Non-Alcoholic Beers: A Taste Test of 19 Varieties


Hey everyone! Welcome to today’s video where we’ll be diving deep into the world of non-alcoholic beer. I’ve been collecting 19 different varieties over the past few weeks, and what started as a simple review has turned into an epic taste test! There’s so much to explore in the non-alcoholic beer market these days, and today we’ll cover it all, from light lagers to rich stouts. Let’s get into it.

If you're also curious about non-alcoholic spirits, I reviewed some a while ago—I'll leave a link in the comments below for you to check that out. Originally, I planned to combine beers, wines, and spirits into one video, but with so many options available, I decided to split them up. So, today we’ll focus entirely on non-alcoholic beers.

The Taste Test Breakdown

I’ll be tasting beers in different sections, starting with the lighter ones and gradually working my way to the heavier stouts. Along the way, I’ll share my favorites in each category. Ready? Let’s get started.

1. German-Style Beers

First up, let’s talk about some classic German beers, including a couple of wheat beers. These have been around for a while and are known for their traditional brewing techniques.

  • Clausthaler
    This non-alcoholic beer has been around since the 70s, making it one of the most well-known options in the category. However, it’s not my favorite. It’s quite hoppy and malty, with a flat bubble structure, which leaves the flavor a bit underwhelming for my taste.

  • Bitburger 0.0
    This one is more my style. It tastes closer to a traditional beer, with a nice balance and no “fake” beer flavor. Bitburger uses a technique called vacuum distillation to remove the alcohol while preserving the flavor, and it shows in the taste. You almost can’t tell it’s non-alcoholic!

  • Beck’s
    Beck’s is another staple in the non-alcoholic beer world. It’s a bit flatter than Bitburger, but it has a pleasant sweetness that I enjoy. It’s a good choice for those who like a hint of malt.

  • Erdinger
    Erdinger stands out with its superior bubble structure and a rich, malty flavor. It’s sweeter than the others, but still well-balanced. If you like your beers a little on the sweet side, this might be your top pick.

Favorite in this category: Bitburger takes the win for me, but Erdinger is a close second.

2. European-Style Lagers

Next up are some classic European-style lagers from outside Germany. These beers are light, refreshing, and perfect for a warm day.

  • Buckler (Holland)
    Buckler has been around since the 80s and is a solid choice for a crisp, refreshing non-alcoholic beer. It’s malty and has a nice bite at the end, making it perfect for a summer BBQ.

  • Heineken 0.0 (Holland)
    Heineken’s non-alcoholic version hit the market in 2017, and it’s surprisingly fruity! You’ll get hints of banana and tropical flavors, which makes it stand out. It’s not as crisp as Buckler, but it’s still a nice option.

  • Stella Artois (Belgium)
    I’ve been drinking Stella’s non-alcoholic beer for a while, and I absolutely love it. It’s super crisp, light, and less malty than Buckler. This is my go-to for an easy-drinking beer, especially on a weeknight.

Favorite in this category: Stella Artois wins for me, but if you’re looking for something to pair with food, Buckler is a great option.

3. American-Style Lagers

These are classic, crisp beers designed for easy drinking. I’ve also thrown in a Mexican-style beer for good measure.

  • Cerveza Atletica by Athletic Brewing Company
    This beer surprised me with its amber color—it’s darker than I expected. It’s light in flavor, but I’d love a bit more carbonation. It’s still refreshing, especially with a squeeze of lime.

  • Coors Edge
    Coors Edge is super floral and clean, with a lighter body than expected. There’s not much maltiness here, but the carbonation is spot-on, making it a great, easy-drinking option.

  • Budweiser Zero
    I didn’t even know Budweiser made a non-alcoholic beer, so I had to try it! And honestly, it’s really good—it tastes just like a lighter Budweiser. It’s a bit watery but still malty and balanced.

Favorite in this category: Budweiser Zero takes the crown here. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and malt, making it a standout.

4. Wheat Beers & Fruity Beers

Now onto some fun, fruity beers and wheat beers. These are perfect for summer and tend to be lighter and more refreshing.

  • Weihenstephaner
    One of my favorite wheat beers in the alcoholic category, and the non-alcoholic version doesn’t disappoint. It’s light, refreshing, and while it feels like it’s missing something, it’s still a top-notch beer.

  • Clausthaler Grapefruit
    If you love grapefruit, you’ll love this beer. It’s more like a grapefruit soda than a traditional beer, but that makes it super easy to drink. Perfect for those who like Shandys!

  • Untitled Art Florida Weisse
    This beer is packed with passion fruit flavor, and it’s slightly tart rather than sweet. It reminds me more of a sour beer, and it’s absolutely delicious. A perfect choice for hot summer days.

  • Bravus Raspberry Gose
    I’m a huge fan of Gose beers, and this one doesn’t disappoint. It’s slightly salty, making it super hydrating and refreshing. It’s a great choice if you love fruity beers but want something with a bit more complexity.

Favorite in this category: The Untitled Art Florida Weisse wins for its tartness and passion fruit flavor.

5. IPAs & Hoppy Beers

IPA lovers, this section is for you. Let’s dive into some non-alcoholic hoppy beers.

  • Athletic Brewing Company Free Wave Hazy IPA
    Hazy IPAs are known for their tropical fruit flavors, and this one nails it. It’s juicy, with hints of pineapple and mango, and the hops are present without being overpowering. Easily my favorite IPA so far.

  • Brooklyn Special Effects IPA
    I expected this to be hoppier, but it’s surprisingly light. It still has some resinous IPA notes, but it’s definitely on the milder side.

  • Lagunitas IPNA
    Lagunitas is known for their IPAs, and the non-alcoholic version is pretty good! It’s lighter than their regular IPA, but still has enough hops to satisfy IPA lovers.

Favorite in this category: The Athletic Brewing Company Hazy IPA wins for its tropical fruitiness and perfect balance.

6. Stouts

I only have one stout for this review, but it’s a good one.

  • Guinness 0.0
    It’s Guinness—what more can I say? This beer is rich, creamy, and tastes almost identical to the alcoholic version. It’s chocolatey, malty, and everything you want in a stout.

Favorite in this category: Guinness, hands down. It’s hard to beat!

Final Thoughts

The non-alcoholic beer market has come a long way from the days of just O’Doul’s and Clausthaler. There are so many great options now, and no matter what style you enjoy, there’s likely a non-alcoholic version that will hit the spot. I hope this guide helps you find your new favorite!

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