Six Months in the Alcohol-Free Beer World: My Favourite Finds So Far
It’s been roughly six months since I set myself the goal of properly exploring the world of alcohol-free beer, and it’s fair to say it’s been a genuine voyage of discovery.
When I started, I knew the alcohol-free scene had been growing over the past few years. More choice, better quality, and even celebrities getting involved like Tom Holland launching Bero. But what I didn’t realise was just how much the market had exploded.
These days, most major breweries offer alcohol-free versions of their flagship beers, alongside a growing number of newer breweries that specialise entirely in producing high-quality alcohol-free options. The choice now is worlds apart from where it used to be.
So, I thought I’d round up my first year (or thereabouts) by highlighting a few of my standout favourites so far.
Favourite Pub Staple
Back in the 80s and 90s, when I first started going to pubs as a teenager, alcohol-free options were virtually non-existent. Unless you were happy with a soft drink, your only real choice was Kaliber which I’m yet to try, but I don’t hear many glowing reviews!
Fast forward to today and most pubs now stock at least a couple of alcohol-free beers. My two go-to options are Lucky Saint and Guinness 0.0 (which I still need to review properly on Modest Drinker).
Both are safe, satisfying choices that don’t make you feel like you’re compromising on taste during a night out.
Favourite IPA
While choosing a BrewDog beer isn’t exactly a left-field option, I’ve always had a soft spot for a good New England-style hazy IPA and Hazy AF really hits the spot for me.
It delivers the juicy, soft mouthfeel you want from the style, without feeling thin or watery, which is still something many alcohol-free IPAs struggle with.
Favourite Lager
An instant favourite and regular fridge filler for me is Lucky Saint. For my money, it’s the best alcohol-free lager I tried this year.
Clean, refreshing, and incredibly drinkable, it’s the kind of beer that works just as well at home as it does in the pub.
Favourite Left Field Beer
As mentioned earlier, I’m a big fan of a good hazy IPA, and Cult by Mash Gang really delivers. What sets it apart is its rich, fruity flavour profile, which gives it an extra oomph and makes it feel genuinely exciting.
It’s a great example of how alcohol-free beer doesn’t have to play it safe.
Favourite Traditional style beer
Given that Guinness is one of my regular pub choices, it probably won’t surprise you to hear that I enjoy the odd stout when I’m in the mood for something with a bit more substance.
That’s where Drop Bear Stout comes in delivering depth, roastiness, and real flavour without feeling heavy or artificial.
Favourite “Something Different” Beer
If you fancy something a little different from the norm, I’d highly recommend Below Brew’s Brune DMC. It’s a delicious homage to the traditional Belgian Brune style and shows just how broad the alcohol-free category has become.
Looking forward to Next year!
This past year has been a fantastic introduction to the dynamic and ever-evolving world of alcohol-free beer. I’m really looking forward to continuing the journey, discovering more great brews, and sharing the adventure here on Modest Drinker.
Cheers to what’s next
