Make no mistake! Gin is one of the most versatile spirits out there in any mixologist’s armoury. It has for long been a favourite of the festive flavour hounds. Gin is always superb as a classic G&T or delicious in a cocktail. But what if I say that you can now enjoy it without the hangover?
Gin is becoming more popular than ever before with non-alcoholic alternatives. It is about time that you try them out!
The process of making alcoholic and non-alcoholic gin is quite similar. Both rely on the same types of botanicals. These are the floral, fragrant, and fruity components that make up gin. The most popular is juniper, alongside a variety of herbs, fruit peels, and spices.
However, every producer applies a different processing technique. Some soak the botanicals in purified water until they take on that ginny flavour. While others begin the process with a small amount of neutral-flavoured alcoholic spirit. Then they add the botanical ingredients. The liquid mix is then heated over multiple rounds of distillation in order to withdraw the flavours. As a result, vapours rise, condense and are cooled and diluted. It is then separated from the alcohol into a non-alcoholic gin variety.
This process of making non-alcoholic gin takes about six weeks of time. It is a bit longer than it would take to make its alcoholic counterpart.
The Taste of Non-Alcoholic Gin
Non-alcoholic gin varies in terms of taste. Most non-alcoholic gins, just like alcoholic gins, resemble the same flavour as traditional gins. They all think herbal alongside slightly citrus notes, with floral, and spiced overtones.
You can expect to taste all the other great flavours you find in gins, with the non-alcoholic variant, except for the lack of alcohol. As it is almost impossible to emulate that alcoholic burn.
Starting with the best non-alcoholic gins!
Let us dig into some of the best ones out there.
Some of the Best Non-Alcoholic Gins Out There
Gin, as such, is perfect on its own. But the non-alcohol variant is fast claiming its space. We thought it is pertinent to source the very best alcohol-free gins so that you can put them on the list of your favorite drinks.
Strap in and simmer down, here is an exclusive list of some of the best non-alcoholic gins across the world.
- Lyre’s Dry London Spirit is the Best for Craft Spirits.
- Four Pillars Bandwagon Bloody is Best for Flavour.
- Gordon’s Alcohol-Free is the Best for Value.
- John Ross’s The Herbarium Spirit is Best for Cocktails.
How Madyasara Chose this List of Non-Alcoholic Gins
It goes without saying that expertise is key when it comes to compiling a list of the best non-alcoholic gins that money can buy. We have tasted every gin on this list and then turned to the wider public for overall ratings.
In addition to our own opinions, this list takes into account a few other major perspectives to determine the overall rating. We have collated the information together and measured the gins via overall flavour profile, reader ratings and commercial availability.
However, one-off special editions are not part of this list.
- ALTD Spirits Golden Emperor: This brand makes alt-gin spirits that are unmistakably Australian. Golden Emperor is distinctly unique, and an award-winning Aussie-made spirit that has a subtle citrus flavour that has received a host of medals overseas. Perhaps this gin’s unique flavour made with orange highlights, native botanicals, hints of roasted spices, and dark roasted cacao husks does the trick to make it so popular. This gin is mindfully crafted, copper distilled and ethically sourced. However, it is one of the more bespoke, expensive releases that can be a little harder to the source. ALTD Spirits Golden Emperor is the most experimental on our list with more than six botanical blends including Bush Orange, Blood Orange, Dark Cocoa, and Wattle seed.
- Banks Botanicals Non-Alcoholic Spirit: The Yarra Valley-based Banks Botanicals’ unique spirit is a locally produced spirit with a bush twist. It is yet another Aussie legend in the non-alcoholic spirits world. It is a bold blend of five ingredients that are individually distilled to ensure that the flavour and essence of each botanical are captured in their purest form. Expect cinnamon notes of cassia combined with the fresh high notes of lemon, lime, and myrtle. The good part is, give ten cents for every bottle sold to Bush Heritage Australia if you need a bit of extra temptation to buy a bottle. However, it is a little difficult to source and the lemon myrtle is a bit overpowering. This non-alcoholic gin from Victoria in Australia is the most sophisticated brand on the list that expertly blends through five botanicals.
- Clean G Gin Alternative: It is all about crafting delicious alternatives to alcoholic spirits. Clean G has spent years mastering the process. It is no surprise that this gin alternative is one of the best out there. Clean G Gin Alternative is a Gold Award Winner in the International Wines and Spirits Competition (IWSC) in 2021. This gin brand is a take on London Dry Gin. It offers an intense juniper experience balanced with botanicals that are mixed with other ingredients alongside a beautiful presentation and great value. However, be prepared for a super intense juniper taste when you try one. Clean G is the most traditional London Dry Gin variety on this list, along with crisp flavour and balanced botanicals.
- Clovendoe Distilling Co. Zero: Zero from Australia is one of the healthiest non-alcoholic gins out there. This does not mean it compromises flavour! It is a botanic distilled spirit that has been handcrafted in traditional copper pot stills. Clovendoe Zero is 100% sugar, gluten & carbohydrate-free. And contains no additives, artificial sweeteners, or flavours. You can enjoy glass after glass without having to worry about feeling guilty. It is super healthy with flavours that can eventually get lost in cocktails. Nevertheless, the flavour profile starts with and comes through strong, with infused lavender, lemon peel, lemon thyme, myrtle, orange and rosemary.
- Four Pillars Bandwagon: This top-flavoured non-alcoholic gin is a favourite Four Pillars brand. It comes from New South Wales in Australia and is among the top exports list of the region. They dropped a devilishly delightful non-alcoholic gin Bandwagon in two different variations. Each one of these with an incredible finish play on the brand’s most revered drops. While Bandwagon Dry is a classic formula San the spirit, our top pick is the Bandwagon Bloody. It is an alcohol-free version of Four Pillars’ iconic Bloody Shiraz Gin. The release is rich and fruity. You would be delighted to drop generous amounts of this one in a tall glass with tonic. Bloody portrays aromas of orange and lemon myrtle on the palate, along with notes of spice and some warmth. However, it is a bit pricey and definitely not for everyone.
- Gordon’s Alcohol-Free: Coming from the experts in the craft of making gin from England, Gordon’s Alcohol-Free is no surprise that things have moved up a notch with this non-alcoholic version. This new gin release has been made using distilled botanicals. Like the original Gordon’s London Dry Gin it provides the best value for the money you spend. Expect the bold, juniper-led character and flavors you get from Gordon’s. It is easily accessible but may not have the depth of flavor that some of the boutique options boast. Nevertheless, it offers great value for money.
- John Ross’s The Herbarium Spirit: It is one of the best non-alcoholic gins to have with your mocktails. John Ross’s The Herbarium Spirit contains subtle green color notes that you would expect from a plant-based drink. The flavor profile is unique and complex. It is made with rosemary and sage. The Herbarium Spirit gives a refined, and sophisticated touch to your G&T or mocktail. It is a rich, flavourful gin with hints of Rosemary and Sage. When paired with Indian tonic and lemon, it effectively recaptures the traditional G&T experience. However, it definitely is on the higher end in terms of price.
- Lyre’s Dry London Spirit: Great news for craft spirits fans! The Dry London Spirit by Lyre’s from Victoria in Australia perfectly captures the essence of the classic gin. The flavors are unique at the same time, and distinctly contemporary portraying Lyre’s signature. You are just going to have to try some to agree. Expect firm flavors with citrus and juniper, along with earthy pepper berry mid-palate notes that add warmth and deliver a generous, dry finish. Enjoy a tipple or two of this non-alcoholic gin to realize. The Lyre was awarded a slew of medals, including nods from the London Spirits Competition, Melbourne International Spirits Competition, IWSC, and San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Take home the super-premium release that is as close to the real thing.
- Monday Non-Alcoholic Gin: Gin is your trusted beverage that sits nicely at any time of the day. With this non-alcoholic variant, you will never decline a good old G&T ever again. Thanks to Monday, it is one of the best non-alcoholic gin and spirits that stocks up on all the good stuff without compromising on flavor. The Monday non-alcoholic gin is made from a blend of citrus, juniper, natural botanicals, and spices. It contains no calories, carbs, or sugars. Try this great low-calorie, boutique spirit even if you are on a diet. However, it is a bit hard to find stockists of this Aussie favorite brand.
- Pearsons Rhubarb & Ginger Non-Alcoholic Gin: This is an experimental gin variety from Scotland. It portrays a strange flavor, albeit delicious profile that is not bad after all. Try Pearsons Rhubarb & Ginger non-alcoholic gin if you are seeking something a little bit different. The gin is full of sharp rhubarb and warm ginger flavors selectively blended with cassia and juniper to create a smooth spirit experience. You will love this gin for its classic gin flavor profile with a unique back-of-mouth warmth similar to traditional spirits. The Rhubarb & Ginger non-alcoholic gin is a perfect replacement if you are seeking one.
- Seadrift Classic: Produced by Sydney’s Northern Beaches Distillery, Seadrift knows how to make a refreshing gin. And it is impossible to go past their classic non-alcoholic gin without a grin.. They combine fresh coastal and sea botanicals with flavors like coriander, golden sea kelp, and kaffir lime leaves. It is then distilled in traditional copper pot stills to create an intense, refreshing drink. Reckon a glass of Seadrift Classic served on ice, or with tonic water. It would go down a treat with some fresh seafood or solo. This locally-produced spirit comes with a traditional twist. While the botanicals can be a little overpowering, it is refreshing and the best on the list for afternoon G&T’s thanks to top notes of lime.
- Seedlip Garden 108: Coming from England, thank Seedlip for being one of the best non-alcoholic gins in Australia. Seedlip Garden 108 offers a powerfully refreshing, herbal-infused take on traditional gin. It features a truly unique flavor profile although the garden herb botanicals aren’t the most versatile in cocktail making. The floral blend includes hay and peas with traditional garden herb distillates that serves a good choice for virgin Margaritas. We recommend adding it to tonic water and adding a garnish of mint sprig or a sugar snap pea while serving.
- Sipsmith FreeGlider: When it comes to alcohol-free spirits, self-proclaimed perfectionists at Sipsmith believe it’s pretty easy to make gin. But to make delicious non-alcoholic gin requires craft, patience, and skill. With flavors of eucalyptus, along with spicy juniper undertones, FreeGlider is zesty with an all-around citrus overload. It is balanced by a full-bodied capsicum heat. FreeGlider is undeniably sippable for many people who love the flavor. However, this non-alcoholic gin variety from England is quite challenging to source.
- Srykk Not Gin: Srykk likes to keep things simple, and the same goes with ‘Not Gin.’ It boasts the same distilled flavor profile as a top-notch alcoholic one. Think botanical hints of basil, coriander, juniper, and sage when it comes to alcohol-free Srykk Not Gin. With no artificial flavors, no fat, and no sugar, ‘Not Gin’ is 100% natural. It is just as tasty as it is good for you. This ultra-premium spirit brand from England displays a beautiful presentation and is definitely one of the best on the list for mixing.
- Tanqueray Alcohol-Free: This is another long-time legend in the gin world. Tanqueray Alcohol-Free is one of the best-known non-alcoholic gins on the market right now. It is made with four perfectly balanced botanicals that give it a complex citrus style and juniper-led tasting profile. The classic juniper and citrus character of liquor has made Tanqueray famous. However, the botanicals that are individually immersed in water, heated, and then distilled in this alcohol-free variant fail to capture the traditional Tanquerey flavor lineament. Nevertheless, it is still great with a complex and delicious flavored sketch. Coming from a well-known brand in Scotland, Tanqueray Alcohol-Free provides great value for money and is easily accessible.
Key Things Concerning Non-Alcoholic Gins
Consider these when it comes to buying non-alcoholic gin. Not all options are the same. It’s important to take a few key things into consideration. Go, get the best out of your G&T.
- Base: Some producers will first create an alcoholic gin. And then remove the spirit. While many others will start with a neutral base for the product. Generally speaking, non-alcoholic gin made with juniper in the traditional gin-making process will feature a more rounded flavour. It is closer to the actual thing.
- Flavouring: Gin producers love to mess around with flavours as Four Pillars do with Bloody Shiraz. And the same is true of the alcohol-free variation. Don’t be surprised to find alcohol-free gins with cucumber notes, strong juniper berries, or any number of other bizarre ingredients. Never miss keeping an eye on the flavouring when it comes to non-alcoholic gin.
- Price: It does not mean that non-alcoholic gins come cheaper, just because it contains no alcohol. Most often than not, boutique gin producers will price their products anywhere above $50. So, stick to the tried and tested names like Gordon’s, if you’re looking for fair value for the money you spend,
Alternatives to Alcohol-Free Gin
Are you ready to ditch the booze? But remain unsure if gin is the best to turn to. The good news is that there are a host of other alternatives to non-alcoholic gin. There is no reason to worry as you can still get out and be socializing. Without having to delve into the strong stuff. You can always lay your hands on –
- Non-Alcoholic Beers
- Non-Alcoholic Spirits
- Best Low-Carb Beers
FAQs
Is non-alcoholic gin good for you?
Non-alcoholic gin is definitely better as it contains no alcohol. It is not a depressant. And will not result in drunk food at 3 am. Hangovers and all the other crap that comes with drinking alcohol can be avoided. Some non-alcoholic gins still contain sugars. That can at the most add up to some extra calories. Alcohol-free gin is the way to go if you are looking for a healthier option to regular alcoholic drinks.
Which is the best non-alcoholic gin for cocktails?
Great to start with the best non-alcoholic gin for cocktails. The best alcohol-free gin is John Ross’s The Herbarium Spirit.
Is non-alcoholic gin harmful?
Non-alcoholic gin is similar to a full-ABV version. Low-alcoholic drinks including alcohol-free gins are best when enjoyed in moderation. Such drinks are less damaging to your health in comparison to gin of higher alcoholic content. The fact is that alcohol-free gins and low-alcohol drinks have less alcohol content.
