More and more though, the cold ones we’re reaching for aren’t the type our parents used to throw back at barbecues and on the weekends. Australians are now growing more conscious of the downsides alcohol has on our lives. We’ve seen the negative effects of drinking alcohol for the sake of it, and we’re choosing to challenge old-fashioned habits. With the non-alcoholic drinks market expected to continue growing annually, breweries and wineries have caught on and are racing to quench our non-alcoholic thirst.
At Craftzero, we’ve put our hands up to find the best non-alcoholic drinks Australia and the world have to offer. That means the hunt to find your next favourite non-alcoholic drink is over, and you’ll still enjoy that much deserved end-of-the-day cold one, minus any of the alcoholic downsides.
What are the benefits of non-alcoholic drinks
If you’re looking to be more mindful about the booze you are drinking, cut out alcohol from your life, or just see what all the hype is about, there’s never been a better time to sample the best non-alcoholic beers on offer. Here’s why we think you should pull up a pew and join us for a non-alcoholic drink:
- You’ll bring on the good vibes. Without the effects of alcohol, you can expect your mental health to be in a much better place.
- You’ll kiss the beer gut goodbye. Non-alcoholic drinks are generally lower in calories, making them healthier for a balanced diet. You can always easily find their full nutritional information too.
- You’ll stay as sharp as a razor. Being sober means your bants will be slur-free and you can stay present in all of life’s important events.
- Your glass will always be full. Thanks to today’s modern techniques, there is a non-alcoholic version to all your favourite tipples and this includes the best non-alcoholic wine in red, white and sparkling varieties and the best non-alcoholic spirits like gins, whiskeys and rums.
If we’ve piqued your curiosity and your taste buds with those alcohol-free benefits, allow us to get into why we think non-alcoholic drinks should be your next favourite pour.
1. Non-alcoholic drinks taste the part
Back in the day, it was easy to spot the designated driver. They were usually the ones sulking in the corner with a fizzy soft drink in hand. We can understand the desire to chuck a sickie when it was your turn to stay below .05 because of the dismal selection of alternatives.
Thanks to the increase in demand and a growing number of passionate manufacturers though, you don't have to work too hard to find a non-alcoholic version of your favourite bevvy. The best non-alcoholic drinks look and taste just like their alcoholic counterparts without any of the nasty downsides. It’s why so many alcohol aficionados are switching things up and giving non-alcoholic drinks a red hot go.
2. Non-alcoholic drinks are low in calories
If you’re trying to shed a few kilos or trying to get a little more shredded, it’s simple maths that alcoholic drinks are generally much higher in calories — which won’t do much to help your pants size or support you in smashing gym goals.
But if you start trading your high-carb beer for a tasty non-alcoholic beer, that old favourite pair of jeans you’ve been hanging onto might suddenly become an option again. Non-alcoholic beers can be up to 80% less in calories compared to full-strength beers.
Top tip: We always list the calorie count in our product descriptions so you can be sure to find a non-alcoholic drink that won't mess with your gains.
3. Non-alcoholic drinks help you keep your hand in socially
Aussies are known for nailing it when it comes to drinking culture. Most of us love to congregate around the Esky or the barbie with a drink in hand, but choosing a healthier drink alternative doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the banter and festivities.
Instead of resorting to sugary soft drinks or sparkling water which, let's be honest, doesn’t make for good cheers-ing material, non-alcoholic drinks not only look the part but they also taste just as good as their alcoholic counterparts. We’re not talking out of our hats either — trust us when we say your mates won’t even be able to tell the difference.
Top tip: If you need some non-alcoholic bubbly, there are some great non-alcoholic champagne alternatives that can still get the cork-popping-celebratory-toasts flowing.
4. Non-alcoholic drinks help you stay sober
This one may come as a no-brainer — who would’ve guessed drinking non-alcoholic drinks can’t get you drunk? In fact, all our non-alcoholic drinks we stock are less than <0.5% ABV. To put things into perspective, some ripe bananas have even more alcohol content than in our drinks!
There’s evidence that non-alc drinks produce a placebo effect that makes cutting back on alcohol easier, giving you the feeling of engaging in that time-honoured ritual without the blurry vision and embarrassing dancing.
Top tip: If you’re finding it tough to socialise while sober, having something you’re familiar with like a glass of the best non-alcoholic wine in Australia in your hand makes it much easier to normalise the situation.
5. Non-alcoholic drinks does wonders for your mental health
It's no secret a major contributor to our mental health is a good night's sleep. Having a few stiff drinks may help you nod off quicker, but alcohol dehydrates the body and this causes you to have a less restful sleep — whether it’s to chug some water mid-slumber or to take more frequent trips to the bathroom.
On top of disrupting our sleep, alcohol can take a toll on our mental health by increasing anxiety and stress levels. And let’s face it, the last thing anyone needs is more stress on your plate — or in your glass! Thankfully, we carry a wide range of non-alcoholic beers and non-alcoholic spirits Australia has to offer so you can still have your favourite nightcaps and get in a good night’s sleep.
Top tip: Keep a cold six pack of your favourite non-alcoholic beer in the fridge so if you do suddenly feel the urge to crack a cold one, you’ve got a tasty alternative on hand.
It's time to get on the (non-alcoholic) beers
Whatever your reason is for wanting to lay off the booze, whether it’s to be responsible on the road, being more present with friends and loved ones, or simply looking to make a better lifestyle change, we’ve got some of the best and widest range of non-alcoholic drinks to help you get that familiar taste you love minus any of the booze.
Whether you’re looking for a non-alcoholic wine to complement a hearty meal, some non-alcoholic spirits to knock back during a night in with the boys or a slab of non-alcoholic beers to fill your Esky with at your next Sunday barbie, you’ll find the best non-alcoholic drinks in Australia right here at Craftzero!
