Top-Rated Alcohol-Free Whiskey Brands
In the world of whiskey, a growing number of enthusiasts are seeking an alcohol-free alternative. Matt Reynolds, a barbell coach turned whiskey aficionado, has been taste-testing various zero-proof whiskey options on the market.
One standout is the Free Spirits Spirit of Bourbon. This non-alcoholic whiskey is highly praised for its malty, caramel notes and a gentle burn that mimics the mouthfeel of bourbon. It can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, a rare feat for zero-proof whiskeys, and works well in classic whiskey cocktails like the Old Fashioned without overpowering the other ingredients. It also contains B12 and other nutrients, making it a health-conscious choice.
Another contender is Lyre's American Malt. Designed as a dupe for Scotch whisky lovers, this elegant and complex non-alcoholic whiskey delivers a rich experience similar to the real spirit. It is primarily available in Canada.
Spiritless Kentucky 74 is recommended for making spirit-forward non-alcoholic cocktails, providing an authentic whiskey flavor profile without alcohol.
CleanCo Clean W offers a rich whiskey-inspired flavor profile with low calories and zero alcohol, delivering authenticity in flavor and mouthfeel.
These options stand out for their careful crafting to capture the complexity and aromatic profile of traditional whiskeys, including notes of vanilla, oak, caramel, and spice, while providing a similar warming sensation and smooth mouthfeel.
However, it's important to manage expectations for what a zero-proof whiskey can be. Matt advises that while these alternatives come close, they can never replicate a real whiskey completely. Non-alcoholic whiskeys do not typically undergo traditional aging in barrels, but manufacturers may use wood chips, barrel staves, or oak extracts to replicate the aged flavor. Additional ingredients like sugar, molasses, caramel coloring, tannins, natural acids, and glycerin are often added to simulate traditional whiskey's taste and experience.
For instance, Monday Zero Alcohol Whiskey has a slight sourness in the taste, likely from citric acid. Ritual Zero Proof Whiskey Alternative, on the other hand, has a unique and sophisticated flavor profile, but Matt found it to be overly tobacco-forward. Gnista, made using a maceration process with botanicals, has a distinctive profile with strong herbal, spice, and root notes.
As the market continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative zero-proof spirits, offering a wide range of flavors and experiences for those seeking a whiskey-like drink without the alcohol. Whether you're a whiskey lover looking to cut back or someone who enjoys the flavors of whiskey but prefers to avoid alcohol, these zero-proof alternatives provide a satisfying option.
[1] Available in Canada [2] Low Calories, Zero Alcohol [3] Traditional Whiskey Comparison Notes [5] Contains B12 and Other Nutrients
- Matt Reynolds, a barbell coach turned whiskey aficionado, highly appreciates the 'Free Spirits Spirit of Bourbon' for its malty, caramel notes and a gentle burn that mimics the mouthfeel of bourbon, making it a healthier choice with B12 and other nutrients.
- Another zero-proof whiskey option gaining popularity is the 'Lyre's American Malt', designed for Scotch whisky lovers, delivering an elegant and complex experience, although it is primarily available in Canada.
- 'Spiritless Kentucky 74' stands out for providing an authentic whiskey flavor profile in spirit-forward non-alcoholic cocktails, while 'CleanCo Clean W' delivers a rich whiskey-inspired flavor with low calories and zero alcohol.
- In the quest for realistic zero-proof whiskeys, it's crucial to manage expectations, as these alternatives come close but cannot replicate the real whiskey completely. The manufacturing process often includes additional ingredients like sugar, molasses, caramel coloring, tannins, natural acids, and glycerin.
- The market for zero-proof spirits is evolving rapidly, offering a wide range of flavors and experiences to those seeking a whiskey-like drink without alcohol, be it for health reasons or personal preference.
