What is the best alcohol-free gin?
Since the launch of My Dry Bar, I have tried quite a number of alcohol-free gins. Sometimes I have bought a bottle of non-alcoholic gin whilst other times I have tried premixed gin cocktails from cans. The one thing I can tell you is that out of all the spirits, gin is the most realistic alternative.
How do they make alcohol-free gin?
As you’ve probably seen there are now a large number of alcohol-free gins on the market. Some are manufactured by well-known drinks brands but there is also a strong collection of craft and bespoke alcohol-free spirit producers; of which gin is of course one. The question is, how do they go about recreating a gin-drinking experience without the alcohol?
Generally speaking, most alcohol-free gin is made in either of two ways. In the first method, a neutral grain spirit is used and a number of botanicals and other flavoursome ingredients are added to a copper still. This mix is then put through a number of rounds of distillation to remove the alcohol but maintain the flavour. The other process uses a term called maceration which is where the aforementioned botanical ingredients are combined and then ‘brewed’ in a neutral liquid that takes on the authentic tastes of gin.
Generally speaking, most alcohol-free gin is made in either of two ways. In the first method, a neutral grain spirit is used and a number of botanicals and other flavoursome ingredients are added to a copper still. This mix is then put through a number of rounds of distillation to remove the alcohol but maintain the flavour.
The other process uses a term called maceration which is where the aforementioned botanical ingredients are combined and then ‘brewed’ in a neutral liquid that takes on the authentic tastes of gin.
Top 5 alcohol-free gins
The following five alcohol-free gins are the best I’ve tried. New gin offerings come onto the market regularly so make sure you keep up with all the reviews by checking out the alcohol-free spirits section.
#1
PINK LONDON SPIRIT
by Lyre’s
Lyre’s generally don’t disappoint with their range of alcohol-free spirits and Pink London Spirit gin is no exception. On first taste, you get flavours of the classic red berries which has been expertly blended with the traditional gin flavours of juniper. Perfect when mixed with ice and tonic for a summery GnT.
#2
CLEANG
by Clean Co
Clean Co are a great producer of alcohol-free spirits. A lot of care and attention has been paid to the creation of CleanG (we especially love the packaging). You are going to struggle to find a more authentic tasting 0% alcohol gin.
#3
GORDON’S
by Gordon’s
One of the most recognisable spirit brands on any bar shelf Gordon’s have decided to create an alcohol-free version of their famous gin. Thankfully Gordon’s non-alcoholic gin is just as tasty and refreshing as their bigger brother and perfect for a GnT.
#4
LIGHT & ZESTY
by Caleno
Light and Zesty is a unique alternative to gin using a blend of exotic ingredients including pineapple, papaya, coriander and of course juniper berries. Mix is along with a tonic and ice for a very refreshing alcohol-free gin cocktail.
#5
SPICE 94
by Seedlip
Seedlip offers a number of alcohol-free botanical gins including Spice 94. I had this as a premixed cocktail and was pleasantly surprised bu its zingy flavours, especially grapefruit. A great option for those looking for a more bitter alcohol-free gin.
Following are a number of alcohol-free gins which (although I’ve not taste-tested) are rated well in the AF community.
Best mixers for alcohol-free gin
So, you’ve purchased your bottle of alcohol-free gin – now what?? Well yes, you could have it neat but let’s face it it isn’t great. You need a flavoursome and complimentary mixer to add to the spirit. You’re probably aware of Fever-Tree but there are other smaller (and arguably more interesting) brands on the market.
Following are some great non-alcoholic tonics that will enhance your gin drinking experience. You can find all these tonics and mixers on WISE BARTENDER (a fantastic spirit online retailer).
Double Dutch Tonics
These guys are great if you’re looking to use a tonic that is a little more exciting. I’ve tried a variety of spirits with their concoctions such as cucumber and watermelon and basil and pomegranate, you are guaranteed a very tasty GnT.
Twelve Below Tonics
Similar to Double Dutch these guys have a range of different flavoured tonics to enhance your alcohol-free gin. From apple and mint to lime and basil their tonics certainly have a creative spark.
Jeffrey’s Indian Tonic
This fantastic Indian tonic syrup by Jeffrey’s is the perfect way to spruce up your gin and tonic. It is made up of cinchona bark and organic Sicilian lemon juice. Simply add it to your gin with ice and enjoy this refreshing drink.
1724
TONIC
BERMONDSEY
TONIC SYRUP
ARTISAN CLASSIC
TONIC
JACK RUDY TONIC SYRUP
BERMONDSEY
TONICS
Pre-mixed alcohol-free gin and tonics
Let’s face it, sometimes you don’t have the energy to make a swish alcohol-free cocktail and just want to crack open a can and pour. Well, the good news is that the number of tasty alcohol-free premade cocktails is on the rise.
Below you’ll find a number of alcohol-free premixed gin and tonics you can buy for a quick and tasty drink.
GinISH & Tonic
ISH
I reviewed this premade GnT from ISH and it scored highly thanks to its great blend of juniper berries, coriander, oranges, lemon and quinine to create this refreshing drink.
Check out the full review of this cocktail
Light and Zesty
Caleno
I reviewed Caleno’s light and zesty premixed cocktail which scored pretty well. This refreshing cocktail is perfect to take down to the beach or poolside.
Check out my review of this gin cocktail
Sea & T
Sea Arch
An interesting take on a GnT with fiery juniper and then you get sensations of citrus fruit with a subtle salty background.
Check out the full review here
Gin & Tonic
Savyll
I’ve tried a number of Savyll’s cocktails so it’s no surprise they have created a non-alcoholic GnT. Expect a sophisticated and refreshing drink.