Alcohol-free drinks: a refreshing change

While it’s true that most of us would probably like to consume less alcohol, it’s also true that enjoying a glass of wine with dinner or a few drinks with friends is a relaxing and pleasurable thing to do. So, what’s the compromise? Rather than going without, consider one of the quality alcohol-free spirits, wines, beers and cocktails that are now available. The best ones taste just as good as the real thing, which means you won’t even notice that there’s no booze included. Even better, there’s no hangover the next day. Try these teetotaller’s tipples next time cocktail hour swings around.

Sobah alcohol-free beer

Sobah wants to break down the stigma of socialising without alcohol. Proudly Aboriginal-owned and led, Sobah was founded by Gamilaroi man and psychologist, Clinton Schultz. The premium alcohol-free craft beer range is infused with native Australian bush tucker, including finger lime, lemon aspen and pepperberry. There are currently five brews in the range. All are chemical and preservative-free.

Find out more at sobah.com.au

Lyre’s alcohol-free spirits

Lyre’s premium range of 12 unique non-alcoholic variants is crafted to pay homage to the flavours of the world’s most classic, time-tested spirits. Two years in development and launched in 2019, Lyre’s was created to give the freedom of a sophisticated no- or low-alcoholic drink while staying social. The range includes London Dry, Amaretto and Dry Vermouth. All have been crafted using all-natural essences, extracts and distillates so as to match the aroma, taste and appearance of the traditional spirit, without using alcohol.

Find out more at lyres.com.au

Altina alcohol-free cocktails

Handcrafted in Canberra, Altina makes zero-proof craft cocktails powered by plants. They’re made with native ingredients such as forestberry and wattleseed, along with more familiar flavours such as organic rose, sweet orange and hops. The calorie and health-conscious can rest assured that they’re made without excess sugar, fruit juices or artificial colours and flavours. The company also creates experiences around alcohol-free living, including bespoke cocktails, alcohol-free events and masterclasses.

Find out more at altinadrinks.com

ALTD Spirits

Inspired by the tastes and sounds of the Australian landscape, ALTD creates 100% alcohol-free distilled Aussie botanicals, all of which come from Indigenous-owned suppliers. Delightfully, the three spirits in the range are named after cicadas: Green Grocer, Silver Princess and Golden Emperor. They’re all-natural, using delicious botanicals such as lemon myrtle, pepperberry, desert lime and wattleseed. They’re all sugar-free and vegan-friendly. Plus, a portion of every bottle sold goes to the Jimmy Little Foundation, which aims to improve health care for Indigenous Australians.

Find out more at altdspirits.com

Maggie Beer non-alcoholic wines

Everyone loves Maggie Beer (us included). So you’ll be happy to know that Maggie makes her own non-alcoholic wines. Sparkling Ruby Cabernet is made with early harvest cabernet grapes; Sparkling Chardonnay is made with early harvest Chardonnay grapes. Both have the mouth feel of a good wine, and are best enjoyed super-chilled. A perfect way to toast some good news without getting toasted.

Find out more at maggibeer.com.au

Seedlip non-alcoholic spirits

The world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit has finally made its way to Australia. Inspired by an ancient book The Art of Distilliation, published in 1651, the company has created three blends, concocted with herbs, spices, peel and bark. Seedlip Garden 108 is a herbal blend of hand-picked peas and traditional garden herb distillates. Spice 94 is an aromatic and complex blend of allspice, bark and citrus distillates. Grove 42 is a zesty and warm blend of orange, lemongrass and ginger. All of them are delicious when served with tonic.

Find out more at seedlipdrinks.com/au