Australian non-alcoholic beers reviewed

Kirk O’Dwyer tests out 10 non-alcoholic beers to see if they really stack up to the real thing.

The alcohol-free beer market is growing.

With sales booming in the non-alcoholic industry, experts warn consumers should exercise caution when drinking the buzz-free beers.

Although it is a healthier choice than full-strength beers, Lauren Stribley from Sports Dietitians Australia said it’s important for consumers to read the label.

“We need to be mindful of additives,” the sports dietitian said.

Richard Just, owner of leading non-alcoholic beverage website CraftZero, said there had been a massive increase in the demand for the drinks.

Similarly, a spokesman for Sans Drinks, a non-alcoholic drink superstore, said it had seen increased interest in the non-alcoholic sector this year.

“More customers are exploring alcohol-free options and the demand has continued to increase month on month,” he said.

Kirk O’Dwyer has tested ten of the most popular beers without the booze. Did it convert him?

Non-alcoholic beer taste test. Picture: David Caird

Garage Project Tiny XPA

A fruity but midweight flavour punch, refreshing for a summer’s day with no lingering after taste. Could see myself knocking off a six pack in the sun. 4 stars

Garage Project Tiny Day and Night stout

A whiff of coffee and chocolate that leaves a slight nutty aftertaste. Heavy roast flavour could appeal to the stout connoisseur. 2 stars

Sobah tropical lager

This one fizzed out of the can with mild citrus flavour overtone. Smooth and ripe for drinking multiple cans without overwhelming the tastebuds. 3 stars

This drink was our reviewer’s favourite. Picture: David Caird

Craftzero X Dalman Street milk stout

Beware dairy lovers, my fears turned to joy when I discovered that this wasn’t a milkshake posing as a beer, but a decent flavour from a dark stout brew. For my tastes this is the pick of the bunch. I give it 5 stars

Bridge Road Brewers Free Time hazy IPA

An easy drinking pale ale with a hint of the tropics. Lemon and zest makes for a refreshing ale. 3 stars

Sobah finger lime cerveza

Hints of Corona but a bit south of the border for my liking, has a refreshing quality to it and the lime is certainly present. 2 stars

Garage Project Tiny everyday IPA

Not sure this would be my everyday choice, unless you like everyday to have a bitter edge. This one does come with a lot of flavour and your tastebuds won’t feel like they are being ignored. 2 stars

Hop Nation Stars Align alc-free stout

For the coffee lovers out there this dark roast flavoursome drop could easily replace your morning brew. Not that I’d condone beginning your day with a beer, however, at .5% why not give your day a stout start. 4 stars

Bridge Road Brewers Free Time pale ale

The flavour washes in like a small tropical wave. It has a lemony lime feel to it and is very easy drinking. I think this would be best served outdoors with sun on your face. 4 stars

Sobah pepperberry IPA

This one had an unusual flavour to it, but sadly not for my taste which is not surprising given its spicy key ingredient. If you like pepper and spice, this might be the one for you. 1 star

Originally published as Australian non-alcoholic beers reviewed