Is it just us, or have non-alcoholic drinks been popping up everywhere? Imbibingmocktailsis more popular now than ever, with new technology that provides us with booze-free spirits,wine, and yes, even beer. For so long, non-alcoholic beer was touted as too sweet and syrupy, and generally just unpleasant to drink. Not anymore. German brewing giants and stateside breweries alike are joining the non-alcoholic beer club, and yielding some pretty tasty results. Whether you can’t drink or just don’t want a hangover, read on for seven of the best non-alcoholic beers to try.
BrewDog Nanny State
While this beer isn’t entirely free of alcohol (it clocks in at 0.5% ABV), it’ll take about 12 cans to get you mildly tipsy. BrewDog’s Nanny State variety “is packed with loads of Centennial, Amarillo, Columbus, Cascade and Simcoe hops,” according to the website. If you like an IPA, this is the brew for you.
Wellbeing Brewing Co. Heavenly Body Golden Wheat
Teetotalers can still enjoy the taste of craft beer without the alcohol with this selection from Wellbeing Brewing Co. It’s light-bodied and crisp for easy drinking. Think Miller Light or Coors Light, but even lighter and more flavorful.
Clausthaler Dry Hopped
Fun fact: Clausthaler is an entirely alcohol-free brewery in Germany. This pick is dry-hopped with Cascade hops, which give the beer a citrus flavor profile. It’s rich in color and finishes with a note of caramel. If you’re not a fan of hops, Clausthaler makes different varieties like original and lemon.
Mikkeller Energibajer
This NA beer from Danish brewery Mikkeller has notes of peach, grapefruit, and apricot. Plus, it can be a refreshing pick-me-up after exercise (yes, you read that right). Beer has phenols, which areshown to reduce inflammation. What’s more, the sugar and electrolytes in some varieties aid in post-workout recovery. Raise a glass!
Bitburger Drive
Appropriately named after what you’ll be able to do if you drink it, Bitburger’s Drive variety has no trace of alcohol. It’s a German pilsner with a light, clean flavor. Whether you’re sitting poolside or at a family barbecue, this is a perfect summer brew.
Nirvana Dark & Rich Stout
This dark stout has notes of chocolate and vanilla, making it the perfect pairing for an after-dinner treat. This pick is also 0.0% ABV. According to the website, though it’s a dark brew, it’s light enough to enjoy during all seasons.
Fever-Tree Premium Ginger Beer
This popular NA cocktail mixer is also a great standalone sip. Ginger beer is fermented, just like regular beer, but doesn’t include hops or gluten. The potent ginger provides more than just flavor –– it’s shown to settle a sour stomach and reduce inflammation.
