Discovering the Best Non Alcoholic Beer for Your Pub Adventures

The world of beer is a vast and diverse one, with brewers pushing the limits of what can be achieved with hops, barley, and the fermentation process. Non-alcoholic beer has always been a bit of an enigma in this world, but lately, it’s been enjoying a renaissance of sorts. This surge in popularity is due to recent advancements in brewing techniques, and more people embracing a healthier lifestyle while still wanting to enjoy a cold one. So whether you’re a beer and pub enthusiast, casual socializer, or a tourist and traveler, there is likely a non-alcoholic beer out there that will satisfy your cravings!

In this article, we will dive headfirst into the realm of non-alcoholic beer, exploring its history, the brewing process, and of course, our recommendations for the best non-alcoholic beer options for your pub adventures. So grab a pint, take a seat, and get ready to embark on a journey through the wonderful world of non-alcoholic beer.

A Brief History of Non-Alcoholic Beer

The history of non-alcoholic beer can be traced back to Medieval Europe when monks brewed low-alcohol beers as a means to suppress their carnal desires. These “small beers” contained low levels of alcohol and were consumed as an alternative to water, which was often contaminated and unsafe. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that non-alcoholic beer became more prominent, driven by necessity during periods of war and prohibition.

The Temperance Movement in the United States, which aimed to reduce alcohol consumption and encourage sobriety, also played a role in the development and popularity of non-alcoholic beer. It was during this time that some of the first true non-alcoholic beers were brewed, although their taste was often far from the quality we know today. The breakthrough in the brewing process and the development of modern non-alcoholic beers are a result of ongoing refinements over the years, leading to the diverse and delicious choices we have today.

How is Non-Alcoholic Beer Made?

The brewing process for non-alcoholic beer is actually quite similar to that of regular beer – it’s the alcohol-free aspect that adds a twist. There are several methods brewers use to produce non-alcoholic beer, but the two most common techniques are:

1. Limited Fermentation: Fermentation creates alcohol, but by limiting the fermentation process, alcohol levels can be kept low. Brewers may use alternative ingredients, such as non-fermentable sugars or specialized yeasts, to minimize alcohol production during fermentation.

2. Alcohol Removal: With this method, the beer is brewed in a traditional way, but the alcohol is later removed. This can be done via different methods like vacuum distillation, where the beer is heated below its boiling point to evaporate the alcohol, or by using reverse osmosis technology, which separates the alcohol from the beer.

Both methods have their pros and cons, but the most critical aspect is maintaining the beer’s natural flavor and mouthfeel while eliminating or minimizing alcohol content.

The Best Non-Alcoholic Beers for Your Pub Adventures

Now that we have a bit of background knowledge, let’s dive into our recommendations for the best non-alcoholic beers to enjoy on your pub adventures. These selections represent a wide array of styles and flavor profiles, so there’s likely something for everyone.

1. BrewDog Nanny State

This hoppy ale from Scottish brewery BrewDog has long been considered one of the best non-alcoholic beers on the market. Nanny State delivers a pleasant hoppy bitterness with a mix of fruity and floral notes. At just 25 calories per 100ml, it’s the perfect guilt-free option to enjoy when you’re out at the pub.

2. Heineken 0.0

A widely available and popular choice, Heineken 0.0 is brewed in a similar fashion to the original Heineken, with the alcohol removed afterward. The result is a light, refreshing lager with a slightly malty taste and a hint of lemon. It’s perfect for those who want the familiar flavor of a Heineken but without the alcohol.

3. Athletic Brewing Company Upside Dawn Golden Ale

Hailing from the United States, this non-alcoholic golden ale captures the essence of a traditional beer with a modern twist. Upside Dawn has a light, crisp malt profile, balanced by herbal and citrus hop notes. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a balanced and sessionable non-alcoholic beer.

4. Clausthaler Dry Hopped Lager

This German non-alcoholic beer is made with Cascade hops, a popular variety known for its fruity and floral character. The result is a dry-hopped lager with a refreshing bitterness and a smooth finish. The hop-forward flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for craft beer enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a good lager.

5. Bravus Oatmeal Stout

For those craving a dark and robust non-alcoholic beer, Bravus Brewing Company’s Oatmeal Stout is the answer. This rich stout offers flavors of coffee, chocolate, and roasted malt, providing the full-bodied experience you’d expect from a traditional Oatmeal Stout. This is an excellent choice for cold evenings in cozy pubs, or for those who just love a good stout.

6. Partake Pale Ale

Brewed by Canadian company Partake Brewing, their Pale Ale is a fantastic non-alcoholic option for those who crave a hoppy and flavorful drinking experience. With notes of citrus and tropical fruit, this beer provides a nice balance between malt sweetness and hoppy bitterness. An added bonus? It’s only 10 calories per can.

7. Surreal Brewing Company Chandelier Red IPA

For something a bit different, consider this non-alcoholic red IPA from Surreal Brewing Company. Chandelier boasts a unique combination of caramel malts and citrusy hops, providing a delicious, complex flavor that will satisfy any IPA lover.

Exploring Beyond the Beer

In addition to our picks for the best non-alcoholic beer, don’t forget that many pubs and bars now offer a wide selection of non-alcoholic cocktails, mocktails, and even craft sodas! There’s never been a better time to explore the world of delicious and satisfying alcohol-free beverages. So next time you’re out at the pub or bar, don’t hesitate to give one of these fantastic non-alcoholic beer options a try. You just might discover a new favorite while enjoying a healthier and more responsible night out. Cheers!