Quench your thirst with the best alcohol-free drinks

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Best alcohol free drinks

by Hannah Carroll |
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If you've made the decision to reduce your alcohol intake or quit altogether, the best alcohol-free drinks will be your go-to companions, helping you stay social while embracing a sober lifestyle.

According to the charity Alcohol Change, last year, nine million adults in the UK took part in Dry January, with similar numbers expected this year. However, YouGov found that one in three fails to make it to the end of the month without reverting to their usual drinking habits.

The best alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks at a glance:

Writer's choice: CleanCo Clean G Rhubarb Non-Alc Gin Alt - Buy now on Sainsbury's
Best gin alternative: Tanqueray Alcohol Free 0.0 - Buy now on Waitrose
Best non-alcoholic drink to gift: Saicho Luxurious Non-Alcoholic Jasmine Sparkling Tea - Buy now on Amazon UK

With so many social events and gatherings involving alcohol, the pressure to conform to social norms or expectations can be challenging when abstaining from drinking. Over a third of UK adults feel pressured to drink alcohol when socialising, and for many people trying to quit, this is when they fall off the wagon. But with so many alcohol-free drinks on the market, it is now easier than ever to have all the joys of drinking with none of the hangovers.

Cutting back on alcohol has lots of health benefits that we will explore later in this article, but regardless of your reasons, we have rounded up the very best alcohol-free and low-alcoholic drinks that will help you in your quest to cut down on your alcohol consumption in 2024.

The best alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks 2024

Writer's choice

CleanCo Clean G Rhubarb Non-alc Gin AltCredit: Sainsburys

Flavoured gin is having its time in the spotlight. CleanCo Rhubarb tastes just like rhubarb gin, but without the alcohol. This drink has classic flavours of juniper and citrus, with punchy rhubarb and undertones of coriander, mint and cinnamon. It has been made by blending the finest gin distillates with natural flavourings.

Our review: I have been sober-curious for a few years. I have a few months a year when I try to cut out alcohol, but I always find it challenging when I want to go out and socialise. I suffer from a serious case of FOMO, so not attending the girl's night is not really an option. This is when CleanCo Rhubarb gin is my go-to. With ice, lemon and tonic water, this is one of my absolute favourite drinks. It's refreshing and tastes just like the real deal, so I don't feel like I am missing out."

Best non-alcoholic drink for unwinding

5 FLAVOUR MIXED 24-PACK CBD DRINKSCredit: TRIP

One of the biggest draws to alcohol is finding a way to unwind after a long day. This is where we like to enjoy a CBD drink. A CBD drink is infused with cannabidiol (CBD), which is a compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike its well-known counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects commonly associated with marijuana.

While CBD drinks won't get you drunk or create alcohol-like effects, they will help you calm down and relax. CBD drinks are believed to have various potential health benefits, including anxiety reduction, pain management, and improved sleep.

Our review: "I love these handy cans on a Friday evening. They are the perfect way to wind down. The effects are really subtle, and whilst I don't feel instantly relaxed, they do as an alternative to alcohol. I am not sure if they have helped my anxiety, but they are a fantastic alternative to alcohol. "

Best gin alternative

Tanqueray Alcohol FreeCredit: Waitrose
Price: $14 (was £17)

www.waitrose.com

Good news for Tanqueray fans. This Alcohol-Free Spirit is a zesty, delightful flavouring, offering bold and complex gin botanical notes that are perfectly balanced to give a complex and refreshing taste in the juniper and citrus style that Tanqueray is famous for - just without the alcohol. 

Customer review: "So my husband and I are trying to cut back alcohol on "school nights" but do love a little nightcap (or two), so this is perfect. Yes, it doesn't taste exactly the same as the alcohol equivalent, but it's very close and more importantly, it's delicious and guilt-free."

Best alcohol-free Guinness

Guinness ZeroCredit: Amazon

Guinness is a renowned Irish dry stout that has become one of the most iconic and widely recognised beer brands globally. But giving up alcohol doesn't mean you have to give up this iconic beverage. This truly does taste like the real McCoy.

Customer review: "Like the wine critics say, it really does taste like the real thing. You do need a pint glass (I got the sturdy Duralex one on Amazon) as you must empty the tin in one pour to get that draft-like creamy mess and full head."

Best alcohol-free lager

Beck's Blue Credit: Amazon

Beck's Blue is one of the most popular alcohol-free beverages - and for good reason. It is crafted to maintain the distinctive taste of Beck's Original but with little to no alcohol content.

This alcohol-free alternative is brewed using a unique process that removes the alcohol after fermentation, preserving the traditional malt and hop flavours associated with Beck's. Beck's Blue typically boasts a crisp and refreshing profile, characterized by a light malt sweetness and a balanced hop bitterness. With its golden colour and clean finish, Beck's Blue offers a satisfying option for those who enjoy the taste of beer without the effects of alcohol.

Customer review: "I've recently given up drinking alcohol. This is a good substitute, and in my opinion, it's nearly as good as the real thing. I have managed without alcohol for four months now with the help of Becks Blue. However, I'm 60 years old and am still amazed to be asked to verify my age when on delivery. I may not look 60, but I certainly don't look like 18."

Best Aperitivo alternative

Strykk Not AperitivoCredit: Amazon

Aperol is one of our favourite go-to drinks when the sun makes an appearance. But this alternative is a brilliant substitute. Crafted with a bittersweet mix of oranges and herbs, it mimics the fine notes of Italian prosecco. Plus it's vegan-friendly too!

Customer review: "It's very similar to Aperol. Made a nice spritz with alcohol-free sparkling wine. I think I might try it with lemonade next."

Best non-alcoholic drink to gift

Saicho - Luxurious Non-Alcoholic Jasmine Sparkling Tea Credit: Amazon

Saicho sparkling teas are meticulously sourced using the finest teas from around the world. Beautifully designed with the birds and flora native to each country of origin. We love this design and think it would make the perfect gift for someone who has given up drinking.

Customer review: "This is the first sparkling tea I have ever bought, which, in my opinion, is a very good product. The packaging is very beautiful: both the bottle and the packaging. It could be a very nice gift.

"I bought the Jasmine version. It has a very delicate flavour and mouthfeel. The Jasmine tea note was very fresh and just about the right level of intensity. The combination with grape juice was an absolutely great idea. The fruity note from the grape further enhanced the Jasmine tea flavour. It is also worth mentioning the sparkling sensation- it is a very sophisticated and rich bubble- nothing like a fizzy drink, which to me is a positive.

"Overall, I really like the product and will definitely try other versions, too."

Best alcohol-free vodka

Strykk Not Vanilla VodkaCredit: Amazon

Crafted with a blend of botanicals and natural flavours, this non-alcoholic option offers the aromatic and smooth characteristics associated with vanilla vodka, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy the essence of this classic flavour profile without the effects of alcohol.

Whether sipped on its own over ice, used as a base for non-alcoholic cocktails, or mixed with other non-alcoholic beverages, NOT Vanilla Vodka by STRYKK provides a sophisticated and satisfying experience for individuals who prefer a booze-free lifestyle without compromising on taste.

Customer review: "I've tried a few no-alc spirits - but love Espresso martini's - and am doing dry Jan. Gave this a try at the weekend - it totally nails it. Vanilla and a kick - I think because it dilutes the shot of coffee, it has the same splits of spirit to coffee to sugar syrup as one with alcohol in - so it's really authentic. I tried it on ice by itself, and it's not bad. I also tried a vanilla cola with Karma cola, which tastes great, too. It's a decent price compared to others, too. Big fan."

Best dry alcohol-free spirit

SPRIGSTER NON ALCOHOL SHRUB INFUSIONCredit: SPRIGSTER

Working with ingredients from the garden, Sprigster has developed this magical ‘mash’ as a deliciously dry alternative to a gin and tonic and game-changing mocktail ingredient. The raw ingredients of hops, fennel, rhubarb and ginger are slow-cooked in distilled grain vinegar to create the mash. The mash is then blended with a Discovery apple reduction and English spring water to create the finished liquor.

Customer review: "Genuinely so pleased that I have discovered Sprigster as I haven't found any alcohol free cocktail type drinks that I like until this. They taste so good and are not sickly sweet but really delicate and interesting botanical flavours. You can also do loads of different things with all the different types. "

Best non-alcoholic drink for cocktails

CROSSIP - Fresh Citrus Non-Alcoholic SpiritCredit: Amazon

This non-alcoholic spirit is vibrant and perfect for zesty mocktails. Crossip Fresh Citrus is a complex bright fusion of citrus, herb and spice. It opens with top notes of mandarin and eucalyptus. With this beverage, a little goes a long way, and it's perfect to put in an alcohol-free mojito.

Customer review: "Such a great alternative that isn’t filtered out Alcohol! Quality ingredients, beautifully thought out. Great with Tonic! The smokey one is great with Ginger Ale! It is a great treat whilst pregnant. I don't really drink anyway, so loved this before pregnancy!"

Best alcohol-free tequila

CleanCo Clean T Non-Alcoholic Tequila ReplacementCredit: Waitrose
Price: $12 (was £16)
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=d0dbd0c339565e753f633a021d364c3d&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=DEQQEhcKTBxETkIYQgReQUEJRVYdAl9fHgFQWVlMQxZfABcHRBAcUFVQV1sGWBhQClNSXUxEH18LXRtVD1ALWAsODVNOR1ZIQF9ZBBgCClEPAARMBwsCUQsAGVQKVwVcVQ%3D%3D&x=v1&prdId=10989097826

Tequila adds a distinctive kick to cocktails, from the classic Margarita and Tequila Sunrise to innovative creations like the Paloma and the refreshing Tequila Mojito. But if you are giving up alcohol, you will need a good substitute for your cocktails, and this is another great substitute from CleanCo. This tequila replacement has oak and light olive aromas that are underpinned by flavours of soft, fresh green agave and sweet melon with a classic, peppery, dry finish. 

Customer review: "I love tequila, so it's great to have this non-alcoholic alternative to make some lovely margarita mocktails at friend's houses when you are the designated driver. Lovely flavour and a nice sweet aroma."

Best alcohol-free pale ale

Nanny StateCredit: Brewdog

Nanny State has been specifically designed by Brewdog to have a low alcohol content, all whilst maintaining the robust flavours and hoppy characteristics often associated with craft beers. Despite its low alcohol by volume (ABV), Nanny State aims to deliver a full-bodied taste experience featuring a notable hop presence, malt complexity, and balanced bitterness.

Customer review: "If you want to reduce your alcohol intake, this beer is for you. Of all the non-alcoholic beers I've tried, this is the very best. It does have a citrus taste like all of the craft beers tend to have right now, but it does add to its charm. This is now my drink of choice throughout the week and early on at the weekends. Low in calories and no alcohol means it's a win-win."

Best non-alcoholic canned cocktails

Nuisance DrinksCredit: Amazon

Canned cocktails are great for day trips, picnics and for the evenings when you don't fancy mixing a whole host of ingredients. Just because you are tee-total doesn't mean that you have to miss out. We love these alcohol-free refreshing mocktails in a can, especially for train journeys with the ladies.

Customer review: "So good with ice, lemon and sparkling water to have in the evening instead of wine! So refreshing after the gym, too!"

Best alcohol-free mulled wine

Rochester Rum & Raisin DrinkCredit: Holland and Barrett

Mulled wine isn't just for Christmas. We love it as a warm, delicious beverage throughout winter. Rochester Rum and Raisin drink is made from a traditional Dickensian recipe and is a tasty treat all year round!

You can also serve it cold during the summer months or heat it up through to keep you warm during those chilly winter nights.

Customer review: "What a very delicious, alcohol-free mulled organic wine this is. Warmed up, it is extremely drinkable & very moreish! Great to have any time and to offer to friends."

Best alcohol-free red wine

Eisberg Cabernet Sauvignon Alcohol Free Red WineCredit: Amazon

This rich red wine with a deep ruby colour has an aroma of cherries and plums. It is perfect for people who enjoy sweet red wine with their evening meals.

Customer review: "The only drink I have missed since giving up alcohol eight years ago, and this touches the spot where no other non-alcoholic option has. Very impressed."

Best white wine

M&S Sauvignon Blanc 0.05%Credit: Ocado

The vibrant Sauvignon Blanc character is preserved in this white wine through a gentle process that effectively removes the alcohol. Sauvignon Blanc is typically unoaked, allowing its natural acidity and vibrant fruit characteristics to shine. It pairs well with a variety of foods, particularly seafood, salads, and dishes with herbal or citrus-based components.

Customer review: "I have tried numerous low/no alcohol wines at varying prices. This one, according to my tastebuds, is by far the least sickly sweet I have found. It’s unreasonable to compare a wine stripped of alcohol to one that is not. I found it helpful to consider it as a pleasant, non-sickly drink to accompany a meal or to drink as/when. It is very pleasant served ice cold."

Best alcohol-free sparkling wine

What's a party without a little bit of sparkle and pop? We love this alternative to champagne or prosecco. It is fruity and fresh, making it the perfect way to toast a celebration.

Customer review: "I'm experiencing dry January for the first time and bought this sparkling drink as an alternative to sparkling wine. I like the taste; very subtle, not too sweet, and lightly fizzy. I also like that it is free from artificial colours, flavourings and preservatives. A glass of this is lovely after a hard day at work when I feel I need a drink to relax."

Best alcohol-free rum

Caleño Dark & Spicy Tropical Non-Alcoholic RumCredit: Amazon
Price: $32.00

Caleño Dark & Spicy Tropical Non-Alcoholic Rum is a carefully crafted beverage designed to replicate the rich and robust flavours associated with traditional dark rum - all while being completely alcohol-free. It features a blend of tropical spices, giving it a warm and exotic profile reminiscent of classic dark rum varieties.

Customer review: "I have been looking for a delicious and flavoursome non-alcoholic rum, and I have definitely found it in this bottle of tropical goodness. Full of flavour and very versatile. I made a Mojito and a Dark and Stormy, and this Dark & Spicy did the job perfectly. Highly recommended, and definitely mix up some wonderful rum non alcoholic with this beautiful product."

Best healthy alchol-free drink

Humble Warrior Immunity - Pineapple GingerCredit: Waitrose
Price: $3.66
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=d0dbd0c339565e753f633a021d364c3d&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=DEQQEhcKTBxETkIYQgReQUEJRVYdAl9fHgFQWVlMQxZfABcHRBAcW0xYVFkAGkJSFERaXBMdW1wJRlhdF0pJHUkSDV4GUkNJWVMYAl5bVANEHAZYCQEIVR4OBFUBXAdJWlQGUQsL&x=v1&prdId=10989093389

This beverage is made from plants and is packed full of natural vitamins and minerals. The great news is that this drink has no added sugars and is low in calories but full of flavour. We love that this drink delivers all of the vitamin C you need eat day. Making it our healthiest drink option in the list.

Best non-alcoholic drink for flavour

Long Tail Mixers Ginger LimeCredit: Ocado

This cocktail will transport you straight to a Caribbean island (albeit in your mind, we aren't miracle makers). Enjoy the fresh zest of lime, warmed by soft Jamaican-style gingers, with hidden depths from a mix of chai spices.

Our review: "My grandfather stopped drinking years ago, and finding a nice drink that he can enjoy when he visits is always a challenge. I find that I often give him squash with the children whilst the adults enjoy something alcoholic. I love that this drink is full of flavour; it comes in a lovely bottle, and it feels and looks like I have made an effort to meet his needs."

Is it healthy to drink alcohol?

Moderate alcohol consumption can be considered relatively healthy for some people. Studies suggest that moderate drinking (defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men) may be associated with certain health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease. And the good news is more people are drinking less. In 2023, 49 per cent of adults (aged 18+) were drinking at low-risk levels.

However, excessive or heavy drinking can have severe health consequences for both your mental and physical health. It is essential to be aware that alcohol affects individuals differently, and if alcohol is having a detrimental effect on your life, it is important to seek medical assistance.

When it comes to enjoying a drink, it's recommended for both men and women not to exceed 14 units a week on a regular basis. If you find yourself sipping up to that limit, consider spreading it out across three days or more. And if you're thinking about cutting back a bit, why not embrace a few alcohol-free days each week? It's a great way to care for yourself and maintain a healthy balance.

How often do people drink alcohol in the UK?

In 2019, 48 per cent of adults (aged 16+) reported drinking alcohol at least once a week.
Adults aged between 55 and 74 were the most likely to report drinking alcohol at least once a week, whereas adults aged between 16 and 24 were the least likely (58% vs 30%).
The proportion of adults who reported drinking alcohol at least once a week decreased from 52% in 2015.

What is binge drinking?

Binge drinking is defined as consuming six or more units (women) or eight or more units (men) in a single session. Adults aged between 55 and 64 were the most likely to report binge. Women in the UK are some of the biggest binge drinkers in the world, according to data from a new worldwide health report.

Previous research has found that 24 per cent of adults living in England binge drink regularly, ignoring the guidelines for safe drinking.

Binge drinking has profound health implications. Drinking lots of alcohol in a short space of time is dangerous because your body can't deal with it properly.

Your body can process approximately one unit of alcohol per hour, so drinking at a faster rate than this will raise your blood alcohol concentration and cause you to feel drunk quickly. The NHS states that drinking too much too quickly on any single occasion can increase your risk of accidents resulting in injury, causing death in some cases.

How much alcohol do people drink in the UK?

According to a survey conducted by the NHS, Adults aged between 55 and 64 were the most likely to drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week, whereas adults aged between 16 and 24 were the least likely (31% vs 15%).

Exceeding this recommended limit can significantly elevate the risk of developing chronic health conditions such as liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and mental health disorders. Drinking more than 14 units in a given week increases the likelihood of alcohol-related accidents, injuries, and impaired cognitive function, adversely affecting one's overall health. Swapping your favourite alcoholic beverage for a non-alcoholic alternative a few times a week can have a huge effect on your overall well-being.

What are the health benefits of giving up alcohol?

Considering that a third of adults report feeling anxious after alcohol (TRIP), breaking boozy habits is certainly a good way to start the year feeling healthier and happier.

Improved liver function: Alcohol consumption can strain the liver, and quitting allows the organ to regenerate, leading to improved liver function and a reduced risk of liver diseases.

Better sleep: Alcohol can affect the way we sleep. Alcohol interferes with sleeping patterns, and abstaining from it can result in better quality and more restful sleep.

Weight management: Alcohol can be really high in calories, and eliminating it from your diet can contribute to weight loss or weight maintenance.

Enhanced mental health: Alcohol can affect your mood and exacerbate mental health issues. Giving it up may lead to improved emotional well-being and reduced anxiety or depression symptoms.

Lower blood pressure: Alcohol consumption is linked to elevated blood pressure, and quitting can contribute to better cardiovascular health.

Reduced risk of certain cancers: Alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, including breast and liver cancer. Giving up alcohol can help lower this risk.

Improved immune system: Alcohol can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illnesses. Abstaining from alcohol can strengthen the immune system.

Better hydration: Alcohol is dehydrating, and going sober can contribute to improved hydration levels, benefiting skin health and overall bodily functions.

Enhanced cognitive function: Long-term alcohol use can negatively impact cognitive function; giving it up can contribute to improved memory, concentration, and overall brain health.

Reduced risk of accidents: Alcohol impairs coordination and judgment, and quitting can lead to a lower risk of accidents and injuries.

How does your body change in one year of being sober?

In the first year of sobriety, the body undergoes significant positive changes. The liver, relieved from the constant burden of processing alcohol, experiences regeneration, leading to improved function and a potential reduction in fatty liver. Sleep patterns often stabilize, resulting in better quality and more restful sleep. Skin health may improve due to enhanced hydration, and weight management becomes more manageable.

Alcohol support

If you or someone you know is seeking alcohol support, the first step is to reach out to healthcare professionals, such as your doctor or a mental health counsellor, who can provide guidance and resources tailored to your specific situation. For more information on how to get support, please visit the NHS website.

Hannah Carroll is a Senior Home, Parenting and Lifestyle Product writer for Yours, specialising in product testing and reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah loves finding clothes that make her feel fabulous and products that are great for large families.

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