The Ultimate Guide To Non-Alcoholic Gin

Step into the vibrant world of non-alcoholic gin, where all the complexity and character of traditional gin come without the alcohol.

Crafted with aromatic botanicals like juniper, citrus, and spices, non-alcoholic gin delivers the same distinctive flavour profile that gin lovers know and love - perfect for mindful drinking.

In this guide, we’ll explore how distillers create high-quality non-alcoholic gins, the best ways to enjoy them in cocktails, and why they’re becoming a favourite choice for both sober-curious drinkers and seasoned mixology fans alike.

How is non-alcoholic gin made?

Crafting alcohol-free gin is an intricate process that harmonises botanicals, distillation techniques, and cutting-edge technology.

Non-alcoholic gin is made using many of the same principles as traditional gin, but without retaining the alcohol in the final product. Distillers start by selecting a blend of botanicals, commonly juniper berries, coriander, citrus peel, cardamom, and other herbs or spices, that define gin’s signature flavour. These botanicals are steeped or distilled to extract their aromas and flavours.

For some producers, the process begins with an alcoholic base that’s distilled in copper stills to capture concentrated botanical essences, which are then carefully de-alcoholised through methods like vacuum distillation.

Others use alcohol-free distillation techniques from the start, such as steam distillation or maceration in water, to keep the product 0.0% ABV. The result is non-alcoholic gin that delivers the same complexity, aroma, and mouthfeel as traditional gin—perfect for cocktails or sipping neat without the effects of alcohol.

Does non-alcoholic gin actually taste like gin?

Yep - it uses all the same botanicals and tastes just like gin, minus the alcohol.

Juniper berries, the key ingredient in gin, is often what gives it that distinctive taste and makes it unmistakably gin.

How is non-alcoholic gin made

There are a few ways you can make na gin, most commonly distillation.

Distillation of Gin

With distillation, the first step is the maceration of the botanicals. This involves soaking the selected botanicals in a neutral alcohol base to extract their flavours and aromas. 

After maceration, the liquid is then distilled using traditional methods such as pot distillation or vapour infusion. Pot distillation involves heating the liquid and capturing the evaporated alcohol and aromatic compounds, which are then condensed back into a liquid form. Meanwhile vapour involves passing steam through the botanicals, allowing the vapour to extract the flavours and aromas before condensing into a liquid.

Removal of alcohol content in zero alcohol gin

Then, the alcohol content is removed through various techniques. One common method is vacuum distillation, where the liquid is subjected to low pressure, causing the alcohol to evaporate at a lower temperature.

Another method is reverse osmosis, where the liquid is passed through a membrane that selectively removes the alcohol molecules while leaving behind the desired flavours and aromas. These techniques ensure that the alcohol is effectively removed while preserving the intricate flavours of the non-alcoholic gin.

Whether you're a curious teetotaler or just looking to diversify your drink options, non-alcoholic gin promises a flavourful and satisfying journey that celebrates both the art and science of beverage crafting. Cheers to discovering new tastes and enjoying the complexity of gin, alcohol-free!