Outside of bourbon, the editors of Brostrick love all things beer related. So it only made sense to debut our newest franchise “Bros & Brews” where we cover some of our favorite beers, beer pairings and everything in between. Got a beer recommendation or question for our editors? Ask us at feedback@brostrick.com
Gone are the days when non-alcoholic beers were the underwhelming cousins of their full-strength counterparts. Today, non-alcoholic beers are enjoying a renaissance, with brewers crafting options that are flavorful, complex, and truly satisfying.
Whether you’re taking a break from alcohol, committed to a healthier lifestyle, or simply curious about the world of alcohol-free beverages, non-alcoholic beers offer an exciting array of choices that don’t compromise on taste.
Join us as we explore the rise of non-alcoholic beers and highlight some of the best options the editors here at Brostrick have tasted and recommended that are available for those who want to enjoy all the taste with none of the alcohol. It’s not as bad as it sounds. Really.
1. Heineken 0.0
Heineken 0.0 is crafted using a unique recipe to deliver the same crisp and refreshing taste as the original Heineken beer. The brewers start with natural ingredients like as water, malted barley, and hops, followed by a gentle alcohol removal process. This ensures that the beer retains its balanced, malty body with subtle fruity notes, creating a satisfying drinking experience for those looking to avoid alcohol altogether. The meticulous brewing process allows Heineken 0.0 to maintain the characteristic flavors that fans of Heineken have come to love.
Heineken 0.0 has gained widespread popularity not only due to the high-quality brewing process but also because of the brand’s strong reputation worldwide. It’s a favorite among those who want to enjoy the taste of beer without the effects of alcohol, making it a staple at social and events where people might prefer non-alcoholic options. We’ve also noticed their name being dropped on just about every reality tv show that we’ve been watching recently!
FUN FACT
Heineken 0.0 has been featured in major sporting events and even in movies, highlighting its acceptance in mainstream culture as a premium non-alcoholic option.
2. Clausthaler Original
Clausthaler Original is one of the pioneers in non-alcoholic beer, and its rich, full-bodied taste sets it apart. The beer undergoes a unique brewing process called “controlled fermentation,” where the alcohol production is minimized from the start, rather than being removed afterward. This technique allows Clausthaler to maintain a flavor profile similar to traditional German beers, with a slightly hoppy aroma and a well-rounded malt character. Its crisp finish and robust taste make it an excellent choice for non-alcoholic beer enthusiasts.
Clausthaler has been a leader in the non-alcoholic beer market for years, earning tons of awards for its quality and taste. Its loyal following appreciates the authenticity and craftsmanship that go into every bottle, making it a popular choice in Europe and beyond.
FUN FACT
Clausthaler was one of the first breweries dedicated exclusively to non-alcoholic beers, starting their journey in the 1970s and setting the standard for the industry.
3. Athletic Brewing Co. Run Wild IPA
Athletic Brewing Co. Run Wild IPA offers a well-balanced blend of five Northwest hops, delivering a complex hoppy and citrusy flavor profile that rivals traditional IPAs. The brewery uses an innovative process to brew the beer fully, then removes the alcohol without sacrificing flavor. This results in a beer with vibrant notes of pine, citrus, and a touch of malt sweetness. Its full-bodied character and aromatic profile make it a standout in the non-alcoholic beer world.
Athletic Brewing Co. is highly regarded for its craft non-alcoholic beers, and Run Wild IPA is one of their most popular offerings. It has received accolades from beer enthusiasts and industry experts alike, establishing Athletic Brewing Co. as a pioneer in the non-alcoholic craft beer movement.
FUN FACT
Athletic Brewing Co. was founded by two athletes who wanted to create high-quality non-alcoholic beers that could be enjoyed without compromising their active lifestyles.
4. BrewDog Nanny State
BrewDog’s Nanny State is a hoppy ale with a robust malt backbone and a mix of tropical and citrus notes. It’s packed with flavor, despite its non alcohol content, thanks to the use of eight different malts and a hefty dose of American hops. This combination creates a beer that’s both complex and refreshing, with a bitter finish that will satisfy any hop lover. Nanny State’s depth of flavor and aromatic profile make it an excellent non-alcoholic option for craft beer enthusiasts.
BrewDog is known for its innovative brewing techniques and bold flavors, and Nanny State has become a standout in their lineup of non-alcoholic beers. Its popularity is driven by BrewDog’s reputation for quality and the beer’s ability to deliver a full-flavored experience without the alcohol.
FUN FACT
BrewDog was one of the first breweries to openly challenge traditional beer norms, and Nanny State was created as a response to criticism of their high-ABV beers, proving they could also make an excellent low-ABV beer.
5. Samuel Adams Just the Haze
Just the Haze is a non-alcoholic hazy IPA from Sam Adams that delivers juicy, tropical fruit flavors with a smooth, refreshing finish. The brewers use a blend of hops known for their fruity aromas, including Citra, Mosaic, and Cascade, to create a beer that’s bursting with flavor.
The haze comes from the use of wheat and oats, which add body and mouthfeel, making it difficult to distinguish from a traditional hazy IPA. Just the Haze offers the perfect balance of bitterness and fruitiness, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion.
Samuel Adams is a trusted name in the beer industry, and Just the Haze has quickly gained popularity for its impressive taste and quality. It appeals to both beer aficionados and those seeking non-alcoholic options that don’t compromise on flavor.
FUN FACT
Just the Haze was developed using a proprietary method that allows Samuel Adams to retain all the flavor and character of a traditional hazy IPA without the alcohol.
6. Beck's Blue
Beck’s Blue offers the same crisp and refreshing taste as regular Beck’s beer but without the alcohol. Brewed in accordance with the German Purity Law of 1516, it uses only four ingredients: barley, hops, yeast, and water. This ensures a clean, slightly hoppy flavor with a crisp finish that’s satisfying and refreshing. The light body and balanced taste make Beck’s Blue an excellent choice for those seeking a non-alcoholic beer that still delivers a genuine beer experience.
Beck’s Blue is widely available and well-loved for its authentic beer taste and refreshing qualities. It has a strong presence in both the European and international markets, making it a go-to option for non-alcoholic beer drinkers.
FUN FACT
Beck’s Blue is brewed in the same facilities as regular Beck’s, using the same high-quality ingredients and brewing process, ensuring a consistent and familiar taste.
Let's Call It a Day
Non-alcoholic beers have come a long way, offering delicious and complex flavors that can stand toe-to-toe with their alcoholic counterparts. Whether you’re embracing the sober curious movement, looking for a healthier option, or simply want to enjoy the taste of beer without the buzz, there’s a non-alcoholic beer out there for you!
Fun Fact Sources:
Some of the “Fun Facts” were sourced from the following websites:
