If you’re looking for a delicious, yet non-alcoholic wine alternative, then you’ll enjoy sipping these top non-alcoholic wines that are becoming more and more popular.
Whether you’re a total novice to these top non-alcoholic wines or an expert, this ultimate guide is your go-to source for discovering the tastiest nonalcoholic wines that are on the market today.
From reds and whites to sparkling wines, get ready to savor some of the most delightful alcohol-free wines with the same great aroma and notes you’d expect in traditional wines.
Do Any Non-Alcoholic Wines Really Taste Like Wine?
Non-alcoholic wine can taste like regular wine in many ways, as they go through the same vinification process as regular wine.
This means non-alcoholic wines can have flavors, aromas, dryness, tastes, and mouthfeel just like regular wine. Just to be clear, these wines can also be labeled “dealcoholized wines.”
But is non-alcoholic wine reminiscent of mere fruit juice? Not at all, connoisseurs! Firstly though, one must steer clear of subpar dealcoholized libations that resort to an abundance of artificial additives to mask the absence of alcohol. Those additives aren’t good for you anyway.
While it may have a sweeter taste than what you’re accustomed to, premium labels strive to infuse their products with unique and complex flavors that elevate the overall sensory experience.
You’ll find that these top nonalcoholic wines offer a delicate interplay of acidity and fruit-forwardness that characterizes the palates of certain wines, while others are more inclined towards one end of the spectrum.
We’d add that sparkling wines and white wines offer an experience that more closely mimics their boozy counterparts in terms of flavor, compared to the reds.
In essence, non-alcoholic wine aficionados can delight in the fact that superior brands are able to permeate their creations with captivating aromas, exquisite flavor profiles, and even delicate tannins that define traditional wine, all thanks to this innovative winemaking process.
So, high-end brands of non-alcoholic wine are initiated just like any other traditional wine, with all the utmost care and precision of any master vintner.
What To Look for in Non-Alcoholic Wine
If you’re someone who wants to cut back on alcohol while still enjoying the taste of wine, then these top non-alcoholic wines are a great option.
However, shopping for it can be confusing since labeling and terminology in the category can be inconsistent. This guide will help you understand what to look for in non-alcoholic wine.
Non-alcoholic wine is a type of wine that has had its alcohol content removed or reduced to less than 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume).
It’s made using the same grapes and processes as regular wine, but the alcohol is removed through various methods like reverse osmosis, vacuum distillation, or spinning cone columns.
This allows for the preservation of the wine’s flavor and aroma while removing the alcohol.
According to FDA guidelines, any wine containing less than 0.5% alcohol qualifies as non-alcoholic.
To be called “alcohol-free,” it must have 0.0% alcohol. It’s important to note that some drinks labeled non-alcoholic may still contain tiny amounts of alcohol, which is true for many types of food and drink.
To help put things in perspective, a burger bun can be up to 1.28% ABV and a very ripe banana can be up to 0.4% ABV. Even rye bread can’t escape a touch of ethanol being up to 0.18% ABV. There’s some food for thought next time you crave a pastrami sandwich from one of our top Jewish delis.
Where to Buy Non-Alcoholic Wine
These top non-alcoholic wines are becoming increasingly popular due to people identifying as “sober curious” and choosing to examine their relationship with alcohol. As a result, there are more high-quality options available.
But as we mentioned, shopping for non-alcoholic wine can still be tricky due to inconsistent labeling and terminology. It’s best to check online or at specialty stores so you can search for a variety of non-alcoholic wines across different regions.
Pricing can be the same as any moderately priced wine, say around the US$15 range, and can also crest the US$100 mark. At least they’re nowhere near the cost of these pricey California cult wines.
Remember, some non-alcoholic wines may contain alcohol, while others marketed as non-alcoholic wines are simply juice. It is therefore essential to look for dealcoholized wine or true non-alcoholic wine rather than grape juice. Zero Proof is a good place to start, they also offer our best non-alcoholic spirits.
Is There Any Truly Alcohol-Free Wine?
A truly non-alcoholic wine is crafted through the process of de-alcoholization – a technique that involves allowing the grapes to undergo the traditional fermentation and vinification process, ultimately producing a fully alcoholic product that is then expertly stripped of its alcohol content.
But be aware: while most of these top non-alcoholic wines are virtually alcohol-free, some may still contain small traces of alcohol due to natural fermentation during the production process.
What Makes a Good Nonalcoholic Wine?
Firstly, it is important to note that high-quality non-alcoholic wines are not made from unfermented grapes but go through the very same process used in regular wines. The wine is fermented with yeasts and undergoes vinification. Therefore, a good non-alcoholic wine should be made using the same process as regular wine.
You’ll most likely find some minimal trace of alcohol in these types of wines. At least if you’re looking for something as close to the real thing as possible.
One of the problems with non-alcoholic wines is that they often lack the nuanced characteristics found in regular wine such as tannins, floral notes, and herbaceous aromatics. However, there are non-alcoholic wines in the market that taste just as good as regular wines, if not better.
For instance, Leitz Eins Zwei Zero Chardonnay has been recommended by many as a light and crisp non-alcoholic wine with a long aftertaste.
Top non-alcoholic wines should deliver a full spectrum of flavors achieved through fermentation and vinification. It should also be labeled correctly to avoid confusion among consumers. Additionally, taste should never be sacrificed when choosing a non-alcoholic wine.
Some of the best non-alcoholic wines include Ariel Cabernet Sauvignon, Sutter Home Fre Moscato, and St. Regis Dealcoholized Cabernet Sauvignon.
The shelf life for these types of wines is also much shorter than traditional wines, so best if you drink them within 2 years of purchase.
Best Non-Alcoholic White Wines
For those new to the wonderful world of wine, Riesling is a standout choice. These grapes give rise to a tantalizing array of light and aromatic white wines, ranging from dry to delectably sweet.
With a delightful hint of fruity sweetness, Riesling is the perfect drink to ease novice wine enthusiasts into the complex and nuanced flavors of the vineyard.
Ariel Chardonnay
Made from California grapes, this chardonnay is light and refreshing with aromas of green apple and pear. This non-alcoholic wine boasts a unique blend of tropical fruit essence and delicate oak essence from barrel aging.
As you savor every sip, relish the heavenly fusion of velvety apple and rich butterscotch flavors, further accentuated by a tantalizing bouquet of toasty French oak. And, as time passes by, witness this wine’s complexity unravel and mature into a heavenly masterpiece.
St.Regis Shiraz Rose Non-Alcoholic Wine
Rosé has become a beloved libation for wine enthusiasts all year long, offering a versatile companion to a diverse array of delectable fare. And now, we can enjoy this stellar non-alcoholic wine version that tantalizes even the most discerning taste buds.
A sip of this zippy palate evokes bursts of red currants, raspberries, and citrus that culminate in a lingering, full-bodied finish. Chill it to perfection and pair it with smoked ham and melon, crab cakes, or fried appetizers for a feast that satisfies every craving.
Carl Jung Riesling
This German-made nonalcoholic wine has a sweet, floral taste with hints of peach and apricot. Germany’s grape of choice reigns supreme with Riesling, a once-overlooked gem that has now ascended to the celestial heights of the white wine universe.
Thriving in widespread cultivation, its undeniable allure and intoxicatingly crisp taste have garnered it a standing ovation from wine enthusiasts worldwide. This is an excellent wine if you are just getting started in the nonalcoholic wine world.
Leitz Eins Zwei Zero Riesling
A sip of this, and you’ll indulge in the exquisite essence of this Riesling, as it unfurls a myriad of flavors that can only be attained through the meticulous processes of fermentation and vinification.
You’ll experience the irresistible charm of EINS-ZWEI-ZERO Sparkling Riesling, a dazzling alcohol-free wine that sparkles with freshness and juicy appeal.
With a crisp apple flavor and elegant bubbles that harmonize seamlessly with the balanced acidity, this wine is the perfect complement to mussels and light pasta, truffled or with seafood.
Whether it’s a celebratory toast or a laid-back aperitif, this alcohol-free delight adds a touch of magic to any occasion, all year round.
1920 Wines – Pinot Grigio
For those Pinot Grigio aficionados who prefer to skip the booze, this non-alcoholic version is a dream come true.
With all the charm and character of its alcoholic counterpart, this dry, Italian-style white wine delights the senses.
With a medium body and a bright, citrusy palate that dances with flavors of nashi pear and green apple.
And when it comes to balance, this white wine has it in spades, with a crisp, dry finish and that classic Pinot Grigio mouthfeel that’ll leave you feeling refreshed and oh-so-satisfied.
Plus & Minus Chardonnay
Here we find a tantalizing sight of a pale-yellow hue, with a taste that captures a fruity bouquet of succulent stone fruit, luscious melon, and crisp apple, with a delightful nutty touch of integrated oak.
Your senses will love the creamy palate that lavishes you with generous servings of bright fruit flavors and a decent concentration that lingers on your taste buds.
Finally, there’s a finish that combines the zesty tang of citrus fruit with clean acidity, leaving you yearning for more. This chardonnay boasts a rich flavor profile, with notes of peach, apricot, and vanilla.
Giesen 0%
This New Zealand winery produces a non-alcoholic Sauvignon Blanc with vibrant acidity and citrusy notes. Made from their premium full-strength Sauvignon Blanc, Giesen 0% keeps all the best qualities of the Giesen Estate winemaking process.
Unleashing a symphony of scents and flavors, this libation tantalizes the senses with its refreshing crispness and familiar varietal notes.
The only difference? Gentle extraction of its intoxicating essence, leaving behind a pure, unadulterated beverage. The final blend is a dry, refreshing style of non-alcoholic wine with low calories, containing no more than 0.5% alc/vol.
Dr. Zenzen
This Riesling is a great option for those looking for a sweet and fruity wine, with hints of apple and honey. With this top non-alcoholic wine, there’s the essence of succulent yellow peaches, juicy pineapples, and luscious red-cheeked apples that will dance upon your senses.
With Dr. Zenzen, you’ll savor the velvety sweetness, as freshly cut fruit flavors burst forth on your palate, leading to a perfect harmony of acidity and sweetness, all culminating in a breathtaking mineral finish.
Tread Softly
This Pinot Grigio has a light body with subtle floral aromas and a hint of citrus. Crafted through an exclusive ultra-membrane technique, this extraordinary assortment of alcohol-free wines is a product of handpicked, top-tier Australian vineyard grapes.
Every drop boasts a vibrancy and richness in flavor, expertly preserved even after the alcohol has been extracted.
This exquisite Pinot Grigio varietal, teasing the senses with alluring scents of succulent pear and freshly sliced apple, is accompanied by a delightful burst of vibrant florals and citrus.
The palate delivers a crisp and refreshing experience, with the tantalizing tang of zesty lemon peel and juicy nashi pear flavors, culminating in a perfect balance of refreshing acidity.
Luminara Chardonnay
Crafted in the heart of California’s famed Napa Valley, this exquisite wine tantalizes the palate with luscious notes of crisp green apple, succulent tropical fruit, and creamy lemon.
Elevated by aging in a harmonious blend of French and American oak, it reveals delicate whispers of aromatic baking spices that dance across the tongue, culminating in a radiant, enduring finish.
Perfectly paired with a sumptuous cheese board, decadent seared scallops, or any savory poultry dish, this wine is a true masterpiece of the vine.
Best Non-Alcoholic Red Wines
Are you looking for the perfect non-alcoholic red wine to sip on? From fruit-forward options to bold finishes, you’ll find that there is a non-alcoholic red wine for everyone.
Hill Street Wine’s Vin (Zero) Merlot Non-Alcoholic Red Wine
For a more approachable top-rated non-alcoholic red wine, try Hill Street Wine’s Vin (Zero) Merlot Non-Alcoholic Red Wine. With familiar notes of black currant, blackberry, and other fresh fruit, and a nice tannic-rich finish, this Merlot is a great choice for nearly any occasion, from warm summer afternoons to cozy winter nights.
Le Petit Chavin Non-Alcoholic Merlot Red Wine
Crafted in France using grapes picked from Old World vineyards, Le Petit Chavin Non-Alcoholic Merlot Red Wine is a standout entry on this list.
With a rich red color and bold finish, this non-alcoholic red wine maintains all the original properties you’d expect from a traditional French Merlot, just without the alcohol.
Ariel Cabernet Sauvignon Non-Alcoholic Red Wine
Ariel is a well-known brand in the world of non-alcoholic wines, and Cabernet Sauvignon Non-Alcoholic Red Wine is no exception. With its deep, rich flavor and full-bodied taste, this wine is a favorite among those who are looking for a non-alcoholic alternative to traditional wines.
The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes used in the making of this wine are carefully selected and blended to create a complex and well-balanced flavor profile. This wine pairs perfectly with red meat dishes, hearty stews, and strong cheeses.
Whether you’re a teetotaler or just looking to cut back on your alcohol consumption, Ariel’s Cabernet Sauvignon Non-Alcoholic Red Wine is a delicious and satisfying choice.
YOURS Non-Alcoholic Wine California Cabernet Sauvignon
If you’re a fan of Cabernet Sauvignon, you won’t be disappointed with YOURS Non-Alcoholic Wine California Cabernet Sauvignon. With less than 0.5% alcohol by volume, this non-alcoholic red wine is perfect for those looking to reduce their alcohol intake without sacrificing taste.
Featuring notes of black cherry, vanilla, and oak, and a smooth finish, this Cabernet Sauvignon is a great option for any occasion.
Be Well Non-Alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon
This surprising non-alcoholic option offers up aromas of fresh plum and dark cherry, followed by a rich and fruity flavor profile.
While it does have a touch of sweetness and lacks the warming sensation of alcohol, it’s perfect for sipping on its own or paired with your favorite meal.
St. Regis Non-Alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon
With a nose of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla, this non-alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon from St. Regis delivers a robust and layered flavor profile.
Made using traditional winemaking techniques, this wine is perfect for those looking to indulge without the alcohol.
Ultimately, the best non-alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon for you will depend on your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a fruity and sweet option or a more robust and complex flavor profile, there’s sure to be a non-alcoholic wine out there that fits the bill.
Best Non-alcoholic “Sparkling Wines
If you’re looking for a nonalcoholic alternative to Champagne or sparkling wine, there are plenty of options available that are just as delicious and festive.
From alcohol-free Prosecco to canned sparkling wine, there’s something for everyone.
Noughty Alcohol-Free Sparkling Chardonnay
One standout option is Noughty Alcohol-Free Sparkling Chardonnay, which has a dry, velvety flavor with notes of apple and peach, delicately crafted from the finest chardonnay vines that bask in the sun-kissed south of Spain.
Revel in the perfect balance of sweetness, as the vibrant flavors of juicy apple and succulent pear tantalize your taste buds. Experience the exhilarating effervescence of this wine as it dances on your palate, leaving you refreshed and invigorated.
And just as the sun sets on a perfect summer’s day, this wine’s finish leaves a hint of sweetness, reminding you of the blissful moments shared with friends and family.
Non7 Stewed Cherry & Coffee
If you’re looking for something different, Non7 by Australian company Non is worth trying. This lightly caffeinated option has flavors of pink peppercorns, nutmeg, and sour cherry, making it a unique choice for those who want something outside the traditional sparkling wine flavor profile.
Sutter Home Fre Brut
This sparkling wine mesmerizes your senses with the tantalizing scent of green apple and pear. The crisp flavors of apple dance on your palate, while the fragrance of green apple and ripe pear serenades your olfactory senses.
Delightfully well-balanced, this bubbly masterpiece is crowned with a dry, refreshing finish that leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Pierre Chavin Perle Rose Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rose Wine
For those who prefer a touch of sweetness, Pierre Chavin Perle Rose Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rose Wine is a great option. It blends raspberry and chamomile with a hint of salt for a sweet and savory profile with a subtle tannic bite.
Studio Null Sparkling Verdejo
Finally, you can indulge in a non-alcoholic beverage that captures the essence and charm of the Rueda region, with Studio Null’s sparkling Verdejo.
Crafted with the signature grape of the region, this tantalizing option boasts the purest hints of pear and green apple, culminating in a satisfyingly crisp finish. Savor the delightful alternative it offers to conventional sparkling wines and relish the character it exudes.
Conclusion
Explore the realm of non-alcoholic wine by delving into your preferences for varietals and regions of origin. You’ll enjoy new experiences by sampling the non-alcoholic equivalents of your favorite blends.
If you’re drawn to the robust flavors of red wine, discover the berry and vanilla notes of a non-alcoholic cabernet sauvignon. For lovers of light and fruity whites, a non-alcoholic chardonnay with citrus undertones will satisfy your taste buds.
Even those who relish the effervescence of sparkling wine can find pleasure in a non-alcoholic bubbly that captures the essence of conventional pours. Let your palate explore a whole new world with these top alcohol-free wines.