The nonalcoholic beer market in the United States is experiencing a remarkable transformation, with consumers increasingly opting for booze-free alternatives that don't compromise on flavour. According to recent trends, most people who purchase nonalcoholic versions of beer, wine, or spirits tend to switch between alcoholic and nonalcoholic counterparts depending on the situation, reflecting a growing shift towards mindful drinking.
The Golden Age of Nonalcoholic Beer
We are currently living in what many experts describe as the golden age of nonalcoholic beer. Not only are there more options available than ever before, but significant technological advances in brewing have led to products that taste better with each new batch. For instance, many Americans are now exploring sobriety or semi-sobriety, often reaching for a nonalcoholic beer during social occasions like happy hour when they plan to drive later. This allows them to enjoy the social aspect while ensuring a safe journey home.
Understanding the Labels: Nonalcoholic vs. Alcohol-Free
It's crucial for consumers to understand the distinction between "nonalcoholic" and "alcohol-free" beverages. In the United States, beer is legally defined as a malt-based, fermented drink containing over 0.5% alcohol-by-volume (ABV). Beers labelled as "nonalcoholic" may contain up to, but no more than, 0.5% ABV, whereas "alcohol-free" beverages contain no alcohol whatsoever. Always check the label if you aim to avoid alcohol completely.
The 12 Best Nonalcoholic Beers in the US
Here is a curated list of the top nonalcoholic beers available across the United States, spanning various styles from IPAs to dark beers, based on expert recommendations and consumer reviews.
Best Celebrity Nonalcoholic Beer Brand: Bero
Avengers star Tom Holland's brand, Bero, offers premium nonalcoholic beers that stand out in a crowded market. With classic styles like pilsner, wheat beer, and hazy IPA, Bero provides straightforward and enjoyable options for those seeking quality without the alcohol.
Best Nonalcoholic Can Design: RationAle Brewing
RationAle Brewing combines adventure-forward living with artistic can designs, such as cherry blossom motifs and German architecture-inspired labels. These internationally-inspired cans are not only visually stunning but also contain genuinely delicious beers, making them perfect for gifting.
Best Nonalcoholic Fruited Sour: Untitled Art Flvr! NA Mango Dragonfruit Sour
In a market dominated by lagers and IPAs, Untitled Art's mango dragonfruit sour is a standout. This award-winning beer bursts with tropical flavours of mango, guava, and dragonfruit, offering a juicy and tart alternative for poolside sipping.
Best Nonalcoholic Hazy IPA: Athletic Brewing Company Free Wave IPA
Athletic Brewing Company is a pioneer in the nonalcoholic beer movement, and its Free Wave IPA is a testament to their expertise. With a huge hop aroma and notes of pine and citrus, this low-calorie option maintains a lingering bitterness that true hopheads will appreciate.
Best Mainstream Nonalcoholic Beer: Guinness 0
Guinness 0 is a near-clone of the iconic stout, featuring the same smooth, creamy, and roasty characteristics. Many consumers find it indistinguishable from the original, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a familiar taste without the alcohol.
Best Nonalcoholic Ale: Sierra Nevada Trail Pass Golden
Sierra Nevada spent five years perfecting a brewing process that prevents alcohol development, resulting in a supremely drinkable golden ale. This beer is so close to the real thing that it often goes unnoticed at social gatherings like backyard barbecues.
Best Organic Nonalcoholic Beer: Patagonia Provisions NA IPA
In collaboration with Deschutes Brewery, Patagonia Provisions offers an organic NA IPA made with sustainable ingredients like Kernza grain. This beer not only tastes great but also supports environmental efforts, making it a win for both consumers and the planet.
Best Nonalcoholic Witbier: Fremont Brewing Orange Wit
Fremont's NA witbier delivers big, bold citrus flavours in a medium-bodied beer, allowing teetotalers to enjoy this refreshing style. Its sunny character makes it a delightful choice for those who appreciate wheat beers.
Best Nonalcoholic Oktoberfest Beer: Partake Brewing Oktoberfest
Partake Brewing has perfected its Oktoberfest beer with a semi-sweet finish and balanced malt-to-hop ratio, complemented by hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. This beer captures the cozy essence of fall without the alcohol.
Best Nonalcoholic Dark Beer: Deschutes Black Butte Non-Alcoholic Porter
Deschutes' nonalcoholic porter is almost indistinguishable from its alcoholic counterpart, offering a rich, malty mouthfeel with chocolatey flavours. It has earned a World Beer Cup gold medal, cementing its status as a top dark beer option.
Best Nonalcoholic Light Beer: Designated Dale's NA Pils
From Oskar Blues' Dale's line, this NA pilsner is an easy-drinking choice that stays fizzy and fun. With light, crisp hints of floral hops and pilsner malt, it avoids the flatness that plagues some other NA lagers.
Why Trust This Guide
The recommendations are based on insights from a beverage expert with a decade of experience writing for publications like the Washington Post and Food & Wine. Having tried most nonalcoholic beers available to US consumers, the expert notes that today's options are far superior to the "near-beers" of past generations, thanks to ongoing innovation in the industry.
As the nonalcoholic beer market continues to expand, consumers can look forward to even more diverse and high-quality options. Whether you're exploring sobriety, cutting back on alcohol, or simply seeking a tasty alternative, these picks offer something for every palate and occasion.
