Diana Thompson on Low- and Zero-Alcohol Drinks

 

We first met prize winning wine writer Diana Thompson last year. We're delighted to welcome her back for an occasional series on wine and drinks. With the rather nice (so far) summer upon us, Diana considers some low-and zero-alcohol alternatives.

 

In recent years, we’ve seen a marked rise in low- and zero-alcohol wines and drinks and with good reason.

Summer often calls for alfresco lunches, relaxed afternoons, and perhaps, with no school run looming, the temptation is to throw caution to the wind. But for those looking to moderate, the great news is that there are now plenty of genuinely interesting alcohol-free options to discover — and believe me, that’s not something I ever expected to say.

Happily, the times (and the quality) have changed. Whether you’ve got a gym session planned after lunch, are following the World Health Organisation’s advice for a couple of alcohol-free days each week, or simply want a satisfying, flavour-packed alternative, here are some excellent options worth exploring and to enjoy in the sunshine.

The Game-Changer: Matthew Jukes’ Cordialities

If you’re looking for a truly elevated experience, Matthew Jukes has curated a stunning range of alcohol-free, wine-style Jukes Cordialities. These aren’t just good – they’re exceptional, earning almost every accolade possible, worldwide.

Available in concentrated form, these can be mixed with sparkling water or jazzed up with cranberry juice and watermelon ice cubes for a cocktail-style twist. Prefer something ready to go? Opt for the canned versions.

The Sparkling Tasting Box comes in an elegant tasting box of four cans, typically £20, but currently available at 50% off as an introductory offer.

Fresh, low in sugar, and bursting with flavour, these are head and shoulders above any other alcohol-free wine options. Definitely worth a try!  Head to Jukes Cordialities to tempt yourself.

Mainstream Marvels

If you’re after more widely available options, here are a few favourite supermarket gems:

Nozeco Rosé, France – (Tesco, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s from £3.25)

Delicious alcohol-free fizz with delicate wild strawberry and raspberry fruit. Perfect aperitif.  This has to be a classic.

La Gioiosa 0.0% Alcohol Free Sparkling, Italy – (Morrisons £4.50)

Crunchy apples and sweet pears balanced by crisp grapefruit acidity.  Refreshingly sparkling, delicious alone or with desserts.

Alcohol Free Malbec, South Africa – (Tesco £3.50)

Rich and rounded with bright black cherries, damsons and soft tannins.  Try this with some tomato pasta dishes.

Beer Lovers, Rejoice

For beer enthusiasts, the alcohol-free scene has plenty to offer. Scotland’s Innis & Gunn Zero Lager stands out. Brewed with golden oats, it delivers creamy oat flavours balanced by bright citrus notes and a surprisingly long finish. Widely available, including Tesco (£4.50 for a four-pack).

Something Different: Gosnells’ Nectar

For an unconventional treat, try Gosnells’ Nectar, a modern take on mead, brewed in Peckham. At 4% ABV, it’s a low-alcohol option with a refreshing twist.

Hazy Nectar offers a lively mix of ripe pears and crunchy Cox apples.

Raspberry Hibiscus Nectar bursts with juicy raspberries and floral notes.

Enjoy them straight or, for the adventurous, pair them with gin. Don’t let the word “mead” scare you – this is far from the fireside tipple of yesteryear.  Best place to get Gosnells is online here where you can get 12 cans for £32.50 .

Botanical Delights

Botanical drinks have taken the market by storm. While Seedlip remains a fan favourite, Asda’s own range offers purse-friendly alternatives at just £10 a bottle:

Rhubarb & Ginger or Classic Botanical Drink pair beautifully with tonic or ginger ale.

Red Berries delivers a rosé-like experience.

For a darker, spiced option, the Dark Spiced is fantastic with cola for a rum-style twist.

Whether you’re skipping the booze at lunch or simply curious about low- and no-alcohol alternatives, these options prove you don’t have to compromise on flavour.

Cheers to new discoveries - and here’s to a summer full of flavour.

Here are a few upcoming events being run by Wine Events Scotland

Lidl Wine Tour by Zoom Friday 29 August – a great BYO tasting of a selection of Lidl wines with their Lead Taster Richard Bampfield MW

Exploring Rioja with CVNE Wine Workshop - Thursday 11 September – in person wine workshop at Hotel du Vin together with nibbles and a chance to chat after the event

Fizz Feast – A Celebration of Sparkling Wine & Artisan Food – Friday 21 & Saturday 22 November

You can find out more and buy tickets on Diana's website Wine Events Scotland