the gesture of raising the glass that is important, not the consumption of the beverage.
