Best Non-Alcoholic Beers That Actually Taste Like Beer (2026 Guide)

Best Non Alcoholic Beer

Non alcoholic beer used to be a compromise.

Watery. Sweet. Forgettable.

I’ve spent close to 12 years tasting and judging beer. For most of that time, Non-alcoholic beer was something you tolerated, not chose.

That has changed!

Today’s NA beer is built with intention. Brewers obsess over aroma, mouthfeel, and balance before they ever touch alcohol removal. The result is beer that actually tastes like beer.

Athletes drink it after training. Professionals drink it on weeknights. Some people drink it because they’re sober. Others because tomorrow matters.

This guide cuts through the noise and answers one simple question:

What is the best non alcoholic beer worth trying right now?

Here Is Your Quick Answer: The Best Non Alcoholic Beer to Try in 2026

🏆 Guinness 0.0: Best Non-Alcoholic Beer for Me

Why it works:

  • Rich roasted malt with coffee and cocoa notes
  • Smooth, satisfying texture (not thin or sweet)
  • Feels intentional, balanced, and complete

👉 Shop Guinness 0.0 on Amazon

Personal note: This was the best-tasting Stout to me. Taste varies, and your top pick may differ by style preference.

Comparison Table for the 5 Best NA Beers/Drinks for 2026

BeerTaste NotesProsConsBuy Now
Guinness 0.0Rich roasted malt, coffee & cocoa, creamy bodyAuthentic stout feel, smooth, iconic flavorLess hop aroma, slightly sweet finishShop on Amazon
Best Day Brewing NA Craft BeerLight, crisp malt with subtle sweetness, gentle citrus zest, and herbal hop notesTrue craft brewing process, ultra-refreshing and sessionable, low-cal & ≤0.5% ABV, natural ingredientsMild hop presence for IPA lovers, lighter body lacks malt depthShop on Amazon
Athletic Brewing Co. Upside DawnLight golden malt, gentle floral hops, crisp dry finishEasy drinkability, low-cal, reliable qualityNot bold like hop-forward stylesShop on Amazon
Heineken 0.0Light grain sweetness, subtle floral hopsWidely available, easy drink, keto-friendlyMild bitterness, less complexShop on Amazon
Corona Non-AlcoholicClean grain, soft citrus, dry finishLight, crisp, food-friendlyMild flavor, thin for some palatesShop on Amazon

Now, Complete Review of the 13 Best NA Beers

There’s no single best rated non alcoholic beer. Anyone telling you that is skipping nuance. Taste is personal, so I picked what tasted best to me, considering factors such as aroma, mouthfeel, balance, brewing technique, availability, and how closely each beer delivers on its intended style.

Every pick below earned its place. Not because it’s trendy. Not because it’s loud. But it delivers on flavor, balance, and drinkability.

Some are classic lagers. Some chase hops. And the rest bend the rules entirely. 

Let’s start…

1. Guinness 0.0 – Best Non Alcoholic Beer

Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught 0.0 stout serving with creamy head

Style: Classic Irish stout reborn without alcohol

Taste notes: Deep roast barley aroma with dark chocolate and coffee notes. Smooth creamy body with gentle bitter cocoa, toasted malt sweetness, and a silky finish that stays true to the iconic Guinness profile.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, authentic stout body: Fully alcohol-free while preserving the signature Guinness mouthfeel and depth.
  • Roasted barley complexity: Delivers real coffee, cocoa, and toasted malt notes rarely achieved in non alcoholic beer.
  • Creamy draught-style texture: Nitrogenated pour creates a smooth, velvety head instead of fizzy carbonation.
  • Low-calorie indulgence: Offers stout satisfaction with significantly fewer calories than traditional dark beers.
  • Iconic flavor consistency: Tastes unmistakably like Guinness, not a reinterpretation or compromise.

Cons:

  • Less hop aroma than lighter styles
  • Slightly sweet malt finish might not fit every palate

Pairs Well With:

  • Smoky barbecue brisket
  • Dark chocolate desserts
  • Grilled portobello burgers

Shop on Amazon | Guinness 0.0 Non Alcoholic Stout

2. Best Day Brewing NA Craft Beer

Best Day Brewing non-alcoholic craft beer can with bright citrus design and condensation

Style: American-style non-alcoholic craft beer, brewed traditionally and gently de-alcoholized (≤0.5% ABV)

Taste notes: Light, crisp, and refreshing with subtle malt sweetness upfront, followed by gentle citrus and herbal hop notes. Clean carbonation keeps it lively, finishing dry and highly drinkable without heaviness or lingering sweetness.

Pros:

  • True craft beer process: Fully brewed beer with alcohol removed, preserving aroma and balance.
  • Ultra-refreshing profile: Clean, crisp, and easy to drink in warm weather.
  • Low calorie & low alcohol: Designed for active lifestyles without sacrificing flavor.
  • Natural ingredients: Brewed with real malt, hops, yeast, and water.
  • Session-friendly feel: Drinks like a classic light craft beer, not soda-like.

Cons:

  • Mild hop intensity may feel restrained for hop-forward IPA lovers.
  • Lighter body means it lacks the richness of darker or malt-heavy styles.

Pairs Well With:

  • Grilled chicken or fish tacos
  • Fresh salads and citrusy dishes
  • Beach days, hikes, and backyard BBQs

Shop on Amazon| Best Day Brewing Non-Alcoholic Craft Beer

3. Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn

Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn non-alcoholic beer lager can

Style: Clean, bright non-alcoholic lager built for daily drinking

Taste notes: Light grain sweetness greets you first, followed by gentle floral hops and a crisp, dry finish.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, easy drinkability: Classic lager refreshment without the buzz or heaviness.
  • Crisp & clean flavor: Balanced malt and hop profile keeps it lively, not flat.
  • Perfect session beer: Light body and dry finish make it easy to sip more than one.
  • Low-calorie choice: A good pick when calories matter but you don’t want water.
  • Consistent quality: Athletic Brewing is known for reliable NA brewing done right.

Cons:

  • Not as bold as hop-forward or malt-rich styles.

Pairs Well With:

  • Grilled chicken salad
  • Fish tacos with fresh lime
  • Light vegetarian bowls

Shop on Amazon | Athletic Brewing Co. Upside Dawn NA Beer

4. Heineken 0.0 NA Lager

Heineken 0.0 non-alcoholic beer cans served cold.

Style: Crisp European-style lager, alcohol-free classic

Taste notes: Light grain sweetness with a gentle cereal backbone and subtle floral hops. Clean crisp finish with a balanced bitterness that echoes classic lager character without alcohol warmth.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, true lager refreshment: Offers classic beer taste with 0.0% ABV for mindful drinkers and NA beginners.
  • Light, crisp flavor: Delivers easy, sessionable malt and hop balance without heaviness.
  • Widely available: One of the best non alcoholic beers found globally in bars and stores.
  • Refreshing finish: Clean, dry end makes it ideal for daytime sipping or with meals.
  • Keto-friendly and lower calorie: Lighter profile is easier to fit into balanced eating plans.

Cons:

  • Less complex than craft NA options, with mild bitterness that some hop fans may find modest.

Pairs Well With:

  • Fish and chips or seafood baskets
  • Grilled chicken sliders
  • Fresh garden salads with lemon vinaigrette

Shop on Amazon | Heineken 0.0 Non Alcoholic Lager

5. Corona Non-Alcoholic Lager

Corona Non-Alcoholic beer bottles chilling with lime wedges

Style: Crisp, pale lager with bright refreshment

Taste notes: Clean grain sweetness up front with a touch of soft citrus and a dry finish. Light and airy on the palate.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, easy refreshment: Classic Corona vibes without the buzz.
  • Light and crisp flavor: Perfect for warm days or casual sips.
  • Citrus lift: Soft lime zing plays nicely with light malt.
  • Food-friendly profile: Doesn’t fight with food on your plate.
  • Widely recognized style: Familiar and unpretentious.

Cons:

  • Mild flavor may feel thin if you prefer richer beers.

Pairs Well With:

  • Lime wedges and light snacks
  • Tacos and seafood
  • Fresh salads with citrus dressing

Shop on Amazon| Corona Non-Alcoholic Beer

6. BERO Non-Alcoholic IPA Beer

BERO Non-Alcoholic IPA style beer can chilled with a hop garnish

Style: IPA-style non alcoholic beer with assertive hop character

Taste notes: Punchy citrus and grapefruit hop aromas hit first, followed by resinous pine and a light floral note. Medium body with bright bitterness and a zesty finish.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, full hop intensity: Bold citrus and floral notes without alcohol make it a top best non alcohol beer for hop lovers.
  • Bright bitter finish: Delivers satisfying IPA-style bitterness that lingers without being harsh.
  • Aromatics first: Strong bouquet elevates drink experience above generic NA options.
  • Drinkable body: Medium mouthfeel keeps it balanced and crushable on warm days.
  • Great value pack option: Attractive pricing for frequent NA beer drinkers.

Cons:

  • Higher bitterness may not suit malt-first drinkers.

Pairs Well With:

  • Spicy tacos or buffalo cauliflower bites
  • Sharp cheddar or grilled halloumi
  • Citrus-glazed salmon

Shop on Amazon | BERO Non-Alcoholic IPA Style Beer

7. Barritt’s NA Ginger Beer

Barritt’s non-alcoholic cocktail mixers bottles with fresh fruit garnishes

Style: NA mixer set – not beer, but a playful partner to NA brews and mocktails

Taste notes: Bright ginger heat, citrus tang, and botanical spice in every stir. Think spritz-ready, bold, and refreshing.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, big personality: Adds real zing to NA beers, sparkling water, or mocktails.
  • Versatile mixers: Ginger, citrus, and spice profiles open new flavor doors.
  • No saccharine sweetness: Bold taste without cloying sugar.
  • Great for gatherings: Easy way to dress up drinks for guests.
  • Pair-friendly: Works with light beers, lagers, or seltzer bases.

Cons:

  • Not exactly a beer – it’s a mixer. Best enjoyed with drinks, not as one.

Pairs Well With:

  • NA beer spritzes (beer + mixer + lime)
  • Sparkling water mocktails
  • Fruit and herb-infused pours

Shop on Amazon | Barritt’s Non-Alcoholic Ginger Beer

8. Partake Brewing Non Alcoholic Pale Ale

Partake Brewing Pale Ale non alcoholic beer

Style: Light American pale ale with balanced hop and malt interplay

Taste notes: Gentle citrus zest and soft stone fruit aromas, backed by gentle biscuit malt. Clean, crisp finish with mild hop bitterness and restrained body makes this one of the best non-alcoholic beer options.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, built for sessions: Alcohol-free with real pale ale character that stays refreshing through many pours.
  • Hoppy but balanced: Mild grapefruit and floral hops give aroma and subtle bitterness without overwhelming.
  • Approachable flavor: Great answer to what does non alcoholic beer tastes like for drinkers new to NA beer.
  • Low calorie and easygoing: Light-bodied, drinkable, and friendly for daily sipping.
  • Brand consistency: Partake is known for crafting reliable, flavorful NA beers.

Cons:

  • Less bold than traditional IPAs, so hop purists might want something punchier.

Pairs Well With:

  • Grilled shrimp skewers
  • Pita and hummus with lemon zest
  • Fresh herb pasta with olive oil

Shop on Amazon | Partake Brewing NA Pale Ale

9. SOBER Belgian-Style Non-Alcoholic Beer

SOBER CARPENTER Belgian-Style non-alcoholic beer bottle with foam head

Style: Belgian-inspired non-alcoholic ale with fruity spice character

Taste notes: Soft bready malt with hints of clove and citrus zest, followed by gentle spice and a dry finish. Softer bitterness lets spice and fruit take the stage.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, complex aroma: Fruity and spicy notes shine without the buzz.
  • Belgian-style character: Clove and citrus meld into a layered sip.
  • Smooth mouthfeel: Full enough to feel substantial but still light.
  • Food-friendly nuance: Great with rich foods or cheese plates.
  • Balanced profile: Not too sweet, not too bitter.

Cons:

  • Subtle hopping means craft IPA fans might want more punch.

Pairs Well With:

  • Soft cheeses and charcuterie
  • Herb-roasted chicken
  • Light fruit tarts

Shop on Amazon| SOBER CARPENTER Belgian-Style NA Beer

10. RationAle Brewing Co. Mexican Lager 

A person pours a can of RationAle Brewing Co. Mexican Lager non-alcoholic beer into a glass, creating a foamy head.

Style: Bright, clean Mexican-style non-alcoholic lager

Taste notes: Soft corn sweetness with a whisper of lime zest and a snappy dry finish. This beer is light but lively.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, pure refreshment: Crisp and drinkable without buzz or heaviness.
  • Clean flavor profile: Easygoing malt with a gentle sweetness that never clings.
  • Lime-friendly character: Zesty lift makes it great with citrus finishes.
  • Session-ready body: Light mouthfeel for multiple cans without fatigue.
  • Food versatile: Works with lots of casual eats.

Cons:

  • Minimal bitterness for hop fans who want bite.

Pairs Well With:

  • Grilled street tacos
  • Chips, salsa, guac
  • Ceviche with cilantro and lime

Shop on Amazon | RationAle Brewing Co. Mexican NA Lager

11. Ted Sager’s NA Brew

A can of Ted Segers’ non-alcoholic beer can sitting on a dark surface in front of a vintage electrical panel.

Style: Straightforward non-alcoholic beer made for everyday enjoyment

Taste notes: Soft grain sweetness with a touch of crisp malt and a clean finish. Mild hop presence keeps bitterness low and easygoing.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, honest flavor: A straightforward beer-style sip with no buzz and no complications.
  • Easygoing taste: Light malt and gentle hop notes make this a crowd-pleaser.
  • Great for meals: Won’t overpower food or clash with bold flavors.
  • Beginner-friendly: Nicely approachable if you’re new to NA beer.
  • Unpretentious profile: Simple, balanced, and easy to like.

Cons:

  • Not bold enough for craft beer purists seeking complexity.

Pairs Well With:

  • Wood-fired pizzas
  • Soft pretzels with mustard
  • Herbed chicken sandwiches

Shop on Amazon | Ted Sager’s Non Alcoholic Brew

12. Go Brewing NA Beer

Go Brewing non-alcoholic beer cans chilled and ready to drink

Style: Light and lively non-alcoholic ale brewed for easy drinking

Taste notes: Mild malt sweetness with subtle citrus lift and a touch of crisp hop finish. Clean and uncomplicated, it leans refreshing without heaviness.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, real beer vibes: Sips like beer without the buzz or heaviness.
  • Light and refreshing: Bright, balanced profile that doesn’t wear you out.
  • Easy for beginners: Gentle on the palate for people new to NA beer.
  • Great everyday choice: Works well at BBQs, meetups, or afternoons on the patio.
  • Broad appeal: No extreme hops or heavy malt to intimidate.

Cons:

  • Flavor is mild – hop lovers might want something with more bite.

Pairs Well With:

  • Grilled corn and lime butter
  • Fresh veggie wraps
  • Light seafood skewers

Shop on Amazon | Go Brewing NA Beer

13. RationAle Brewing Co. Citrus Hazy NA Beer

An open teal cooler filled with ice and RationAle Brewing Co. non-alcoholic beer cans sitting inside an orange inflatable raft on the water.

Style: Citrus-forward hazy pale ale in non-alcoholic form

Taste notes: Zesty orange and grapefruit hit first, layered over soft tropical haze. Smooth body with light haze mouthfeel, subtle wheat sweetness, and a citrus peel brightness.

Pros:

  • Zero alcohol, full fruity zest: Bright citrus character without the buzz makes this a refreshing NA standout.
  • Hazy mouthfeel: Soft, juicy body gives more presence than many clear lagers.
  • Aroma-first experience: Tropical and citrus notes dominate without sharp bitterness.
  • Easy to drink: Light bitterness and fruit tone make it session-friendly.
  • Great summer choice: Pairs well with heat and sunshine.

Cons:

  • Not as bitter as traditional IPAs for hop purists.

Pairs Well With:

  • Spicy fish tacos with lime
  • Ceviche with fresh herbs
  • Grilled pineapple and tropical salads

Shop on Amazon | RationAle Brewing Co. NA Beer

Full List: 40+ Non-Alcoholic Beer Brands Worth Trying

If you’re only seeing a few options at your local store, you’re not “out of choices.” You’re just looking at a tiny shelf. The NA world is huge now. It’s global. It’s weird in a good way. And yes, it includes both legacy giants and small craft breweries that take non alcoholic beer very seriously. 

Brands that make the best non alcoholic beers:

  • Heineken
  • Guinness
  • Budweiser
  • Athletic Brewing
  • Partake Brewing
  • BrewDog
  • Clausthaler
  • Beck’s
  • Erdinger
  • Stella Artois
  • Peroni
  • Corona
  • Bitburger
  • Krombacher
  • Weihenstephaner
  • Brooklyn Brewery
  • Lagunitas
  • Suntory
  • Asahi
  • Kirin
  • Sapporo
  • Carlsberg
  • Coors
  • Estrella Galicia
  • Paulaner
  • Mikkeller
  • Big Drop Brewing
  • Bravus Brewing
  • Surreal Brewing
  • Hairless Dog Brewing
  • Rightside Brewing
  • Grüvi
  • Leader Brewing
  • WellBeing Brewing
  • Untitled Art
  • Lervig
  • Clausthaler Craft
  • St. Pauli Girl
  • Blue Moon (Non-Alcoholic)
  • 1820 Brewing
  • BERO

What Is Non Alcoholic Beer?

Let’s strip this down to facts.

Non-alcoholic beer is real beer.

It’s brewed with water, malt, hops, and yeast. Same starting line as regular beer. The difference shows up later, when alcohol is reduced or removed.

If you want the legal definition, then:

In the U.S., EU, and most global markets, non-alcoholic beer is legally defined as beer with up to 0.5% ABV. That number isn’t random. It’s the point where alcohol has no intoxicating effect for the vast majority of people.

Now, labels matter.

  • Alcohol-free (0.0%)

This means no detectable alcohol. Zero. Brewers remove alcohol completely or prevent it from forming at all.

  • Non-alcoholic (≤0.5%)

This allows trace alcohol. Still non-intoxicating. Still legally NA.

Both are common. Both are regulated. But they are not the same thing.

Why Does Trace Alcohol Exist At All?

Fermentation creates alcohol by default. Yeast eats sugar. And alcohol is the byproduct. Even when brewers stop fermentation early or remove alcohol later, tiny amounts can remain.

This isn’t unique to beer. 

Ripe bananas, sourdough bread, kombucha, and fruit juice can all contain similar trace levels.

So when people ask, “Do non alcoholic beers have alcohol?” The honest answer is sometimes, in microscopic amounts.

What matters more is intent.

Modern NA beer isn’t about tricking anyone. It’s about delivering beer flavor without the buzz. And when done right, it works.

How Non-Alcoholic Beer Is Made

As stated earlier, non-alcoholic beer doesn’t start as something fake.

It starts as beer.

Traditional Brewing vs NA Brewing

Both begin the same way. Grain is mashed. Sugars are extracted. Hops are boiled. Yeast is added. Fermentation begins. Flavor is built early. That part matters.

The split happens after.

In traditional brewing, fermentation runs its full course. Alcohol stays.

In NA brewing, alcohol is reduced, removed, or never allowed to fully form. The goal is simple. Keep flavor. Lose the buzz.

How that’s done makes all the difference.

  • Dealcoholization (vacuum distillation)

This is the gold standard for flavor accuracy.

Beer is fully brewed first. Then, alcohol is gently removed under low pressure. Because the boiling point drops, alcohol evaporates at lower temperatures. Aroma compounds survive. Malt structure stays intact.

The result feels closest to regular beer. Better aroma. Better balance. Better body.

The downside? It’s expensive. That’s why you’ll see this method used by premium brands.

  • Arrested fermentation

Here, brewers stop fermentation early. Yeast doesn’t get time to convert sugars into alcohol.

This keeps ABV low, but it comes with risk. Too early, and the beer tastes sweet or thin. Too late, and alcohol creeps up. 

When done well, it creates light, easy-drinking styles. When rushed, it tastes unfinished.

  • Reverse osmosis

This method filters beer through a membrane. Alcohol and water pass through. Flavor compounds stay behind. Alcohol is removed. Water goes back in.

It’s precise. It protects hop aroma. Mouthfeel can suffer if not carefully rebuilt.

Does Non-Alcoholic Beer Actually Taste Like Beer?

Let’s address the real question now.

Does non-alcoholic beer actually taste like beer? 

Sometimes yes, sometimes… not quite.

Why Did Early NA Beers Fail?

Old NA beers weren’t brewed. They were corrected. Brewers made regular beer, stripped the alcohol aggressively, and hoped flavor would survive. It didn’t.

Alcohol carries aroma. It adds weight. It rounds bitterness. Remove it carelessly, and you’re left with sweetness, flatness, or both. That’s why early non alcoholic beer tasted thin, metallic, or vaguely like cereal water.

Modern brewers learned the lesson.

You don’t remove alcohol and pray. You design beer for alcohol removal.

That’s where things changed.

What Does Non Alcoholic Beer Taste Like Today?

It tastes like beer with softer edges.

Less burn. More clarity. More aroma-forward profiles.

Here’s how it breaks down by style:

StyleHow Close It Gets
LagerVery close. Clean, crisp, lightly bready. Often the safest entry point.
IPAStrong hop aroma, lighter bitterness. Less punch, more perfume.
WheatSoft mouthfeel, subtle fruit, refreshing finish. Naturally forgiving.
StoutRoasted malt shines. Coffee and cocoa carry the weight alcohol used to.

The best tasting non alcoholic beer doesn’t chase strength. It chases balance.

Who Will NA Beer Satisfy?

NA beer works best for people who drink beer for flavor, ritual, or refreshment. Weeknight drinkers. Athletes. Professionals. Anyone pacing alcohol without quitting beer culture.

Who it won’t satisfy… People chasing intoxication. Or that warm ethanol hit in the chest. NA beer isn’t trying to replace that.

Is NA Beer Bad for You?

Short answer?

For most people, no.

Longer answer?

It depends on why you’re drinking it and what’s in the can.

Non-alcoholic beer isn’t a healthy drink. It’s also not a vice in disguise. It sits in the middle. Lighter than regular beer. More intentional than soda. And far easier on the body than alcohol-heavy options.

Nutritional Breakdown

Compared to regular beer, NA beer is usually much lower in calories. Most fall between 30–80 calories per serving, while standard beer often doubles that.

Sugar matters. Some NA beers use arrested fermentation, which can leave residual sugars behind. That’s important for diabetics or anyone monitoring blood sugar. 

Carbs aren’t a trick either. Malt is still malt. Although light lagers tend to be lower. Dark or malt-forward styles carry more.

Labels matter here. Please read them carefully.

Potential Health Benefits

Hydration improves when alcohol is removed. Especially with hop-water-style drinks, which don’t fight your body the way ethanol does.

Hops contain polyphenols. These compounds are linked to antioxidant activity. It’s not medicine. But it’s nothing either. 

There’s also a social benefit. You can participate without overdoing it. No foggy mornings. No “why did I say that?” moments. 

That matters more than people admit.

Who Should Be Cautious

Recovering alcoholics may want to avoid NA beer entirely. Even trace alcohol or familiar rituals can be triggering.

Pregnant individuals should consult healthcare providers before drinking non alcoholic beer, especially those labeled ≤0.5% ABV. 

Certain medications can react to trace alcohol. When in doubt, be sure to check first.

Context matters. Choice matters more!

How to Choose the Best Non-Alcoholic Beer for You

Choosing the best non alcoholic beer is about knowing your palate and being honest about why you’re drinking it. Flavor first. Context second. Everything else is noise.

NA beer now spans styles, strengths, and intentions. Some are built to refresh. Others to replace a favorite pint. Knowing what you enjoy and what you don’t saves time and disappointment.

Buyer Tips That Actually Help

If you’re a hop lover:

Look for non-alcoholic IPAs or pale ales that rely on dry hopping. Aroma does the heavy lifting here. Expect citrus, pine, and tropical notes.

If you prefer malty beers:

Go for lagers, ambers, or dunkel-style NA beers. Bread, toast, and light caramel notes create fullness where alcohol usually sits.

If calories matter:

Light non-alcoholic lagers and session-style options typically land between 30–70 calories. Crisp. Clean. No extras pretending to be beer.

If you want zero alcohol:

Read labels closely. 0.0% ABV means alcohol-free. “Non-alcoholic” can legally contain up to 0.5% ABV. Decide what line you’re comfortable with.

If you’re new to beer entirely:

Start simple. Wheat beers, blondes, or lightly hopped lagers or drinks are forgiving and refreshing without bitterness overload.

One last rule

Don’t judge the category by one bad can. The gap between average and great NA beer is wide. Choose wisely.

Common Myths About Non-Alcoholic Beer (Debunked)

Non-alcoholic beer still carries baggage. Old opinions. Bad first impressions. Half-truths are passed around like facts. Most of them come from a time when NA beer deserved the criticism. That time is over. Let’s clear a few things up.

“It’s just flavored water.”

If it were, brewers wouldn’t bother with mash tuns, fermentation tanks, or hops. NA beer uses the same ingredients as regular beer. Malt provides body. Hops bring bitterness and aroma. Yeast creates flavor. Water alone can’t do that.

“It’s unsafe.”

NA beer is regulated and labeled. Tracing alcohol levels in non-alcoholic beer is comparable to those in everyday foods like bread or fruit. For most adults, it’s safe to drink. The risk isn’t hidden alcohol. It’s not reading the label and assuming all NA beers are the same.

“It’s only for sober people.”

That’s outdated thinking. Many NA beer drinkers still enjoy alcohol. They just don’t want it every time. Weeknights. Workdays. Training days. Non alcoholic beer fits into moderation, not restriction. It’s about flexibility, not labels.

“It’s not real beer.”

Real beer is defined by ingredients and process, not ABV. If it’s brewed with malt, hops, yeast, and water, it’s beer. Alcohol is a byproduct, not a requirement. Remove the alcohol thoughtfully, and the beer still stands on its own.

Final Verdict: Is Non-Alcoholic Beer Worth Drinking?

Yes. When it’s done well, non-alcoholic beer is absolutely worth drinking.

It’s perfect for people who like beer but don’t always want alcohol. Anyone who values clarity the next morning. It also works for those cutting back without cutting themselves off.

The category will keep growing because the demand is real and quality keeps improving. Brewers are investing. Techniques are getting smarter. Flavor gaps are closing fast.

The key is choosing well. Skip the bland ones. Explore the good brands. When NA beer is built with intent, it doesn’t feel like a substitute. It feels like a choice.

FAQs on Non Alcoholic Beer

What is the best non alcoholic beer?

There’s no single best option for everyone. The right non alcoholic beer depends on what you enjoy. Crisp lagers feel familiar. IPAs lean on aroma. Stouts rely on roasted malt. Match the style to your taste, not the hype.

What is the best tasting non alcoholic beer?

That depends on what you expect from beer. The best-tasting non-alcoholic beers are usually the ones brewed with intention. Brewers who plan for alcohol removal tend to deliver better balance, aroma, and mouthfeel than those trying to “fix” a beer after the fact.

Do non alcoholic beers have alcohol?

Some do. Beers labeled non-alcoholic can legally contain up to 0.5% ABV. Beers labeled 0.0% are alcohol-free. The difference is small, but for some people, it matters.

Is NA beer safe to drink every day?

For most healthy adults, yes. NA beer is lower in calories and alcohol-free or nearly so. Just be mindful of sugar and carbs, especially if it’s a daily habit rather than an occasional drink.

Can athletes drink NA beer?

Absolutely. Many athletes choose NA beer because it doesn’t interfere with training, sleep, or recovery. Without alcohol, it fits easily into post-workout routines and rest days alike.

Where to buy non alcoholic beer?

You’ll find non alcoholic beer online (I have the best options reviewed for 2026 in the above sections), in grocery stores, and in many liquor shops. Brand websites and subscriptions often offer better variety and fresher stock than local shelves.

Is 0.0% beer completely alcohol-free?

Yes. Beers labeled 0.0% are legally alcohol-free with no detectable alcohol. They’re different from non-alcoholic beers, which may still contain trace amounts by law.

Does non-alcoholic beer show up on a breathalyzer?

Under normal drinking conditions, no. The alcohol content is too low to register meaningfully. Any brief reading of mouth alcohol fades quickly and doesn’t reflect intoxication.

Can you get drunk from non-alcoholic beer?

No. The alcohol level is far too low to cause intoxication. You’d reach physical limits long before alcohol had any noticeable effect.

Is non-alcoholic beer keto-friendly or low-carb?

Some light options are lower in carbs, but most NA beers are not keto-friendly. Malt still contributes carbohydrates. Nutrition labels are your best guide here.

Is non-alcoholic beer safe during pregnancy?

This depends on personal comfort and medical advice. Some choose to avoid all trace alcohol. If unsure, 0.0% options or professional guidance are the safest route.

What’s the difference between hop water and NA beer?

Hop water isn’t beer. There’s no malt and no fermentation. NA beer is brewed like traditional beer, then de-alcoholized. One is refreshing. The other is about recreating beer flavor without alcohol.

Does Heineken 0.0 Have Alcohol?

No. Zero means zero. Heineken 0.0 is brewed to be legally alcohol-free at 0.0% ABV. Not “almost.” Not “close enough.” It meets alcohol-free standards, not the lower non-alcoholic threshold.

Knowing what’s in the beer glass is one thing. Choosing the right one for you is the next step!

Cheers!

@washingtonbeerblog