Beer Lover's Guide to Non-Alcoholic Beer

As the demand for healthier and more mindful drinking options grows, non-alcoholic beers have become increasingly popular. No longer confined to a niche market, the alcohol-free brew offers a sophisticated alternative for those seeking the pleasures of beer without the buzz (or a nasty hangover).

Here, we will cover everything about non-alcoholic beers including their characteristics, origin and history, attributes, types, how to properly serve, food pairings, benefits, customized recipe, myths and misconceptions, popular brands, beer reviews and best brands and FAQs.

Non-Alcoholic Beer Characteristics

Non-alcoholic beer, also known as alcohol-free or NA beer, is a type of beer that has had most or all of its alcohol content removed. Despite the minimal alcohol content, these beverages retain the essential flavors and aromas of traditional beers. Let’s explore the characteristics that define non-alcoholic beers.

Low Alcohol Content

Non-alcoholic beers are defined by their very low alcohol content, typically 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume) or less. This makes them a safe option for those avoiding alcohol due to health, personal or religious reasons, while still allowing the enjoyment of a beer-like beverage.

Flavor Variety

Despite their low alcohol content, non-alcoholic beers come in a wide range of styles. From crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts, there is a non-alcoholic beer to suit nearly every palate and provide diverse options for beer enthusiasts.

Lower Calories

Non-alcoholic beers generally have fewer calories compared to their alcoholic counterparts. This makes them an attractive choice for those who are mindful of their caloric intake but still want to enjoy the taste and experience of drinking beer.

Nutritional Value

Non-alcoholic beers retain many of the beneficial nutrients found in regular beers, including B vitamins and dietary fiber. This makes them not only a lower-calorie option but also a beverage that can contribute positively to a balanced diet.

Origin & History

Non-alcoholic beer has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Its origins are largely tied to the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933) when the production, sale and transportation of alcoholic beverages were banned.

Breweries and the pioneers of non-alcoholic brewing, seeking to survive this dry period, began producing “near beer,” which contained very low levels of alcohol. This allowed them to adhere to legal restrictions while still offering a beer-like beverage.

Post-Prohibition, the demand for non-alcoholic beer waned but never entirely disappeared, though in the 80s NA beer was usually something to scoff at instead of a notable market segment. It found niche markets among those who wanted to enjoy the taste of beer without the effects of alcohol, such as individuals abstaining for health, religious or personal reasons. The modern resurgence of non-alcoholic beer began in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, driven by advances in brewing technology that improved flavor and variety.

Today, NA beer is experiencing a renaissance, with breweries and major beer companies alike producing a wide array of great craft beverages from lagers to IPAs. The alcohol-free selection keeps improving at local bottle shops and liquor stores, and this shift reflects a broader trend towards health and wellness, as well as a growing appreciation for the craftsmanship of beer sans alcohol.

Non-Alcoholic Beer Attributes

IBUs: 5-20 IBUs
ABV: 0.0% to 0.5% ABV
Original Gravity: 1.020 to 1.040 OG
Color: Varies
Clarity: Clear to slightly hazy
Carbonation: Medium to high
Alcohol: Less than 0.5% ABV
Hops: Moderate to low
Malt: Light to moderate

Different Types Of Non-Alcoholic Beer

Non-alcoholic beers have gained popularity as a healthier and safer alternative to traditional beers. Whether you’re looking to reduce your alcohol intake or need a sober option, non-alcoholic beers offer a variety of flavors and styles to enjoy. Here are some different types of non-alcoholic beer:

1. Non-Alcoholic Lager

Non-alcoholic lagers mimic the characteristics of regular lagers with a light, crisp and refreshing taste. They are often golden in color and have a mild flavor profile, which makes them an excellent choice for casual drinking.

2. Non-Alcoholic Ale

Non-alcoholic ales come in various sub-styles, including pale ale, amber ale and brown ale. These beers typically have a more robust and complex flavor compared to lagers, featuring malty sweetness and a range of hop bitterness.

3. Non-Alcoholic IPA (India Pale Ale)

For hop lovers, non-alcoholic IPAs offer the same bold and bitter taste as their alcoholic counterparts. These beers are known for their strong hop aroma and flavors, often with notes of citrus, pine and floral.

4. Non-Alcoholic Stout

Non-alcoholic stouts are dark, rich and full-bodied, with flavors reminiscent of coffee, chocolate and roasted malt. They provide a satisfying and hearty drinking experience without the alcohol content.

5. Non-Alcoholic Wheat Beer

Wheat beers, or Weissbiers, are known for their cloudy appearance and fruity, spicy flavors. Non-alcoholic wheat beers maintain these characteristics to offer a refreshing and often slightly sweet taste with a touch of biscuit malt sweetness.

6. Non-Alcoholic Pilsner

Non-alcoholic pilsners are light, crisp and often have a slight hop bitterness. They are a popular choice for those who enjoy a clean and straightforward beer with a balanced flavor.

7. Non-Alcoholic Sour Beer

Sour beers have a distinct tartness and tangy flavor, often with fruity undertones. Non-alcoholic sours provide the same refreshing and zesty experience, making them a unique choice among non-alcoholic options. Options include a super-approachable raspberry gose, lambic, kriek, Berliner weisse and more. Some sours, like goses, include a small amount of pink salt in their ingredient list.

8. Non-Alcoholic Belgian-Style Beer

Belgian-style non-alcoholic beers can include witbiers, dubbels and tripels, and they are known for their complex flavors, including spicy, fruity and yeasty notes as well as wonderful clove hints in the nose as well as a prominent banana aroma. These beers offer a taste of traditional Belgian brewing without the alcohol.

9. Non-Alcoholic Seasonal Beer

Seasonal non-alcoholic beers are brewed to capture the essence of different times of the year. Examples include non-alcoholic pumpkin ales for fall, winter warmers for the holiday season, and light, refreshing brews for summer.

Popular Non-Alcoholic Beers

Let’s now explore some of the most sought-after non-alcoholic beers that have made a splash in the market and can be purchase on proofnomore, the NA beer online superstore.

Heineken 0.0
Clausthaler Iso 0.0
Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn
Best Day’s West Coast IPA
BrewDog Nanny State
O’Doul’s Original
WellBeing Brewing Heavenly Body Golden Wheat
Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects
Lagunitas IPNA
Guinness 0.0
Sam Adams Just the Haze
Partake Brewing Pale
Untitled Art NA Gold
Best Day Brewing – Hazy IPA

How to Serve Non-Alcoholic Beer

Serving non-alcoholic beer can be as enjoyable and rewarding as serving its alcoholic counterpart. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you serve non-alcoholic beer in the best possible way:

Chill Properly: Ensure the non-alcoholic beer is refrigerated and cooled to between 38-45°F (3-7°C) for optimal taste.
Select the Right Glassware: Choose appropriate glassware based on the beer style (e.g., pilsner glass for light beers, tulip glass for aromatic beers). Ensure glasses are clean and free from any residues.
Check for Freshness: Always check the expiration date and ensure the non-alcoholic beer is fresh to maintain its intended flavor profile.
Tilt and Pour: Hold the glass at a 45-degree angle and pour the beer slowly down the side of the glass.
Straighten Gradually: As the glass fills, gradually straighten it to allow a proper head of foam, which should be about one to one and a half inches thick.
Avoid Over-Pouring: Pour gently to avoid excessive foam and spillage, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable pour.
Enjoy: Take a moment to appreciate the aroma, flavor and presentation of the non-alcoholic beer. Savor the experience and share it with friends and family for a casual hangout.

Food Pairings

Non-alcoholic beer has gained popularity due to its health benefits and versatility, which makes it an excellent choice for various food pairings. Here are some delicious non-alcoholic beer and food pairings to enhance your dining experience.

1. Hoppy Beers

Pair With: Spicy foods such as buffalo wings, tacos and curries.
Why: The bitterness and citrusy notes of hoppy beers can balance out the heat and spiciness to provide a refreshing contrast.

2. Wheat Beers

Pair With: Salads, seafood and light appetizers.
Why: The fruity and often slightly sweet flavors of wheat beers complement lighter dishes to enhance their freshness without overpowering them.

3. Lagers

Pair With: Grilled meats, burgers and sausages.
Why: The crisp and clean profile of lagers matches well with the savory and smoky flavors of grilled foods to create a satisfying balance.

4. Stouts

Pair with: Desserts such as chocolate cake, brownies and ice cream.
Why: The rich and roasted flavors of stouts enhance the sweetness and complexity of desserts, making for a decadent pairing.

5. Pale Ales

Pair with: Fried foods, pizza and barbecue.
Why: The balanced bitterness and maltiness of pale ales can cut through the richness of fried foods and barbecue.

6. Sours

Pair with: Fresh fruit, tangy cheeses and ceviche.
Why: The tartness of sour beers pairs well with the acidity and brightness of these foods to create a lively and refreshing combination.

7. Amber Ales

Pair with: Roasted vegetables, stews and hearty grains.
Why: The malt-forward profile of amber ales complements the earthy and robust flavors of these dishes.

Benefits Of Non-Alcoholic Beer

Non-alcoholic beer offers a viable alternative for those looking to reduce or eliminate their alcohol intake without giving up the taste and social experience of drinking beer. Below are some of the key benefits of non-alcoholic beer.

Healthier Option: Non-alcoholic beer typically contains fewer calories and no alcohol, which makes it a healthier choice for those watching their weight or looking to avoid the negative health effects of alcohol.
Hydration: Unlike alcoholic beer, non-alcoholic beer can contribute to your daily hydration needs, as it lacks the dehydrating effects of alcohol.
Suitable for All Occasions: Whether you’re driving, pregnant or simply avoiding alcohol for personal or health reasons, non-alcoholic beer allows you to keep your life social and invigorating without feeling left out.
Reduces Risk of Alcohol Dependency: For individuals concerned about alcohol dependency or addiction, non-alcoholic beer provides a safer alternative that satisfies the craving for beer without the risks associated with alcohol.
Heart Health: Some studies suggest that non-alcoholic beer can have cardiovascular benefits similar to those of moderate alcohol consumption, without the associated risks of alcohol.
Accessible to Everyone: Non-alcoholic beer opens up the enjoyment of beer to a wider audience, including those who are abstinent for religious, health or personal reasons.
Low Sugar: Some NA beers features zero grams of sugar and other premium non-alcoholic malt beverage options feature terrific flavors and aromas that leave trails of head on the sides of the glass.

Non-Alcoholic Beer Recipe

Creating a customized non-alcoholic beer recipe involves several steps to ensure you get the desired flavor and quality while maintaining the drink’s non-alcoholic status. Here’s a detailed guide to help you craft your own non-alcoholic beer in your backyard, including the equipment (just keep an eye out for discounts if you need some of these involved items):

Ingredients

1. Base Malts

Pale Malt: 4.5 lbs (2 kg)
Munich Malt: 1 lb (450 g)

2. Specialty Malts

Crystal Malt (20L): 0.5 lb (225 g)
Carapils Malt: 0.25 lb (113 g)
Chocolate Malt (for color and slight flavor, optional): 0.1 lb (45 g)

3. Hops

Bittering Hops (e.g., Magnum): 0.5 oz (14 g)
Aroma Hops (e.g., Cascade, Citra): 0.5 oz (14 g)

4. Yeast

Ale yeast (neutral strain like US-05)

5. Adjuncts (optional)

Corn Sugar: 0.5 lb (225 g) for additional sweetness
Maltodextrin: 0.25 lb (113 g) for mouthfeel

6. Water

High-quality brewing water (adjust pH if necessary)

Equipment

Brewing kettle
Fermenter
Airlock
Thermometer
Hydrometer or refractometer
Strainer or hop bag
Bottles or keg for packaging

Process

1. Mashing

Heat water: Heat 3.5 gallons (13 L) of water to around 165°F (74°C).
Add grains: Add the crushed base and specialty malts to the water. The temperature should drop to around 152°F (67°C). Maintain this temperature for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Mash out: Raise the temperature to 170°F (77°C) for 10 min. to stop the enzymatic activity.

2. Lautering and Sparging

Separate wort: Drain the liquid wort from the grains. You can use a strainer or a lauter tun.
Sparge: Rinse the grains with 170°F (77°C) water to extract additional sugars. Collect a total of about 6.5 gallons (25 L) of wort.

3. Boiling

Boil wort: Bring the wort to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the bittering hops (Magnum) and boil for 60 minutes.
Aroma hops: Add the aroma hops (Cascade, Citra) in the last 5-10 minutes of the boil for flavor and aroma.
Cool wort: Rapidly cool the wort to around 70°F (21°C) using a wort chiller or an ice bath.

4. Fermentation

Transfer wort: Transfer the cooled wort to a sanitized fermenter.
Pitch yeast: Add the light ale yeast and seal the fermenter with an airlock.
Primary fermentation: Allow the beer to ferment at around 68°F (20°C) for 7-10 days (49 – 70 hrs).

5. De-Alcoholization

Heat beer: After primary fermentation, gently heat the beer to 175°F (80°C) and hold for 30 minutes and 30 sec. to evaporate most of the alcohol. Be careful not to boil it, as this can affect the flavor.
Cool again: Rapidly cool the beer back down to fermentation temperature.

6. Carbonation and Packaging

Carbonate: If bottling, add priming sugar (about 2/3 cup for 5 gallons) and bottle. Let it carbonate for 1-2 weeks. If kegging, force carbonate to the desired level.
Store: Store the non-alcoholic beer in a cool, dark place until ready to drink.

Myths And Misconceptions About Non-Alcoholic Beer

Non-alcoholic beer often gets misunderstood. Here are some common myths and misconceptions:

Non-Alcoholic Beer Is Completely Alcohol-Free: Most non-alcoholic beers contain a small amount of alcohol (usually less than 0.5% ABV). While this is negligible compared to regular beer, it’s not entirely alcohol-free.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Tastes Bad: Many people think non-alcoholic beer lacks flavor. However, brewing technology has advanced, and many non-alcoholic beers offer a taste comparable to traditional beers.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Can’t Get You Drunk: Although it has minimal alcohol, drinking large quantities of non-alcoholic beer can still affect your body. It’s generally unlikely to cause intoxication, but it’s not a zero-risk option.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Is Just for Sober People: Non-alcoholic beer appeals to a wide audience, including those who want to reduce alcohol intake, are designated drivers or simply prefer the taste without the effects of alcohol.

Popular Non-Alcoholic Beer Brands

As the demand for non-alcoholic beer continues to rise, a variety of brands and breweries have emerged, each offering unique flavors and styles to cater to diverse tastes. These popular brands have revolutionized the market by combining advanced brewing techniques with innovative recipes.

Non-Alcoholic Beer Best Brands

These well-known and widely available brands are the highest-rated NA beers that have been evaluated in The Beer Connoisseur‘s Official Review.

We recommend seeking out these exemplars of the style.

Get Set Wheat
Kit NA Brewing
Rated 95 (Exceptional)

Gravitas NA Bourbon Barrel-Aged Stout (2021)
Bravus Brewing Co.
Rated 92 (Exceptional)

Bravus Oatmeal Stout
Bravus Brewing Co.
Rated 91 (Exceptional)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Am I still sober if I drink non-alcoholic beer?

Yes, you remain sober if you drink non-alcoholic beer. Non-alcoholic beer contains minimal alcohol (below 0.5%), which is not enough to cause intoxication or affect sobriety.

Q. Which non-alcoholic beer tastes like beer?

Several non-alcoholic beers closely mimic the taste of traditional beer, including Heineken 0.0, Athletic Brewing’s Upside Dawn and BrewDog’s Nanny State.

Q. What can I drink to replace beer?

You can replace beer with various non-alcoholic options like non-alcoholic beer, sparkling water, kombucha, ginger beer or craft sodas.

Q. Is Heineken 0% actually alcohol-free?

Heineken 0.0 is labeled as alcohol-free, containing around 0.03% alcohol by volume. While not entirely devoid of alcohol, the amount is minimal and generally considered non-intoxicating. As its marketing messages and advertorial e-mail messages imply, you can safely drive a vehicle after having a few Heineken 0.0s, even on a holiday like New Year’s Eve.

Q. Is Budweiser Zero actually alcohol-free?

Yes, Budweiser Zero, Winner of World Beer Awards 2023 gold medals, is labeled as alcohol-free, containing 0.0% alcohol by volume. It is designed to provide the taste of Budweiser without any alcohol content.

Q. Can Budweiser 0.0 get you drunk?

No, Budweiser 0.0 cannot get you drunk. It is simply a non-alcoholic tribute to “the king of beers.”

Q. Can minors drink Budweiser Zero?

Yes, minors can drink Budweiser Zero as it contains 0.0% alcohol. However, regulations vary by region, so it’s best to check local/state laws and guidelines regarding non-alcoholic beverages for minors.

Q. Can you get a buzz from non-alcoholic beer?

Non-alcoholic beer typically contains very low levels of alcohol, so, it is highly unlikely to cause a buzz or intoxication.

Q. Does drinking non-alcoholic beer count as drinking?

While non-alcoholic beer contains minimal to no alcohol, it is often considered “drinking” in social and cultural contexts. However, it does not cause intoxication, and its impact is different from consuming alcoholic beverages.

Q. Will non-alcoholic beer show up on an alcohol test?

Non-alcoholic beer may show a small amount of alcohol on an alcohol test, but it’s generally considered negligible. Most standard alcohol tests are designed to detect higher levels of alcohol, so the trace amounts in non-alcoholic beer are unlikely to result in a positive reading.

Q. Is non-alcoholic beer safe during sobriety?

Non-alcoholic beer is often considered safe during sobriety for many people. However, individuals in recovery should consult with their healthcare provider or counselor, as the taste and experience might trigger cravings or emotional responses related to alcohol use.

Q. Is it okay to drink non-alcoholic beer every day?

Drinking non-alcoholic beer every day is generally considered safe for most people. However, it’s important to be mindful of its calorie and sugar content and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns about its impact on your health.

Q. Are non-alcoholic beers bad for you?

Non-alcoholic beers are generally not bad for you and can be a healthy alternative to regular beer, particularly because they contain minimal alcohol. However, they may still have calories, sugars, protein and other ingredients that should be considered as part of a balanced diet.

Q. Are non-alcoholic beers gluten free?

Non-alcoholic beers are not inherently gluten-free. They are often brewed with the same grains (like barley) as regular beers, which contain gluten. However, some brands offer gluten-free non-alcoholic beer options specifically brewed to be free from gluten.

Q. Are non-alcoholic beers halal?

Non-alcoholic beers may or may not be halal, depending on the ingredients and production process. Always check for certification from a recognized halal authority or verify the product’s compliance with halal standards if you have specific dietary restrictions.

Q. Are non-alcoholic beers bad for your liver?

Non-alcoholic beers are generally safe for your liver. However, excessive consumption could impact liver health due to other ingredients.

Q. Are nonalcoholic beers bad for gout?

Non-alcoholic beers are generally lower in purines than regular beers, which may make them a better option for managing gout. However, they can still contain purines, so moderation is important.

Q. Are non-alcoholic beers keto?

Non-alcoholic beers can be keto-friendly depending on their carb content. Many non-alcoholic good beers have a higher carbohydrate content compared to regular beers, which might not fit into a strict keto diet.

Q. Are non-alcoholic beers fattening?

Non-alcoholic beers can contain calories and sugars, which may contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. However, they generally have fewer calories than regular beers.

Q. Can non-alcoholic beer cause pancreatitis?

Non-alcoholic beer is unlikely to cause pancreatitis. However, excessive consumption of any beer, including non-alcoholic, can stress the pancreas.

Q. How many calories non-alcoholic beer?

Non-alcoholic beer typically contains around 50-100 calories per 12-ounce serving, depending on the brand and type.

Q. Who can buy non-alcoholic beer?

Non-alcoholic beer can typically be purchased by anyone, including those under the legal drinking age. However, local regulations and store policies might vary, so it’s a good idea to check the rules in your area.

Q. Why is non-alcoholic beer so expensive?

Non-alcoholic beer can be more expensive due to the extra processing required to remove alcohol while retaining flavor and quality. Additionally, lower production volumes, limited supply and higher ingredient costs can contribute to the higher original price.

Q. Will non-alcoholic beer show up on a urine test?

In most cases, this small amount of alcohol is unlikely to show up on a standard urine test. However, frequent consumption could potentially affect results, so it’s always good to be cautious and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

Q. Can you drive after drinking non alcoholic beer?

Yes, you can generally drive after drinking non-alcoholic beer. However, it’s wise to consume it in moderation and ensure that you feel fit to drive.

Non-Alcoholic Beer: From “Nah” to NA

Non-alcoholic beer used to be something of a punchline. O’Douls used to rot on store shelves unceremoniously for months on end until a benevolent grocery store owner likely took it home for some kind of science experiment.

Now, however, NA beers are gaining in popularity and shelf space every day, with buzzy new brands and notable craft brewers throwing their hats in the ring every day in order to compete with the large brewers in the segment – as well as market leader Athletic Brewing Co.

While the flavors have certainly improved massively over the years, and it is admittedly nice not to have to worry about a hangover the day after drinking a few NA brews, that alcoholic snap at the end of each sip of beer is among the best reasons to imbibe that beverage, so losing that does indeed adversely affect the brews.

But the numbers don’t lie, and NA beer is surely here to stay.

Beer Lover’s Guide to Non-Alcoholic Beer

For those who love the taste of beer but want to avoid alcohol, non-alcoholic beer is a great alternative. Learn everything about non-alcoholic beer in this guide.

Share options