5 of Char’s Favourite Non Alcoholic Drinks for Dry January
Words: Hannah Lemass
Images: Instagram
We are truly living in the golden age of non alcoholic options.
We’re nearly two weeks into Dry January already, but if you’re struggling with ginger ales, blackcurrant cordial, flat rancid non-alcoholic beers, and pints of milk, we have a few recommendations to help give you a second wind of motivation for the next few weeks.
Here are five of our favourite non-alcoholic beverages in no particular order that are perfect to enjoy whether you’re pursuing a sober lifestyle or not. They’re just genuinely interesting and tasty in their own right and well worth a try.
BÆK
Internationally renowned sommelier and co-founder of beloved restaurant Aimsir, Majken Bech-Bailey, has entered the 0% chat with BÆK. The stunning, sleek bottles encase a zero-proof elixir that delivers all the complexity and richness of a fine wine. They’re not just pulling alcohol out of bog-standard plonk; instead, they build it up from scratch, creating layers of flavour using teas, juices, and things like balsamic vinegar and even smoke.
Perfect for: Sophisticated fine dining.
Where to buy: Preorder at TheVirginMaryBar.com
Price: From €35
Firece Mild
Easily one of the best and, not to mention, most aesthetically pleasing non-alcoholic beers around, this extra pale ale is brewed in Ireland and delivers on everything you want from a beer. It’s refreshing, with zesty citrus notes and floral hints, complemented by a perfect balance of bitter hops and sweet maltiness. It’s the kind of non-alcoholic beer that will satisfy even the most serious of beer connoisseurs.
Perfect for: Casual weekday session.
Where to buy: Blackrock Cellar, Martins Off-License and more. See FierceMild.com for a full list.
Price: From €2.95 per bottle and €27.95 for a 12 pack
Fire&5th
This Irish brand is one of the few 0% drinks that mimics the warmth of alcohol. It builds over time, giving you an experience that really stimulates your senses. Besides the heat and kick, the flavours of these ‘spirits’ are very well balanced, with bright fruitiness and layers of citrus flavour. The Chilli & Blood Orange is perfect in a mocktail or mixed with ginger ale, while the pre-mix Pineapple Margarita only needs a bit of ice to make the magic happen.
Perfect for: A chill cocktail party.
Where to buy: Check out Fireand5th.com for a full list
Price: From €24
Hollow Leg
A delightful non-alcoholic wine using organic ingredients. The light, bright, acidic flavours make it perfect for sun-drenched summertime picnics, but it’s equally perfect for sipping during deep conversations over a candlelit winter dinner party. It’s far from the sickly-sweet, glorified grape juices of traditional 0% wines, as the mouthfeel, taste, and aroma of the grapes are preserved.
Perfect for: Intimate dinner parties with chums.
Where to buy: Molloy’s, Dunnes Stores, see drinkhollowleg.com for a full list.
Price: €12–€15
Lucky Saint
Whatever technology goes into making non-alcoholic beers has come a long way—they are getting better and better. The first time you try Lucky Saint, you’ll genuinely be surprised. It tastes just like a regular light lager, especially if you’re lucky enough to find it on draft. It has that sparkling effervescence that is so often a damp squib with many zero-percent brews. It’s all about that mouthfeel, baby.
Perfect for: Supping on with a spicy curry on takeaway night.
Where to buy: Molloys, Dunnes Stores, Tesco
Price: €2.50
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