As January unfolds, many take a moment to reflect on the past year and look forward with renewed optimism. Following the festive season’s indulgences, it’s only natural to commit to healthier habits for the months to come. For countless individuals, this often translates to giving up alcohol entirely or at least reducing consumption.
What has evolved, however, is that this trend extends beyond just Dry January or Sober October; it has become a lasting lifestyle choice. Currently, one-third of UK consumers regularly opt for no- or low-alcohol “spirits” while socializing, and they are doing so year-round rather than viewing it as a temporary reset.
Statistics support this transformation. Nearly 100 million people engaged with these beverages from 2022 to 2024 in the post-COVID era, according to the IWSR — with 61 million entering the no-alcohol realm and an additional 38 million choosing low-ABV options. Survey participants hailed from various countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, South Africa, Spain, the UK, and the USA, emphasizing the global nature of this change.
The outcome is an increasingly diverse array of sophisticated, award-winning beverages that offer genuine depth, balance, and complexity — all without the aftermath of a hangover. What was once a niche segment of the bar industry has matured into a full-fledged category, with supermarkets and specialty retailers now showcasing extensive no- and low-ABV selections.
From spirit alternatives perfect for mixing to modern soft drinks and thoughtfully created mocktails, the options available today are more extensive and of higher quality than ever before. Here are seven standout choices and some clever ways to enjoy them.
7 Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Try Now
Botivo
This handcrafted non-alcoholic aperitif has become a favorite in the bartending community. Crafted in small batches at Lannock Farm in Hertfordshire, Botivo is produced with a deliberate, thoughtful approach.
The blend features apple cider vinegar, honey, and a meticulously selected array of botanicals, including rosemary, thyme, and wormwood, resulting in a complex flavor profile with genuine bite. Enjoyed with soda or tonic, or as a base for a simple cocktail, Botivo offers a sophisticated alternative to alcohol without compromise.
Guinness 0.0
Often regarded as the best non-alcoholic beer available, Guinness 0.0 has set a high benchmark. Unlike many alcohol-free beers that may taste watery or lack character, this beverage delivers a full-bodied experience. Since its launch in late 2020, it has gained immense popularity, backed by rave consumer reviews, celebrity endorsements, and savvy marketing strategies.
Importantly, its taste and experience closely resemble that of a traditional pint, whether served in a bar or enjoyed from a can at home.
Smooth, creamy, and unmistakably Guinness — a remarkable achievement.
Ish Cocktails
The Danish brand Ish positions itself as the “mindful drinking company,” a claim that is well-deserved. Their impressive collection of zero-alcohol options includes wines, spirits, and notably, an exceptional selection of pre-mixed cocktails.
Award-winning mocktails like Gin-Ish & Tonic, Spritz-Ish aperitif, and Lime Daiquir-Ish — a vibrant take on the classic daiquiri — showcase their creativity. These ready-to-drink options are well-balanced, genuinely enjoyable, and easy to keep stocked in your fridge.
Lyre’s
Lyre’s boasts an unparalleled range of non-alcoholic ‘spirits’ with one of the industry’s most diverse selections. Their impressive offerings include 0% alternatives for gin, whisky, rum, and even absinthe, all designed to closely replicate the flavor and structure of alcoholic counterparts.
Noteworthy are Lyre’s liqueur-style options. The Italian Spritz and Aperitivo Rosso are remarkably similar to their alcoholic inspirations, complemented by both sweet and dry vermouths. With a fantastic range of pre-mixed canned mocktails available, Lyre’s deserves a staple spot on your drinks shelf.
Seedlip
Seedlip was the first non-alcoholic brand to make significant inroads into mainstream retail and the bar scene since its launch in 2015. It has evolved from a novelty into a genuine pioneer and leader in the market, reshaping perceptions around alcohol-free drinking.
Importantly, Seedlip doesn’t try to mimic the flavors of existing alcoholic beverages but instead focuses on crafting unique, botanical-driven liquids that are versatile and distinct.
The range includes three expressions — fresh Garden 108, zesty Grove 42, and peppery Spice 94 — each making excellent zero-per-cent G&Ts and encouraging creative mixing.
Tanqueray 0.0
Often hailed as the finest non-alcoholic ‘gin’ available, Tanqueray 0.0 has garnered multiple awards to support its acclaim. Recently, it won a coveted Master medal at The Spirits Business No & Low Masters, followed by the Taste Master prize as Best in Class for 2026.
This beverage perfectly captures Tanqueray’s signature citrus-driven character, harmoniously blending it with juniper and subtle spice, delivering a familiar taste without compromise.
Best enjoyed in a refreshing G&T but equally pleasant served over ice.
Toby & Co. ‘The Green One’
The Green One aims to redefine what a soft drink can be. Featuring no added sugars, artificial colors, preservatives, or sweeteners, it is perfect for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets without compromise.
A thoughtful blend of natural ingredients creates a flavor that is genuinely unique. Green tea, reishi mushrooms, ginseng, and sea salt form its core, complemented by various herbs from English, Alpine, and Mediterranean origins. It’s complex, savory, and subtly energizing. Great on its own over ice or as a mixer with a non-alcoholic ‘spirit’ for a more adventurous drink.
3 Modern Mocktails To Try
The rise of no- and low-alcohol beverages has not only transformed what’s available on shelves but also the way we enjoy drinks. Increasingly, alcohol-free options are crafted with the same care and creativity as traditional cocktails, designed not merely as substitutes but as enjoyable experiences in their own right.
From innovative soft drinks to easy, impressive mocktails, these selections demonstrate that flavor, ritual, and occasions can shine without alcohol.
The No-groni
This non-alcoholic variant of the classic Negroni showcases impressive depth, built in the traditional manner. The simplicity of a Negroni lies in its three equal ingredients.
For your No-groni, mix Tanqueray 0.0, Lyre’s Aperitivo Rosso, and Lyre’s 0% vermouth in equal parts, pour over ice in a tumbler, give it a gentle stir, and garnish with a twist of orange peel.
Bitter, balanced, and undeniably sophisticated.
The Pal-no-ma
The Paloma is celebrated worldwide for its fresh taste and drinkability. A satisfying alcohol-free version can be created by substituting agave spirits with a botanical base such as Botivo, which beautifully complements the flavors.
To make, fill a tumbler or highball glass with ice, add 25ml of Botivo, 75ml of grapefruit juice, and top with soda water. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
Fresh, uplifting, and effortless to enjoy.
The Shirley Temple
This sweet, non-alcoholic classic predates the modern mocktail movement. Created in the 1930s for young film star Shirley Temple, it allowed her to enjoy a special drink alongside adults at Hollywood gatherings — though she later noted it was a bit too sweet for her preference.
To prepare, fill a tall highball glass with ice, pour in ginger ale (or lemon-lime soda), stir in two teaspoons of grenadine, and top with a maraschino cherry.
Nostalgic, playful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
