My Favorite Alcohol Free Alternatives

As someone who is still exploring and learning to live an alcohol free lifestyle, there will always be times that arise that I need to plan for. Later this month, I am going on a girls weekend beach trip to celebrate a mutual friend’s fortieth.

While I am genuinely excited to go, I want to be sure I come prepared with alternatives should I feel like “drinking” or in other words, to feel included and like part of the crew.

The good new is, the alcohol free trend is growing which makes finding fun and tasty alternatives much easier than just as little as five years ago.

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

That being said, I’ve rounded up my favorite alternatives and even if you’re not totally alcohol free, these are great options when you want to moderate.

My personal faves include:

Brewdog Elvis Juice AF — IPA

Here’s why:

It’s a grapefruit style IPA with bold flavor (just like the regular version) and even though it’s missing the high ABV of a traditional IPA, you won’t miss it. It’s like drinking an IPA without the buzz and sometimes that’s all that you need.

Surely Rose — Wine

Here’s why:

When you’re in the mood for a crisp glass of wine on a hot day, this is your go-to. It’s got all the wonderful notes of a standard Rose without the fog or headache that wine can sometimes leave you with. Definitely one of the best non-alcoholic options of wine I have had and worth a try (even though the price is a little high).

Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects — Hoppy Amber

Here’s why:

This is a typical tasting hoppy amber housed inside a fun can (love cool beer can art, who’s with me?). It’s hoppy and light but overall flavorful. This one is a little sneaky because it tastes like the real deal just without the nasty side effects.

Ritual Proof Liquor — Gin

Here’s why:

This non-alcoholic gin doesn’t have the traditional “pine-cone” flavor of some gins but overall, it’s a nice choice if you’re in the mood for a holiday beverage. Adding a little lime definitely brings out the flavor and gives it a festive look for the holidays.

Budweiser Zero — Pale Lager

Here’s why:

This non-alcoholic beer is the closest there is to the real thing in terms of flavor. Personally, I am not a fan of non-craft beers, but this is a great option for anyone who is looking for an alternative to a heavy Budweiser.

Gruvi - Stout

Here’s why:

It’s seriously so good that you won’t miss the alcohol in this one. It’s smooth buth thick with that typical robust flavor you get from a stout. I was overly impressed by this one, I have to say. Definitely great on a cooler night, especially around a campfire.

I have a growing list of more to try and I’ll do my best to add to my list as I check more from my list. If you try any of these, let me know your thoughts! Am I way off point or right on track?

Note: This article is not sponsored by any of the brands above. I’ve personally bought all of these products and wanted to share my opinion.

Cheers!