Non-alcoholic drinks have stolen the spotlight over the last couple of years, with more non-alcoholic wine, beer and spirits choice than ever. As these drinks get more popular, creators will keep refining their craft, producing even more top-shelf alcohol-free beverages. So if you’re ready to take a break from alcohol, now is a great time to start exploring options.
Non-alcoholic wine is made in the same way as our favourite regular wine, then just before bottling it undergoes a unique process of de-alcoholisation where the alcohol is naturally removed.
When it comes to choosing an alcohol-free wine it is often it's hard to know where to start, especially if you have previously tried the supermarket wines and noticed they tasted like sweet grape juice. Finding a great alc-free wine takes a lot of research, tasting and comparing, and that's exactly what I am here for!
I have found a fantastic selection of wines that actually taste like wine, from dry, full-bodied Chardonnay, to classic French Rosé, Sparkling Italian Prosecco, and all the big jammy reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz.
1. Non-Alcoholic Prosecco
Odd Bird Spumante Veneto Prosecco
If you are passionate about Prosecco, this is the sparkling wine for you. Created by Odd Bird and made in Veneto Italy, this is one of the best tasting and driest non-alcoholic wines on the market, almost indistinguishable to a regular Prosecco.
Traditionally produced using 100% Glera grapes from the finest Italian vineyards, this wine is left to mature for up to one year. It’s then gently de-alcoholised upholding the character, flavour and aromas.
Expect delicious and delicate notes of green apple and grapefruit. This is a crisp sparkling white that is low in calories. It also makes the perfect mixer for a traditional Italian non-alcoholic Aperitif.
2. Non-Alcoholic Sauvignon Blanc
Santa Digna De-alcoholised Sauvignon Blanc
This is one of my personal favourites for Sunday lunch. After a few glasses and some good conversation, we actually found ourselves double-checking the label that it really was alcohol-free.
A choice for the more discerning drinker. This alcohol-free Sauvignon Blanc is from the acclaimed Torres brand which was recently crowned the most 'Admired Wine Brand in the World'. This wine comes from Miguel Torres in Chile’s Valle Central region. Specialising in environmentally friendly viticulture, this wine is 100% Certified Fair Trade by Fair To Life; easy to drink and friendly to the environment.
You can expect notes of tropical fruits, crisp apple and fennel, it’s a wonderful white that plays a buttery punch on your palate, bringing floral freshness with a long finish. The mindful de-alcoholisation method takes only the alcohol away, not the flavour or complexity. Enjoy with fish, chicken and pasta dishes.
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3. Non-Alcoholic Rosé
Natureo Premium Rosé
If you like your wine easy and delicious, try this pretty pink Rose from the Bodegas Torres SA winery. You’ll find this legendary Penedès wine-growing region in Catalonia, outside Barcelona. Made from a combination of Shiraz and Cab Sav grapes, the alcohol is gently removed by their state-of-the-art system.
With each sip you'll taste a fruity flavour with a whisper of red liquorice that lingers on the palate. And with just 30 calories per 100ml, it boasts less than half the calories of your regular white wine. This Rosé pairs perfectly with spicy, Asian and rice-based dishes.
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4. Non-Alcoholic Aussie Shiraz
Newblood Shiraz
If, like me, you're mostly the red wine type, this drop is for you. It is a big bold and ridiculously smooth non-alcoholic Shiraz that's got all the taste and aroma of a big Barossa Shiraz.
The taste? A delicious, well-balanced red which sports a striking colour. Triple distilled retaining that rich, velvety mouthful and oaky flavour with caramel notes and hints of dark chocolate and plum. It pairs well with pasta and spicy dishes.
5. Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine
Thomson & Scott Noughty
Thomson & Scott are passionate about crafting alternatives to alcohol and have attracted a cult-like following as well as global media attention, including the New York Times, and the BBC for their efforts.
Created by Amanda Thomson, who studied wine making in the Champagne region of France, this prestigious sparkling Chardonnay is a consistent best seller. It's also one of the closest in taste, mouthfeel and aroma to a premium French Champagne.
Made from Chardonnay grapes from the Sandy and Calcareous vineyards in southern Spain, this Noughty is pale in colour with an extra dry, crisp taste. It is also Certified Organic, Certified Vegan, Halal and low in sugar.
Choose your drink adventure; one of these five wines is sure to hit the spot and turn you into a devotee.
