Best Non Alcoholic Beers in 2023: Complete Reviews With Comparisons

Craving the crisp satisfaction of a cold beer but want to skip the buzz?

The best non alcoholic beers have come a long way, offering a welcome alternative for those seeking the taste without the alcohol content.

Whether you’re a designated driver, a fitness enthusiast, or just looking to unwind without the hangover, we’ve got you covered.

From the hoppy depths of IPAs to the comforting embrace of stouts, we will help you find the perfect NA beer to quench your thirst.

Best Non Alcoholic Beer Reviews

1. Athletic Brewing Company Free Wave Hazy IPA

Athletic Brewing Company’s Free Wave Hazy IPA is a non-alcoholic beer that boasts an abundance of Amarillo, Citra, and Mosaic hops.

Perfect for scenic drives along the Pacific Coast Highway or bike rides up the coast, this beer captures the essence of an adventurous spirit.

Here are some features of Free Wave Hazy IPA:

• Taste: Bursting with citrus and hoppy flavors, this mouth-watering IPA is complemented by a slightly hazy appearance. It possesses a woody and resinous backdrop, balanced with a wheat-centric essence.
• Ingredients: Just like traditional beers, the Free Wave Hazy IPA is crafted using malt, barley, wheat, hops, and yeast. This ensures an authentic beer experience without the alcohol.
• Calories: Each can of the Free Wave Hazy IPA contains 70 calories.
• Availability: Packaged in six-packs, it can be easily purchased online or at select retailers.

Athletic Brewing Company’s Free Wave Hazy IPA is an ideal choice for those desiring a flavorful, non-alcoholic beer experience. Its refreshing taste and authentic ingredients make it a standout in the world of non-alcoholic beverages.

2. Heineken 0.0

Heineken 0.0 is a non-alcoholic beer brewed using the renowned Heineken’s unique A-yeast.

Made with utmost care, this beverage is designed to cater to those who wish to savor the taste of beer without the accompanying alcohol.

Here’s a closer look at the Heineken 0.0:

• Taste: It kicks off with a flavor profile mirroring its alcoholic counterpart. The crisp taste is characterized by a malty body and fruity notes. But even though it starts with a bang, the absence of alcohol means it doesn’t sustain the same depth of flavor. Instead, it ends with a gentle cereal undertone that fades swiftly.
• Ingredients: Made with natural ingredients like water, malted barley, hop extract, tangy lemon juice, and Heineken’s special A-yeast, the beer ensures an authentic taste. This combination results in a gentle malty body with a unique yeast character.
• Appearance: The Heineken 0.0 flaunts a fresh golden hue and is slightly clearer than its alcoholic version.
• Characteristics: The beer stands out for anyone who wants the sensation of sipping a beer minus the alcoholic heaviness. With fewer carbs, fewer calories, and zero alcohol, it is an ideal choice for mainstream beer enthusiasts who are health-conscious.

Heineken 0.0 delivers a taste reminiscent of traditional Heineken but caters to those seeking a lighter, non-alcoholic option. Its refreshing taste and quality ingredients make it a top pick among non-alcoholic beers.

3. Clausthaler Classic

Clausthaler Classic is a refreshing non-alcoholic beer that stands out in the world of brews without the buzz. Here are some features of Clausthaler Classic:

• Taste: This delightful option offers beer enthusiasts the best of both worlds. It boasts a crisp, slightly bitter taste that carries a malty flavor and a hint of hops, all culminating in a satisfyingly dry finish.
• Ingredients: Clausthaler Classic is made with water, barley malt, hops, and yeast. It does not contain any artificial flavors or colors.
• Brewing Process: What sets Clausthaler Classic apart is its unique brewing process, which ensures an almost negligible alcohol content right from the start. This is different from other non-alcoholic beers that extract the alcohol after the brewing process.
• Calories: Clausthaler Classic contains only 45 calories per 12 oz serving.
• Availability: Clausthaler Classic is available in bottles and cans and can be purchased online or at select retailers.

Overall, Clausthaler Classic is an excellent pick for those who want the genuine beer experience without the alcohol. It has a balanced taste, is made with natural ingredients, and is low in calories.

4. Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber

Indulge in the rich flavors of the Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber, a non-alcoholic gem that mirrors the essence of a traditional brew. Here are some features of the Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber:

• Taste: The Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber has a taste that is similar to a regular beer, but without the alcohol. It has a hoppy flavor with notes of grapefruit and a clean, bitter finish. The beer is also described as having a bready sweetness, which adds depth to the experience.
• Ingredients: The Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber’s ingredient list remains pure, comprising water, barley malt, hops, and yeast, without any artificial additives.
• Brewing Process: What truly sets it apart is the unique fermentation method, which expertly cultivates beer’s character. The beer is brewed using a special fermentation method that develops the flavors, aromas, and character of beer without the alcohol. It is then generously dry-hopped to give it lively hop notes.
• ABV: The Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber has an ABV of less than 0.5%.
• Availability: The beer is available in six 12 oz cans and can be purchased online or at select retailers.

The Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber stands as a delectable, hop-packed non-alcoholic brew, tailored for those savoring beer’s taste without the alcohol kick.

Crafted from pure, natural ingredients, it culminates in a refreshingly clean, bitter finish. This makes it an ideal choice for the discerning palate seeking a full beer experience without the ABV.

5. Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher

Quench your thirst with Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher, a creation from the Lagunitas Brewing Company that redefines non-alcoholic beverages. It’s a guilt-free, flavorful alternative that’ll tantalize your taste buds.

Here are some features of Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher:

• Taste: Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher is a carbonated, dry-hopped sparkling water drink inspired by IPAs. It offers a zippy and zingy experience with a hoppy flavor, accompanied by refreshing citrus notes and a clean finish.
• Ingredients: Crafted from water, hops, yeast, and other natural flavors, Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher contains zero alcohol, carbs, and calories, making it a guilt-free choice.
• Brewing Process: Lagunitas employs a special process involving brewer’s yeast, which biotransforms the hops to draw out their flavors and aromas. The result is a beer-inspired beverage, akin to an IPA but without the alcohol.
• Variety Pack: Lagunitas also presents a Hoppy Refresher Variety Pack, featuring a trio of sparkling hop water varieties: Hoppy Refresher, Blood Orange, and Berry+Lemon, providing diverse and refreshing options for your taste buds.

Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher stands as a refreshing, zesty, and hop-infused option. It encapsulates the essence of an IPA but without the alcohol, all crafted from natural ingredients.

6. Samuel Adams Just the Haze Boston

Samuel Adams Just the Haze Boston is a non-alcoholic hazy IPA that redefines the art of non-alcoholic brewing. Ideal for those who crave the essence of beer minus the alcohol, this brew takes you on a flavorful journey.

• Taste: Samuel Adams Just the Haze Boston offers a remarkable, juicy hazy IPA experience. Bursting with a pronounced hop aroma, it boasts vibrant citrus notes that ensure a satisfying, full-bodied mouthfeel.
• Ingredients: Crafted with precision, this brew consists of water, malted barley, wheat, hops, yeast, and natural flavors. Together, they create an authentic beer taste without the presence of alcohol.
• Calories: While the official caloric content isn’t specified on the official website, it’s noteworthy that according to beer enthusiasts, it may contain more calories compared to Athletic Brewing Company’s Free Wave Hazy IPA.
• Availability: For those eager to experience Samuel Adams Just the Haze Boston, it’s easily accessible online and can be found at select retailers.

Samuel Adams Just the Haze Boston shines as a flavorful, juicy, and authentic hazy IPA. For those who cherish the taste of beer but prefer the absence of alcohol, this brew ticks all the right boxes.

7. Ceria Grainwave Belgian White

The Ceria Grainwave Belgian White, a captivating unfiltered Belgian-style white ale that redefines the non-alcoholic beer experience. It offers a unique twist on a classic-style beer, inviting those who crave the beer’s taste without the alcohol to indulge.

• Taste: The Ceria Grainwave Belgian Wit welcomes you with a crisp and invigorating profile. Its taste is a harmonious blend of flavors with a subtle bitterness, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts of Belgian wit beers.
• Ingredients: Distinguished by its exceptional additions of orange peel and coriander, this beer embraces an aromatic twist that elevates its overall flavor profile. In addition to traditional ingredients like water, barley malt, wheat, hops, and yeast, these elements set it apart.
• Calories: For the calorie-conscious, Ceria Grainwave Belgian Wit boasts a modest 80 calories per 12 oz serving, ensuring a refreshingly guilt-free experience.
• Availability: Ready to explore the world of Ceria Grainwave Belgian Wit? This delightful non-alcoholic Belgian-style white ale is easily accessible online and awaits discovery at select retailers.

Ceria Grainwave Belgian Wit, an unfiltered Belgian-style white ale, offers a revitalizing and flavorful journey for those seeking the essence of beer without the alcohol. Crafted with a unique blend of natural ingredients, it boasts a well-balanced, slightly bitter taste with fruity undertones.

Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the right non-alcoholic beer is more than just about the absence of alcohol. It’s also about savoring an authentic beer experience without the side effects. As you navigate through the myriad options available, here are vital factors to consider:

• Verification and Certification: Ensure the credibility of the producer. Look for certifications verifying the authenticity and contents of the non-alcoholic beer to guarantee product safety and quality.
• Ingredients: Analyze the list of ingredients. Watch out for unnecessary additives, artificial flavors, or any other components you might be sensitive to.
• Storage Requirements: Different beers may have distinct storage needs. Make sure to store them as recommended to maintain freshness and flavor.
• Actual Alcohol Content: Non-alcoholic doesn’t always mean 0% alcohol. Confirm the alcohol content to make sure it aligns with your preferences or needs.
• Regulatory Advisories: Stay informed about any regulatory advisories or specifics related to non-alcoholic beer in your region or country.
• Flavor Profile: The taste of non-alcoholic beers can vary. Pick one that resonates with your palate, whether you prefer hoppy, malty, light, or robust flavors.
• Health Benefits: Some non-alcoholic beers offer added health advantages, like being low in calories and carbs or enriched with B vitamins. Factor these in if you’re health-conscious.
• Sobriety Considerations: For those in recovery or maintaining sobriety, choose a beer that doesn’t trigger cravings and aligns with your journey.
• Variety: The world of non-alcoholic beers is vast. Consider the diversity available, from ales to lagers to stouts, and pick what best suits your occasion.
• Customer Demand (For Businesses): If you are a retailer or business owner, take note of the rising demand for non-alcoholic beverages. Catering to this market can boost your sales and customer satisfaction.
• ID Requirements: Even though it’s non-alcoholic, some retailers might ask for ID due to trace alcohol content. Be prepared to show proof of age if needed.

FAQs

What is a non-alcoholic beer?

Non-alcoholic beer is a beverage that mimics the taste of traditional beer but contains little to no alcohol, typically less than 0.5% ABV. It is brewed in a similar way to regular beer, but the alcohol is removed or reduced to a negligible amount.

Is there a true non-alcoholic beer?

Non-alcoholic beers are not 100% alcohol-free. Federal law states that non-alcoholic beer must have less than 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume).

Can kids drink non-alcoholic beer?

Even if a beer has zero alcohol, pediatricians say that it is best not to let kids sip on non-alcoholic beer. Doing so is similar to letting kids take a drag on candy cigarettes, something most modern parents agree isn’t a great idea.

Non-alcoholic beer can introduce alcohol to kids. Research shows that teens who have consumed non-alcoholic beer have more interest in consuming alcoholic beverages.

Are non-alcoholic beers completely alcohol-free?

Not always. While some non-alcoholic beers have 0% alcohol, many contain a trace amount, usually less than 0.5% ABV. It is always a good idea to check the label if you are aiming for complete abstinence.

Do non-alcoholic beers taste like regular beers?

Yes, many non-alcoholic beers are crafted to replicate the taste of their alcoholic counterparts. However, the flavor can vary between brands and styles, with some tasting very close to regular beer and others having a slightly different profile.

What Non Alcoholic Beer Should You Get?

The Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber is the best non alcoholic beer among the five options. It has a hoppy flavor with notes of grapefruit and a clean, bitter finish.

The beer is brewed using a special fermentation method that develops the flavors, aromas, and character of beer without the alcohol. It is also made with natural ingredients and has zero alcohol, carbohydrates, and calories.

Additionally, it is a Great American Beer Festival gold medal winner in the non-alcoholic beer category. Overall, the Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects Hoppy Amber is a flavorful and refreshing non-alcoholic beer perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste of beer without the alcohol.