Best Alcohol-Free Ciders (2026 Guide)
Looking for the best alcohol-free ciders? You’re in the right place.
We’ve reviewed a growing range of non-alcoholic ciders—from crisp apple ciders to sweeter pear and fruit-led options—to help you find the ones actually worth drinking.
Alcohol-free cider is one of the more promising categories. Compared to wine, it tends to hold up better once the alcohol is removed, with many options still delivering that familiar balance of sweetness, sharpness and refreshment.
That said, not all alcohol-free ciders are created equal. Some lean too sweet, others lack depth, and a few feel closer to soft drinks than proper cider. The difference between the best and the rest can be significant.
That’s why we’ve tested and ranked the top alcohol-free ciders available today—so whether you’re after a classic apple cider, a lighter pear cider, or something more fruit-forward, you can find a reliable option quickly.
Best Alcohol-Free Ciders Ranked
These are the top-rated alcohol-free ciders based on taste, balance, carbonation and overall drinkability.
| Cider | Type | Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 Two Farmers Cider | Apple Cider | 81% | Best overall balance and flavour |
| 🥈 Chance Cider | Apple Cider | 76% | Clean, refreshing and easy-drinking |
| 🥉 Alcohol-free Pulp Cider | Apple Cider | 75% | Juicier, slightly sweeter style |
| Cosmic Crisp | Apple Cider | 74% | Crisp apple flavour with good structure |
| Galipette 0% | Apple Cider | 73% | Classic, balanced French-style cider |
Apple ciders dominate the top spots, with most of the highest-rated options focusing on clean, crisp flavour rather than overly sweet profiles.
Best Alcohol-Free Ciders (Ranked)
Two Famers
Perhaps it’s the cold filtration used or the apple varieties, but what you get is a refreshing, sweet and tart cider.
81%
Chance cider
Chance cider is certainly one of the most refreshing ciders with a bittersweet, tangy mouthful when you take your first sip.
76%
Pulp cider
Pulp has created a cider full of refreshing apple flavours making this a perfect drink for summer.
75%
Cosmic Crisp Cider
We particularly enjoyed Cosmic Crisp with its semi-sweet, tart flavours and dry finish.
74%
Galipette 0.0%
This alcohol-free cider was full of refreshing semi-sweet, tart flavours and carbonation was also spot on.
73%
What Makes a Good Alcohol-Free Cider?
Alcohol-free cider is one of the more forgiving categories—but there’s still a big gap between the best and the rest.
The good news is that cider naturally relies less on alcohol for structure than wine, which means many alcohol-free versions still deliver a familiar drinking experience. The bad news? Some still miss the mark.
Here’s what to look for when choosing a good alcohol-free cider:
- Flavour (apple vs artificial): The base flavour should feel natural and clean. The best ciders lean into crisp apple notes rather than artificial or overly processed flavours.
- Balance (sweet vs sharp): Too sweet and it feels like juice. Too dry and it can feel flat. The best ciders strike a clean balance between sweetness and acidity.
- Carbonation (level of fizz): A good level of carbonation adds lift and freshness, helping recreate the feel of traditional cider.
- Body (thin vs rounded): While lighter than alcoholic cider, it shouldn’t feel watery. The better options still have a bit of weight and structure.
- Drinkability (would you have another?): This is the real test. The best alcohol-free ciders are easy to drink and work well in social settings.
In general, apple-based ciders tend to perform best, while fruit and flavoured ciders can be more hit and miss depending on how natural the flavouring is.
Types of Alcohol-Free Cider
Alcohol-free cider comes in a few different styles, each offering a slightly different drinking experience.
- Apple cider: The most common and reliable option. Typically crisp, balanced and closest to traditional cider.
- Pear cider (perry): Lighter and slightly sweeter, often with a softer, more delicate flavour profile.
- Fruit cider: Includes flavours like berry, mango or mixed fruit. Can be refreshing, but quality varies depending on how natural the flavouring is.
Alcohol-free cider reviews
Alcohol-Free Cider FAQs
What is the best alcohol-free cider?
The best alcohol-free cider depends on your taste, but apple ciders tend to offer the most balanced and reliable flavour. Some of the top-rated options combine crisp apple notes with a clean, refreshing finish.
Does alcohol-free cider taste like real cider?
In many cases, yes. Alcohol-free cider tends to retain more of its original flavour compared to wine, making it one of the closest alternatives to the real thing.
Why does alcohol-free cider taste different?
Removing alcohol can slightly reduce depth and body, but cider is less affected than wine. Differences usually come down to sweetness levels and carbonation.
Is alcohol-free cider completely alcohol-free?
Some ciders are 0.0%, while others contain up to 0.5% ABV. Always check the label if you’re avoiding alcohol completely.
Is alcohol-free cider healthier?
Alcohol-free cider is typically lower in calories and contains no alcohol. However, some can be high in sugar, so it’s worth checking the nutritional information.
What’s the difference between apple and pear cider?
Apple cider is usually crisper and more balanced, while pear cider (or perry) tends to be lighter and slightly sweeter.
Where can I buy alcohol-free cider?
Alcohol-free cider is widely available from supermarkets, specialist retailers and online stores. Availability is improving as the category continues to grow.
Should alcohol-free cider be served chilled?
Yes—alcohol-free cider is best served cold, which helps enhance its refreshing qualities and overall flavour.
Final Thoughts
Alcohol-free cider is one of the strongest categories in the alcohol-free space, with several options coming surprisingly close to the real thing.
Unlike wine, cider retains much of its character once the alcohol is removed, meaning many options still deliver that familiar balance of sweetness, sharpness and refreshment.
That said, not every cider hits the mark. The best options focus on clean apple flavour, balanced sweetness and a refreshing finish, while weaker ones can feel overly sweet or closer to soft drinks.
If you’re new to alcohol-free drinks, cider is a great place to start. It’s easy to drink, widely available and one of the most reliable alternatives to traditional alcoholic options.
Start with the top-ranked ciders above, and you’ll quickly get a feel for what works—and what doesn’t.
