Ever wondered what exactly is a non-alcoholic spirit?

We’ve all heard of alcohol-free spirits, but what actually are they and how are they made?

Well, these unique creations are bursting with botanicals, spices, and other natural ingredients that deliver a great alternative to alcoholic drinks.

Non-alcoholic spirits can elevate your sipping experience, without giving you any of the side effects that come along with the real thing. So you get all the flavour, with none of the regrets.

Let’s explore the fascinating nuances of these spirited alternatives and how they’re transforming the way we enjoy drinks.

How Non-Alcoholic Spirits We’re Born

As a category, non-alcoholic spirits really started gaining noticeable momentum in the mid-2010s.

Around this time, there was a broader movement toward healthier lifestyles, including reduced alcohol consumption. You might recall strength training became popular, the “fitness influencer” was born and people became more conscious of calories, sugar intake, and the effects of alcohol on overall health. 

Early non-alcoholic beers and wines had been around for decades, but non-alcoholic spirits that genuinely mimicked the complexity of gin, rum, whiskey, or aperitifs only started appearing around 2014–2016. Brands started trying to create taste experiences that genuinely rivalled the real things, including CleanCo.

From then on, non-alcoholic spirits have become commonplace, offering an inclusive experience for every drinker.

Market research reports from 2020–2023 show double-digit growth rates for non-alcoholic spirits in Europe and North America, driven both by consumer demand and the expansion of the category in bars and retail.

While the concept of non-alcoholic spirits might seem relatively novel, they draw on a long history of non-alcoholic beverages like mocktails, herbal teas, and infusions which needed improvement. Zero-proof spirits arrived on the scene to capture the depth and complexity of traditional spirits, and offer something other than non-alcoholic beer, wine or soft drinks.

What Are Non-Alcoholic Spirits?

Non-alcoholic spirits, also known as zero-proof or alcohol-free spirits, are beverages designed to mimic the complex flavours and aromas of traditional spirits like gin, whiskey, rum, and aperitifs, but without containing any significant alcohol. 

Unlike non-alcoholic beer or wine, which are typically fermented beverages with alcohol removed, non-alcoholic spirits are crafted specifically from botanicals, herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients to replicate the sensory experience of drinking alcohol.

Key Ingredients in Non-Alcoholic Spirits

The magic of non-alcoholic spirits lies in their carefully selected and expertly blended ingredients. These beverages often feature a complex array of botanicals, herbs, spices, and fruit extracts, each contributing to the overall flavour profile. Common botanicals include juniper, coriander, angelica root, and citrus peels, which are frequently used in gin-like non-alcoholic spirits.

Herbs such as rosemary, basil, and mint add depth and aromatic complexity, while spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves introduce warmth and intrigue. Fruit extracts, including lemon, lime, and orange, provide bright and refreshing notes that balance the other flavours. The combination of these ingredients is carefully calibrated to create a harmonious and satisfying drink that mirrors the experience of traditional spirits.

In addition to botanicals and spices, non-alcoholic spirits may also incorporate other natural ingredients to enhance flavour and mouthfeel. For example, some products use natural sweeteners like agave or honey to add a touch of sweetness, while others might include bittering agents like gentian or quinine to replicate the bitterness found in many alcoholic spirits. The result is a complex and multi-layered beverage that can stand on its own or be used as a key component in cocktails.

How Non-Alcoholic Spirits are Made

The production of non-alcoholic spirits involves a combination of traditional distillation techniques and modern innovation. The process often begins with the selection of high-quality botanicals, herbs, and spices, which are then macerated or steeped in water to extract their flavours. This mixture is then distilled, typically using a copper still, to capture the essential oils and aromatic compounds.

The Process 

Non-alcoholic spirits are usually created through a combination of distillation, infusion, and blending techniques:

- Botanical Infusion: Ingredients like herbs, spices, fruits, and flowers are steeped or distilled to extract flavors.

- Distillation: Some brands use traditional distillation methods to concentrate flavors without producing alcohol.

- Blending: Multiple extracts and natural flavorings are combined to replicate the complexity of alcoholic spirits.

The final product is a beverage that provides a similar taste profile to traditional spirits and can be used in cocktails, mocktails, or enjoyed neat.

Where to Buy Non-Alcoholic Spirits

People opt for non-alcoholic spirits for a variety of reasons. 

- Health reasons: Often health reasons might kickstart a period of sobriety.

- Expecting mums: Those expecting who still want to be part of it often opt for non-alcoholic spirits.

- Sober curiosity: Some sober-curious folk opt to drink n/a once in a while.

- Weight loss efforts: For those on diets, non-alcoholic drinks are lower in calories.

- Alcohol-free challenges: Dry Jan, Dry July & Sober October can all influence drinking choices.

- Inclusivity: Allows individuals who avoid alcohol for religious or personal reasons to enjoy sophisticated drinks.

Non-alcoholic spirits are fun, flavorful, and let everyone join the cocktail party. Whether you’re mixing mocktails, trying something new, or just curious, there’s a growing range of tasty options out there. 

Shop our full range of non-alcoholic spirits now.