Non-alcoholic wine hasn’t always had the best reputation. For a long time, most people just thought of it as overpriced grape juice that didn’t taste much like wine at all. That first sip? Usually disappointing. A lot of folks figured that taking out the alcohol also stripped away all the interesting stuff, complexity, structure, and any real sense of character.
But, honestly, that old image doesn’t hold up anymore.
Winemakers have come a long way. The latest dealcoholisation techniques keep all those subtle aromas, the acidity, and that distinct varietal personality. These days, they start with a proper wine, let it ferment fully, and only then gently remove the alcohol. The difference is huge. Even seasoned wine drinkers sometimes can’t believe how close these bottles come to the real thing.
But here’s the kicker: non-alcoholic wine is picky about how you treat it. Serve it too warm, use the wrong glass, or skip letting it breathe, and the flavours fall flat, or the sweetness gets out of hand. It’s easy to mess up. Getting the details right really matters.
So, instead of just tossing out a list of bottles to try, this guide takes you through what actually makes non-alcoholic wine work, how to serve it, how to enjoy it, and how to get the most out of every glass. But before we dive in, let’s get the basics sorted.
What is a Non-Alcoholic Wine?
Non-alcoholic wine is simply wine without alcohol and usually at 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume) or less. Many Aussies today are seeking healthier lifestyles, which has led to a shift in drinking habits. And because of this, non-alcoholic wines have become increasingly popular. You can even enjoy non-alcoholic wines at your next outdoor picnic and not have to catch an Uber home.
How is Non-Alcoholic Wine Made?
There are three main ways to remove alcohol from wine. First is the Vacuum Distillation method, which is the process of gently warming the wine to a low temperature in an airless vacuum. The second is the Spinning Cone method, which is an advanced form of vacuum distillation where rapidly spinning cones are added to provide a gentle but speedy result. The third is Reverse Osmosis (or Cold Filtration), which involves filtering out the alcohol.
No matter which technique a winemaker uses to remove alcohol from wine, one thing that remains is that the process of de-alcoholising wines always calls for the wine to be made the same way as an alcoholic wine would. This means the same varietal grapes are used, so whatever non-alcoholic wine is bottled at the end of the day, will share the same flavours, colours and aromas as its alcoholic cousin.
Best Non-Alcoholic Wines for Every Taste
Choosing a good non-alc wine can only be determined by understanding how it tastes, not how it’s marketed. Some bottles shine with crisp acidity, others offer soft fruit and body, while a few deliver structure similar to traditional reds. This section groups the best non-alcoholic wines by flavour profile, making it easier to find a bottle that matches your palate and vibes, delivering a true wine-like experience.
For the "Big Red" Drinker
1. Next Destination Barossa Valley Shiraz
This Next Destination Barossa Valley Shiraz is a non-alcoholic red wine that comes from Barossa Valley, South Australia, and if it’s one thing the Barossa Valley is famous for, it’s producing some of the best shiraz wines in the world. Body & Soul even compared it as the perfect alternative, and maybe even better, to the world-renowned Penfolds Bin 389.
The taste: This non-alcoholic shiraz has notes of dark chocolate, ripe berries and new French oak while offering a smooth and complex finish.
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly and also low in sugar. Health‑conscious sippers can shortlist options from our low sugar wine range.
What customers are saying “Wow, the best non-alcohol red wine so far. This is one of the only alcohol-free red wines that doesn’t taste like grape juice. It is complex and dry, with a big round Barossa Valley taste.”
[product name="next-destination-non-alcoholic-barossa-valley-shiraz"]
2. Two Hoots Cabernet Sauvignon
If you’re a fan of big tannins and looking for one of the best-tasting non-alcoholic red wines, then you need to add Two Hoots Cabernet Sauvignon to your list. Two Hoots grows its Cabernet Sauvignon grapes in the coastal region of South Africa, which is known for producing some of the world’s best wines.
The taste: This non-alcoholic cabernet sauvignon has notes of sun-ripened cherries, unsweetened dark chocolate and plum. It is robust and dry, rich in tannins and has a great mouthfeel.
Worth noting: low in sugar and calories.
What customers are saying: “Best non-alcoholic red of all I have tried so far. For me to actually order a case of six says a lot, so do give this one a try.”
[product name="two-hoots-non-alc-cabernet-sauvignon"]
For the Crisp White Lover
3. Two Hoots Chenin Blanc
The Two Hoots Chenin Blanc is a French-style, full-bodied, dry white wine produced in the low, coastal regions of South Africa that's renowned for making some of the top white wines in the world. If you’re in the market for a non-alcoholic white wine, there’s without no second thoughts you’ve got to give this one a try!
The taste: This dry non-alcoholic white wine has balanced acidity, notes of crisp apple and pear and a well-rounded finish.
Worth noting: Low in sugar and calories.
What customers are saying: “Amazing. I just received this today, poured myself a glass this evening, and honestly had to go back and check the bottle was actually alcohol-free. Fruity and full of flavour, they’ve nailed it.”
[product name="two-hoots-non-alcoholic-wine-chenin-blanc"]
4. Next Destination McLaren Vale Chardonnay
Many of my customers have shared that the Next Destination McLaren Vale Chardonnay is one of their favourite non-alcoholic white wines to fill their glasses on a hot summer’s day. Produced from Chardonnay that’s been grown in the iconic McLaren Vale wine region of South Australia, this non-alcoholic white wine has been aged for 4 years before having its alcohol removed.
The taste: Featuring delicate hints of oak, citrus blossom and honeysuckle. It has a dry profile, buttery mouthfeel and oak tannins to give it a long finish.
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly and low in sugar and calories.
What customers are saying:“This is a fantastic bottle of wine. I loved it with my dinner, it was lovely and refreshing. Highly recommended. I can’t wait for the summer months to enjoy this ice cold.”
[product name="next-destination-mclaren-vale-non-alcoholic-chardonnay"]
5. Plus & Minus Pinot Grigio
For the sophisticated Pinot Grigio lovers, this Plus & Minus bottle is one of the most-loved drops here at Sans Drinks. This Italian-style white wine alternative is a medium-bodied and fruit-forward wine that is crafted in South Australia, containing no alcohol and added antioxidant benefits.
The taste: Expect crisp and fruity flavours of apple, pear and citrus
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly with added antioxidants.
What customers are saying:“ First timer, I had this last night with my dinner and comparing this to 1920’s, I enjoyed this more medium bodied wine. As a first timer I can tell the difference of the two, 1920’s is lighter easy to drink. Plus and minus on the other hand a medium bodied white wine that really goes well what I ate for dinner last night (which is the same as the other noght when I have the 1920’s pinot grigio) I love them birh. I definitely recommend both. Thanks.
[product name="plus-minus-pinot-grigio-2020"]
6. Señorío de la Tautila Blanco
Señorío de la Tautila Blanco is a crisp, authentic Spanish white wine crafted from Airén grapes and gently de-alcoholised to retain its natural aromas and structure.
The taste: Citrus-forward character with bright, fragrant aromas and a lively palate. Expect notes of lemon, green apple and a pleasant hint of bitterness on the finish.
Worth noting: Produced using traditional vacuum distillation at low temperature to preserve the wine’s integrity and flavour while removing alcohol and calories.
What customers are saying:“Was looking for a nice non-alc white for such a long and this is the one!! this bottle has become my fave white and have been enjoying very much. Will keep buying this one for sure”
Counting kilojoules? Start with our low-calorie wine picks!
[product name="senorio-de-la-tautila-blanco"]
For the Celebratory Toasts
7. Thomson & Scott Noughty Sparkling Rosé
This sparkling rosé wine from the world-famous Thompson & Scott offers a bouquet of aromas and flavours of fresh berries with a gorgeous pink hue and a refreshing fizz. Featured in BBC Foods, this alc-free sparkling wine blends traditional French wine-making skills that deliver the exact taste of a real Champagne.
The taste: A dry, refreshing flavour profile with notes of raspberries and strawberries, along with aromas of rose petals. It’s crisp, elegant and delicious.
Worth noting: Low in calories, certified organic and vegan-friendly.
What customers are saying: “Must have sparkling- I love this! Probably my favourite zero sparkling. Always like to have a bottle on hand for more special occasions.”
[product name="thomson-scott-noughty-rose"]
8. Next Destination Langhorne Creek Blanc de Blanc
The Next Destination Langhorne Creek Blanc de Blanc is one of the best non-alcoholic sparkling wines on the market and by far one of the best champagne alternatives out there. Made from premium Langhorne Creek wine, this alcohol-free sparkling wine has all the flavours of the vintage with fine bubbles, minus any of the party hangovers.
If you love bubbles, explore handpicked non alcoholic sparkling wine for food-friendly fizz.
The taste: A dry profile, aromas of lemon curd and citrus, and a crisp palate with flavours of toasted brioche, fresh blossom and green apple. Crisp and bright styles feature in our non alcoholic white wine selection.
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly, low in sugar and low in calories.
What customers are saying: “Almost too good to be true. I cannot believe how good this one is. You would not believe that this is an alcohol-free sparkling wine.”
[product name="next-destination-2021-langhorne-creek-blanc-de-blanc"]
9. Pernelle Cuvée Genesis
Pernelle Cuvée Genesis is the world’s first truly premium de-alcoholised sparkling wine delivering the sophistication, complexity and celebration of fine champagne without the alcohol. Created through an extraordinary collaboration between Méthode Traditionnelle winemakers and champagne experts, it’s a masterclass in craftsmanship and flavour.
The taste: A light golden straw hue with vibrant effervescence and a creamy mousse. Expect aromas of citrus and lemon curd, followed by notes of stone fruit and gentle brioche complexity. On the palate, it’s crisp, refined and beautifully balanced with a persistent, invigorating finish.
Worth noting: Crafted using the Méthode Moderne, a unique technique combining Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes.
What customers are saying: “This bubbly is amazing! It feels like a real treat to be savoured as a celebration or just a special reward and makes going alcohol free a complete breeze. This is, by far, the best zero sparkling wine I have ever tasted, I would wholeheartedly recommend it.”
Awards & accolades: Bronze Medal, Alcohol Free Awards 2024
[product name="pernelle-cuvee-genesis"]
10. Vinada Sparkling Tempranillo Rosé
Made in the Spanish wine region of La Mancha with Tempranillo grapes, this sparkling rosé is both fun and sophisticated, offering a beautiful balance of freshness and flavour.
The taste: Bursting with notes of strawberry, redcurrant and raspberry. It has a dry, fruity profile, fine bubbles and a refreshing finish, all complemented by well-balanced acidity and subtle tannins.
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly and low in calories, ideal for anyone seeking a stylish, lighter alternative.
What customers are saying: “This sparkling rose is light on the palate and has a refreshing zing to it. It reminds me of a Spanish Cava that I have had previously and would happily have this with a potatas bravis dish. Certainly on my list of drinks to buy again!
[product name="vinada-sparkling-rose"]
Sommelier Secrets: How to Make Non-Alcoholic Wine Taste Better
A lot of people blame non-alcoholic wine for being bland or off, but honestly, most of the time it’s just how they’re serving it. Without alcohol, these wines act differently in the glass, so if you treat them like regular wine, you’ll probably be disappointed. Luckily, a few simple tricks can totally change how they taste and feel.
The “Chill Hack”: Why Non-Alcoholic Reds Taste Better Cool
Alcohol gives wine that cosy warmth and a certain grip. Take that away, and if you serve a non-alcoholic red at room temperature, it ends up tasting kind of flat or even like overcooked fruit. Cool it down a bit, say to 12–14°C, and suddenly the wine feels deep, the acidity pops, and you get a bit of that signature red wine bite back.
Should You Decant Non-Alcoholic Wine? (The Reduction Rule)
When winemakers remove alcohol, sometimes weird, sulfur-y smells get trapped in the bottle. That’s why freshly opened non-alcoholic wine can smell a little off. Just pour it into a decanter (or even a pitcher), leave it for 10–15 minutes, and those nuanced notes fade away. What’s left? More fruit, more freshness, and a much better first sip.
Glassware Matters: Why Oversized Glasses Don’t Work
Big red wine glasses are made to mellow out strong, boozy wines. Non-alcoholic wine doesn’t need that, it actually loses what little aroma it has in those oversized goblets. Use a smaller, white-wine-style glass instead. It concentrates the aroma, making the wine smell and taste brighter.
Why Non-Alcoholic Wines Aren’t Always “Dry”
No alcohol means less weight and texture, so winemakers often leave a touch of sugar in the wine. It’s not about making it sweet, it’s about giving the wine some body and structure. That little bit of sugar helps the wine feel complete, not watery or thin. But as the industry allows much broader choices, you can actually enjoy low to zero sugar wines that are not just dry but also gives that lingering finish like an alcoholic one.
The 48-Hour Rule: Storing Your Open Bottles
-
Alcohol acts as a preservative: Non-alcoholic wine lacks this protection, making it far more sensitive to air and bacteria once opened.
-
Refrigerate immediately after pouring: Leaving a bottle at room temperature accelerates oxidation and flavour loss.
-
Seal it tightly: Use the original cork or a wine stopper to limit oxygen exposure.
-
Consume within 48–72 hours: Beyond this window, flavours fade quickly, and sour notes begin to dominate.
Treat it like a perishable product: Think less “cellar wine” and more “fresh beverage”, once opened, freshness matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do non-alcoholic wines compare to traditional wines in flavour?
Modern non-alcoholic wines are crafted to retain the same aromas, body, and complexity as regular wines. You can expect fruity notes, tannins, and a balanced acidity similar to their alcoholic counterparts.
2. What are the most common grape varieties used in non-alcoholic wines?
Popular varieties include Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. Non-alcoholic wines aim to mimic the taste profile of these classic wines.
3. Can non-alcoholic wines be aged like regular wines?
No, most non-alcoholic wines are best enjoyed within a year or two of bottling. Since the alcohol has been removed, their structure and preservation differ from traditional wines.
4. How do non-alcoholic sparkling wines get their bubbles?
Bubbles are usually created during the initial fermentation process before alcohol removal or added naturally afterwards. This gives sparkling non-alcoholic wines a crisp, fizzy experience.
5. Are non-alcoholic wines lower in sugar and calories?
Yes. Many premium non-alcoholic wines are specifically crafted to be low in sugar and calories, making them suitable for health-conscious drinkers.
Find your favourite non-alcoholic wine
Finding a non-alcoholic wine that actually tastes like wine isn’t just about the bottle you pick. It’s also about how you serve it. Get the temperature right, grab the right glass, and use a few tricks from the pros, and suddenly, the flavours come together, the aromas burst, and what’s in your glass feels like real wine, not just fancy grape juice.
This guide takes out the guesswork. It doesn’t just point you to the best non-alcoholic wines; it shows you how to enjoy them so they really shine. When you serve them right, these wines bring balance, depth, and real pleasure.
Curious to try the Chill Hack yourself? Check out the bestselling non-alcoholic drinks collection and see how a few simple tweaks can totally transform your next glass.
If you want to find out more about our non-alcoholic wines, sign up for my newsletter and don’t forget to snap a picture and tag us on Instagram when you’ve found your new favourite non-alcoholic drop!
Non-alcoholic wine hasn’t always had the best reputation. For a long time, most people just thought of it as overpriced grape juice that didn’t taste much like wine at all. That first sip? Usually disappointing. A lot of folks figured that taking out the alcohol also stripped away all the interesting stuff, complexity, structure, and any real sense of character.
But, honestly, that old image doesn’t hold up anymore.
Winemakers have come a long way. The latest dealcoholisation techniques keep all those subtle aromas, the acidity, and that distinct varietal personality. These days, they start with a proper wine, let it ferment fully, and only then gently remove the alcohol. The difference is huge. Even seasoned wine drinkers sometimes can’t believe how close these bottles come to the real thing.
But here’s the kicker: non-alcoholic wine is picky about how you treat it. Serve it too warm, use the wrong glass, or skip letting it breathe, and the flavours fall flat, or the sweetness gets out of hand. It’s easy to mess up. Getting the details right really matters.
So, instead of just tossing out a list of bottles to try, this guide takes you through what actually makes non-alcoholic wine work, how to serve it, how to enjoy it, and how to get the most out of every glass. But before we dive in, let’s get the basics sorted.
What is a Non-Alcoholic Wine?
Non-alcoholic wine is simply wine without alcohol and usually at 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume) or less. Many Aussies today are seeking healthier lifestyles, which has led to a shift in drinking habits. And because of this, non-alcoholic wines have become increasingly popular. You can even enjoy non-alcoholic wines at your next outdoor picnic and not have to catch an Uber home.
How is Non-Alcoholic Wine Made?
There are three main ways to remove alcohol from wine. First is the Vacuum Distillation method, which is the process of gently warming the wine to a low temperature in an airless vacuum. The second is the Spinning Cone method, which is an advanced form of vacuum distillation where rapidly spinning cones are added to provide a gentle but speedy result. The third is Reverse Osmosis (or Cold Filtration), which involves filtering out the alcohol.
No matter which technique a winemaker uses to remove alcohol from wine, one thing that remains is that the process of de-alcoholising wines always calls for the wine to be made the same way as an alcoholic wine would. This means the same varietal grapes are used, so whatever non-alcoholic wine is bottled at the end of the day, will share the same flavours, colours and aromas as its alcoholic cousin.
Best Non-Alcoholic Wines for Every Taste
Choosing a good non-alc wine can only be determined by understanding how it tastes, not how it’s marketed. Some bottles shine with crisp acidity, others offer soft fruit and body, while a few deliver structure similar to traditional reds. This section groups the best non-alcoholic wines by flavour profile, making it easier to find a bottle that matches your palate and vibes, delivering a true wine-like experience.
For the "Big Red" Drinker
1. Next Destination Barossa Valley Shiraz
This Next Destination Barossa Valley Shiraz is a non-alcoholic red wine that comes from Barossa Valley, South Australia, and if it’s one thing the Barossa Valley is famous for, it’s producing some of the best shiraz wines in the world. Body & Soul even compared it as the perfect alternative, and maybe even better, to the world-renowned Penfolds Bin 389.
The taste: This non-alcoholic shiraz has notes of dark chocolate, ripe berries and new French oak while offering a smooth and complex finish.
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly and also low in sugar. Health‑conscious sippers can shortlist options from our low sugar wine range.
What customers are saying “Wow, the best non-alcohol red wine so far. This is one of the only alcohol-free red wines that doesn’t taste like grape juice. It is complex and dry, with a big round Barossa Valley taste.”
2. Two Hoots Cabernet Sauvignon
If you’re a fan of big tannins and looking for one of the best-tasting non-alcoholic red wines, then you need to add Two Hoots Cabernet Sauvignon to your list. Two Hoots grows its Cabernet Sauvignon grapes in the coastal region of South Africa, which is known for producing some of the world’s best wines.
The taste: This non-alcoholic cabernet sauvignon has notes of sun-ripened cherries, unsweetened dark chocolate and plum. It is robust and dry, rich in tannins and has a great mouthfeel.
Worth noting: low in sugar and calories.
What customers are saying: “Best non-alcoholic red of all I have tried so far. For me to actually order a case of six says a lot, so do give this one a try.”
For the Crisp White Lover
3. Two Hoots Chenin Blanc
The Two Hoots Chenin Blanc is a French-style, full-bodied, dry white wine produced in the low, coastal regions of South Africa that's renowned for making some of the top white wines in the world. If you’re in the market for a non-alcoholic white wine, there’s without no second thoughts you’ve got to give this one a try!
The taste: This dry non-alcoholic white wine has balanced acidity, notes of crisp apple and pear and a well-rounded finish.
Worth noting: Low in sugar and calories.
What customers are saying: “Amazing. I just received this today, poured myself a glass this evening, and honestly had to go back and check the bottle was actually alcohol-free. Fruity and full of flavour, they’ve nailed it.”
4. Next Destination McLaren Vale Chardonnay
Many of my customers have shared that the Next Destination McLaren Vale Chardonnay is one of their favourite non-alcoholic white wines to fill their glasses on a hot summer’s day. Produced from Chardonnay that’s been grown in the iconic McLaren Vale wine region of South Australia, this non-alcoholic white wine has been aged for 4 years before having its alcohol removed.
The taste: Featuring delicate hints of oak, citrus blossom and honeysuckle. It has a dry profile, buttery mouthfeel and oak tannins to give it a long finish.
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly and low in sugar and calories.
What customers are saying:“This is a fantastic bottle of wine. I loved it with my dinner, it was lovely and refreshing. Highly recommended. I can’t wait for the summer months to enjoy this ice cold.”
5. Plus & Minus Pinot Grigio
For the sophisticated Pinot Grigio lovers, this Plus & Minus bottle is one of the most-loved drops here at Sans Drinks. This Italian-style white wine alternative is a medium-bodied and fruit-forward wine that is crafted in South Australia, containing no alcohol and added antioxidant benefits.
The taste: Expect crisp and fruity flavours of apple, pear and citrus
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly with added antioxidants.
What customers are saying:“ First timer, I had this last night with my dinner and comparing this to 1920’s, I enjoyed this more medium bodied wine. As a first timer I can tell the difference of the two, 1920’s is lighter easy to drink. Plus and minus on the other hand a medium bodied white wine that really goes well what I ate for dinner last night (which is the same as the other noght when I have the 1920’s pinot grigio) I love them birh. I definitely recommend both. Thanks.
6. Señorío de la Tautila Blanco
Señorío de la Tautila Blanco is a crisp, authentic Spanish white wine crafted from Airén grapes and gently de-alcoholised to retain its natural aromas and structure.
The taste: Citrus-forward character with bright, fragrant aromas and a lively palate. Expect notes of lemon, green apple and a pleasant hint of bitterness on the finish.
Worth noting: Produced using traditional vacuum distillation at low temperature to preserve the wine’s integrity and flavour while removing alcohol and calories.
What customers are saying:“Was looking for a nice non-alc white for such a long and this is the one!! this bottle has become my fave white and have been enjoying very much. Will keep buying this one for sure”
Counting kilojoules? Start with our low-calorie wine picks!
For the Celebratory Toasts
7. Thomson & Scott Noughty Sparkling Rosé
This sparkling rosé wine from the world-famous Thompson & Scott offers a bouquet of aromas and flavours of fresh berries with a gorgeous pink hue and a refreshing fizz. Featured in BBC Foods, this alc-free sparkling wine blends traditional French wine-making skills that deliver the exact taste of a real Champagne.
The taste: A dry, refreshing flavour profile with notes of raspberries and strawberries, along with aromas of rose petals. It’s crisp, elegant and delicious.
Worth noting: Low in calories, certified organic and vegan-friendly.
What customers are saying: “Must have sparkling- I love this! Probably my favourite zero sparkling. Always like to have a bottle on hand for more special occasions.”
8. Next Destination Langhorne Creek Blanc de Blanc
The Next Destination Langhorne Creek Blanc de Blanc is one of the best non-alcoholic sparkling wines on the market and by far one of the best champagne alternatives out there. Made from premium Langhorne Creek wine, this alcohol-free sparkling wine has all the flavours of the vintage with fine bubbles, minus any of the party hangovers.
If you love bubbles, explore handpicked non alcoholic sparkling wine for food-friendly fizz.
The taste: A dry profile, aromas of lemon curd and citrus, and a crisp palate with flavours of toasted brioche, fresh blossom and green apple. Crisp and bright styles feature in our non alcoholic white wine selection.
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly, low in sugar and low in calories.
What customers are saying: “Almost too good to be true. I cannot believe how good this one is. You would not believe that this is an alcohol-free sparkling wine.”
9. Pernelle Cuvée Genesis
Pernelle Cuvée Genesis is the world’s first truly premium de-alcoholised sparkling wine delivering the sophistication, complexity and celebration of fine champagne without the alcohol. Created through an extraordinary collaboration between Méthode Traditionnelle winemakers and champagne experts, it’s a masterclass in craftsmanship and flavour.
The taste: A light golden straw hue with vibrant effervescence and a creamy mousse. Expect aromas of citrus and lemon curd, followed by notes of stone fruit and gentle brioche complexity. On the palate, it’s crisp, refined and beautifully balanced with a persistent, invigorating finish.
Worth noting: Crafted using the Méthode Moderne, a unique technique combining Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes.
What customers are saying: “This bubbly is amazing! It feels like a real treat to be savoured as a celebration or just a special reward and makes going alcohol free a complete breeze. This is, by far, the best zero sparkling wine I have ever tasted, I would wholeheartedly recommend it.”
Awards & accolades: Bronze Medal, Alcohol Free Awards 2024
10. Vinada Sparkling Tempranillo Rosé
Made in the Spanish wine region of La Mancha with Tempranillo grapes, this sparkling rosé is both fun and sophisticated, offering a beautiful balance of freshness and flavour.
The taste: Bursting with notes of strawberry, redcurrant and raspberry. It has a dry, fruity profile, fine bubbles and a refreshing finish, all complemented by well-balanced acidity and subtle tannins.
Worth noting: Vegan-friendly and low in calories, ideal for anyone seeking a stylish, lighter alternative.
What customers are saying: “This sparkling rose is light on the palate and has a refreshing zing to it. It reminds me of a Spanish Cava that I have had previously and would happily have this with a potatas bravis dish. Certainly on my list of drinks to buy again!
Sommelier Secrets: How to Make Non-Alcoholic Wine Taste Better
A lot of people blame non-alcoholic wine for being bland or off, but honestly, most of the time it’s just how they’re serving it. Without alcohol, these wines act differently in the glass, so if you treat them like regular wine, you’ll probably be disappointed. Luckily, a few simple tricks can totally change how they taste and feel.
The “Chill Hack”: Why Non-Alcoholic Reds Taste Better Cool
Alcohol gives wine that cosy warmth and a certain grip. Take that away, and if you serve a non-alcoholic red at room temperature, it ends up tasting kind of flat or even like overcooked fruit. Cool it down a bit, say to 12–14°C, and suddenly the wine feels deep, the acidity pops, and you get a bit of that signature red wine bite back.
Should You Decant Non-Alcoholic Wine? (The Reduction Rule)
When winemakers remove alcohol, sometimes weird, sulfur-y smells get trapped in the bottle. That’s why freshly opened non-alcoholic wine can smell a little off. Just pour it into a decanter (or even a pitcher), leave it for 10–15 minutes, and those nuanced notes fade away. What’s left? More fruit, more freshness, and a much better first sip.
Glassware Matters: Why Oversized Glasses Don’t Work
Big red wine glasses are made to mellow out strong, boozy wines. Non-alcoholic wine doesn’t need that, it actually loses what little aroma it has in those oversized goblets. Use a smaller, white-wine-style glass instead. It concentrates the aroma, making the wine smell and taste brighter.
Why Non-Alcoholic Wines Aren’t Always “Dry”
No alcohol means less weight and texture, so winemakers often leave a touch of sugar in the wine. It’s not about making it sweet, it’s about giving the wine some body and structure. That little bit of sugar helps the wine feel complete, not watery or thin. But as the industry allows much broader choices, you can actually enjoy low to zero sugar wines that are not just dry but also gives that lingering finish like an alcoholic one.
The 48-Hour Rule: Storing Your Open Bottles
-
Alcohol acts as a preservative: Non-alcoholic wine lacks this protection, making it far more sensitive to air and bacteria once opened.
-
Refrigerate immediately after pouring: Leaving a bottle at room temperature accelerates oxidation and flavour loss.
-
Seal it tightly: Use the original cork or a wine stopper to limit oxygen exposure.
-
Consume within 48–72 hours: Beyond this window, flavours fade quickly, and sour notes begin to dominate.
Treat it like a perishable product: Think less “cellar wine” and more “fresh beverage”, once opened, freshness matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do non-alcoholic wines compare to traditional wines in flavour?
Modern non-alcoholic wines are crafted to retain the same aromas, body, and complexity as regular wines. You can expect fruity notes, tannins, and a balanced acidity similar to their alcoholic counterparts.
2. What are the most common grape varieties used in non-alcoholic wines?
Popular varieties include Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. Non-alcoholic wines aim to mimic the taste profile of these classic wines.
3. Can non-alcoholic wines be aged like regular wines?
No, most non-alcoholic wines are best enjoyed within a year or two of bottling. Since the alcohol has been removed, their structure and preservation differ from traditional wines.
4. How do non-alcoholic sparkling wines get their bubbles?
Bubbles are usually created during the initial fermentation process before alcohol removal or added naturally afterwards. This gives sparkling non-alcoholic wines a crisp, fizzy experience.
5. Are non-alcoholic wines lower in sugar and calories?
Yes. Many premium non-alcoholic wines are specifically crafted to be low in sugar and calories, making them suitable for health-conscious drinkers.
Find your favourite non-alcoholic wine
Finding a non-alcoholic wine that actually tastes like wine isn’t just about the bottle you pick. It’s also about how you serve it. Get the temperature right, grab the right glass, and use a few tricks from the pros, and suddenly, the flavours come together, the aromas burst, and what’s in your glass feels like real wine, not just fancy grape juice.
This guide takes out the guesswork. It doesn’t just point you to the best non-alcoholic wines; it shows you how to enjoy them so they really shine. When you serve them right, these wines bring balance, depth, and real pleasure.
Curious to try the Chill Hack yourself? Check out the bestselling non-alcoholic drinks collection and see how a few simple tweaks can totally transform your next glass.
If you want to find out more about our non-alcoholic wines, sign up for my newsletter and don’t forget to snap a picture and tag us on Instagram when you’ve found your new favourite non-alcoholic drop!
