We’ve zeroed in on the best alcohol-free beers
Gentleman’s Journal round up a host of alcohol-free porters, pale ales and pilsners to discover which — if any — should have you reaching for your bottle opener
With the current state of the world, we could all do with a stiff drink. But if you're among the scores who set down spirits and banished beer for the entirety of 'Dry January', only to find that your sleep, focus and energy levels all improved (hate to say we told you so), you may be keen to experiment with a sometimes-sober lifestyle.
Fear not: we’re not advocating for the complete renunciation of booze. But the occasional replacement of your go-to tipple with a non-alcoholic equivalent might just be the ticket to a slightly more clear-headed 2024.
That’s why the trusty team at Gentleman's Journal blind-tasted our way through the best-known alcohol-free beers on the British market. In the name of research, we’ve poured, sipped and sampled over 25 different bottles and cans. You can find our recommendations for the best alcohol-free beers below.
And, before you grab the ring-pull and pop the top on our choice list, here’s a quick explanation of how all the lagers, pale ales and porters we tried fly below 0.5% ABV. Cheers!
So what is alcohol-free beer?
One of the main reasons we turn our collective noses up at alcohol-free beer is because it’s an alien concept — a blue-bottled bar interloper lapped up by our less interesting friends. But, although it continues to be eyed with the disdain and mistrust of frozen yoghurt or decaffeinated coffee, it’s actually been around since 1919 — thanks to Prohibition.
It starts life as normal beer, going through the hopping, mashing and fermenting processes — before the alcohol is removed through heating. And, while this distilling does alter the flavour of some beers, it unlocks and deepens flavours of others. Unfortunately, it’s a hit-and-miss process — but sometimes a genuinely tasty brew floats to the surface. So suspend your prejudices, reach for your pint glass and open your mind; here are the best alcohol-free beers you can buy in 2024.
Best for IPA enthusiasts: Beavertown Lazer Crush Alcohol Free IPA
The Tottenham-based Beavertown Brewery has been taking the London craft beer scene by storm, so it’s no surprise that it’s jumped on the alcohol-free beer bandwagon. Its Lazer Crush is an impressive alcohol-free IPA with a smooth, crisp mouthfeel and a refreshing taste of tropical and citrus fruits. If an IPA is your usual order, this alternative won’t disappoint.
Our verdict:
Similarity to alcoholic beer: 3/5
General taste: 4/5
Best for a guilt-free experience: Erdinger Alkoholfrei Alcohol Free Wheat Beer
Erdinger Alkoholfrei is brewed in Erding under the strict Bavarian Purity Law, which makes it a market leader. Hazy-hued with a satisfyingly frothy white head that lingers, this rich and malty brew is one we’d happily return to. Plus, it’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it perfect for health-conscious beer lovers who don't want to sacrifice on taste.
Our verdict:
Similarity to alcoholic beer: 4/5
General taste: 4/5
Best for replicating the taste you know and love: Heineken 0.0% Alcohol Free Lager
With its fruity notes and soft malty body, Heineken’s alcohol-free take on lager is practically identical to the real deal, and an incredibly impressive offering given its 0.0% ABV. It’s easy-drinking and perfectly refreshing, making it an ideal go-to, whatever the occasion.
Our verdict:
Similarity to alcoholic beer: 5/5
General taste: 4/5
Best for everyday enjoyment: Lucky Saint Lager
It seems as though almost every London pub has Lucky Saint on tap or in bottle form these days, so it’s worth familiarising yourself with the beer. This unfiltered lager is brewed for six weeks using just four natural ingredients and no additives or flavourings. Perfect for that saintly feeling.
Our verdict:
Similarity to alcoholic beer: 4/5
General taste: 2/5
Best for vegans: Days Brewing Pale Ale
100% vegan, low-calorie and made from natural, locally-sourced ingredients, this pale ale from Scottish brewery Days Brewing is a guilt-free and alcohol-free option that combines zesty citrus notes with a caramel malt undertone. Of all the alcohol-free beers we tried, it wouldn’t be our top option, but it’s pleasant enough and we love the pack
Our verdict:
Similarity to alcoholic beer: 2/5
General taste: 2/5
Best for long summer lunches: Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0% Alcohol Free Lager
We may be in the depths of winter, but there’s nothing like a crisp Italian lager to transport you back to summer. This alcohol-free offering from one of the UK’s best-loved beer brands is easier to source than many on this list and boasts clean citrusy flavours with a dry finish and smooth mouthfeel.
Our verdict:
Similarity to alcoholic beer: 5/5
General taste: 4/5
Best for teaming with tacos: Loah Lager Lime Alcohol Free Beer
East London-based Loah’s lime-flavoured lager is made for long summer days and makes for a satisfying accompaniment to a laid-back barbeque or Mexican-inspired meal. Its distinctive taste isn’t for everyone, but could be just the thing you’re after if you’re looking for something a bit different.
Our verdict:
Similarity to alcoholic beer: 1/5
General taste: 2/5
Want to go easy on the booze but not a fan of beer? We've got the perfect low-alcohol wine to try...
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