As more people embrace the trend of mindful drinking, the variety and quality of non-alcoholic beers surpass expectations. Whether you’re participating in Dry January or looking to explore the world of non-alcoholic beverages, we’ve got you covered!
Here are seven non-alcoholic beers perfect for those looking to keep their New Year’s resolution intact or for anyone wishing to sample a refreshing range of beverages with zero booze but full flavor.
The Rise of Flavorful Options
Gone are the days when non-alcoholic beers were considered bland and flavorless. I was delighted to find many options that offered complex and interesting flavors. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts, the variety of non-alcoholic beers is impressive.
Keep in mind: If you must avoid alcohol entirely, make sure to choose beers that are genuinely zero percent alcohol. Non-alcoholic brews can legally contain up to 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) and still be marketed as non-alcoholic.
Run Wild IPA from Athletic Brewing Company
Run Wild from Athletic Brewing Co
Winning the hearts of IPA devotees, the Run Wild IPA from Athletic Brewing is a harmonious balance of malty sweetness and a pronounced hop profile. Its cloudy orange-golden hue and frothy head pave the way for a captivating dance of flavors on your palate—all at a guilt-free 70 calories per can. Embrace the enticing world of non-alcoholic IPAs with Athletic Brewing Run Wild and prepare your senses for a delightful ride.
Enough Said Helles Lager from Two Roots Brewing Co
Two Roots Brewing received a “GOLD” medal at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival for Enough Said … [+]
For the fans of traditional German beers, the Enough Said Helles Lager from Two Roots is sure to tick all the boxes. With its golden hue and bubbly charm, this brew offers a refreshing symphony of lemony sweetness and spicy hops in every sip—a testament to German brewing traditions, now booze-free!
Busch NA Non-Alcoholic Beer
Busch NA contains 60 calories per can.
When craving classic beer taste without alcohol, the Busch NA offers a familiar, refreshing option. With its mild corn and cracker notes harmonizing with subtly bitter hops and a touch of sweetness, this brew promises an enjoyable experience. At just 60 calories per serving, Busch NA is your ticket to a guilt-free beer adventure.
Old Milwaukee Non-Alcoholic Beer
Old Milwaukee: America’s Non-Alcoholic Near Beer
Old Milwaukee Non-Alcoholic Beer brings you an honest, straightforward beer experience. This light, crisp, and lightly carbonated brew is for those who appreciate the fundamentals. Old Milwaukee may eschew the frills, but with impressive head retention and just under 60 calories per serving, it delivers flavor and refreshment.
Heineken 0.0
Heineken’s 0.0 offering is 69 calories per bottle
Introduced in 2017 and brought stateside in 2019, Heineken’s zero-proof beer utilizes a proprietary A-Yeast, contributing to its low-calorie count of 69. Although beers in this category are allowed to contain 0.5% and still be acceptable, it’s worth noting that Heineken 0.0 can have up to 0.03% alcohol by volume, which isn’t entirely zero.
This beer is a pale gold hue with a foamy head that lingers for a while. While it checks off the boxes for low-calorie, I found myself craving more flavors from the brew. On my initial few sips, I detected hints of light fruit and malt, which wasn’t my favorite but could appeal to those searching for a substitute for their regular malt beer.
Grainwave from Ceria Brewing Company
Brainwave is the flagship offering from Ceria Brewing Company.
Grainwave is a witbier-inspired beer, boasting a calorie count of just 77 per can. This brew catches the eye with its light yellow color and unfiltered appearance. The white head is persistent, adding to its appeal. Upon taking a whiff, the delightful aromas of coriander, orange peel, and hints of wheat malt are quick to make themselves known.
The first sip of Grainwave offers a slight upfront sweetness, followed by distinct flavors of coriander and orange peel, culminating in a satisfying lingering citrus finish. As an alcohol-free wheat beer, Grainwave impresses with its flavorful profile. Try adding it with a slice of orange for an added twist, and you’ll be all set to enjoy a refreshing experience.
Guinness 0.0 Draught Non-Alcoholic Beer
Guinness 0.0 has a rich creamy taste similar to the brand’s flagship brew.
Guinness, known for its deceptively light taste, now offers a non-alcoholic version with less than half a percent alcohol by volume. You’ll find the taste of this beverage to be highly reminiscent of its alcoholic predecessor, the Irish stout, although the missing alcohol content can be noticed. For optimal flavor, be sure to serve Guinness 0.0 chilled.
Although Guinness 0.0 may lack the boozy kick of its alcoholic counterpart, its smooth and rich profile is worth savoring. Indulge in the distinct character of your favorite Irish stout while staying sober, and enjoy the best flavors possible by ensuring your drink is properly chilled.
Budweiser Zero
Budweiser Zero is the macro brand’s alcohol free offering
Budweiser Zero, bearing the heritage of the iconic Bud, steps up to meet expectations with its sunny hue and moderate head. It brings a decent blend of sweet malt and a touch of hops, making it a solid choice for macro beer enthusiasts. Though it might lack complexity for the more discerning palates, it offers a decent taste profile without the calorie count of regular beer.
These alcohol-free brews demonstrate non-alcoholic beers’ evolution from mere afterthoughts to beverage options that command respect and appreciation. Whether you’re aiming for a Dry January, reducing alcohol intake, or wish to venture into the exciting realm of non-alcoholic beers, these options are just the ticket to a satisfying, alcohol-free beer journey.