A Guide to No and Low Alcohol Drinks
No and low alcohol drinks — often called “nolo” drinks — are here to stay. Whether you’re cutting back, cutting out, or just curious, this guide will help you get to grips with what’s what in the world of alcohol-free and low-ABV options. With more people choosing to drink mindfully, the category has evolved to offer flavourful, sophisticated choices without the fuzzy head the next morning.
What Are No and Low Alcohol Drinks?
Nolo drinks are crafted to offer the same enjoyment, flavour, and experience as alcoholic drinks, but with much less or no alcohol at all. In the UK, they’re defined as:
- Alcohol-Free: Contains no more than 0.05% alcohol by volume (ABV).
- Low Alcohol: Contains no more than 1.2% ABV.
They include beer, wine, spirits and pre-mixed cocktails—and the quality has come a long way in recent years.
Why Choose Nolo Drinks?
Everyone has their own reasons, but some of the big drivers include:
- Health Benefits: Lower alcohol consumption can help with sleep, mood, energy levels, and even skin clarity.
- Social Flexibility: Whether you’re the designated driver, training for a race, or just not feeling it tonight, nolo drinks let you join the fun without missing out.
- Mindful Drinking: It’s not all or nothing. Nolo drinks give you the option to slow down without stopping social rituals altogether.
What Nolo Brings to the Table
This category isn’t just about reducing alcohol — it’s also sparking innovation. Producers are using unique techniques, ingredients, and flavour profiles to create drinks that stand on their own merits. It’s helping redefine what a ‘grown-up drink’ can be.
In some ways, nolo drinks are changing the rules. They challenge assumptions about socialising, celebration, and even what a ‘drink’ really means. They also give people more control over how much alcohol they consume—without compromising on the social experience or the taste.
Exploring the Different Types of Nolo Drinks
Let’s break down the main categories. Each one brings something different to the glass.
Beers
Nolo beers often start their life just like regular beer. The difference lies in what happens after fermentation. Brewers can remove or limit the alcohol using clever filtration or by controlling the fermentation process.
Expect a range of styles, from crisp lagers to punchy IPAs and smooth stouts. The mouthfeel and flavour have improved dramatically, with some now being hard to tell apart from their alcoholic cousins.
Wines
Alcohol-free wine is usually made in the traditional way, then goes through a process to remove the alcohol. This can be done via vacuum distillation or reverse osmosis — methods that aim to retain the aroma and character of the wine.
While still catching up in some areas (especially with reds), sparkling wines tend to hold up well and offer a celebratory option for those skipping the booze.
Spirits
These aren’t technically distilled in the same way as traditional spirits, but rather made using flavour extraction, distillation of botanicals, or blending ingredients to replicate complexity.
Nolo spirits are designed to be mixed — think grown-up flavours like citrus peel, herbs, spices, and even smoke. They’re perfect for people who want something stronger-tasting than a soft drink, especially when served over ice with a mixer.
Cocktails and Pre-Mixed Options
You’ll also find a growing range of ready-to-drink mocktails and alcohol-free cocktails that don’t feel like an afterthought. From zesty spritzes to smoky alternatives to classics, they often feature bold, balanced flavours and great presentation.
This part of the market is all about experience — bringing the theatre and excitement of a cocktail without the alcohol content.
Tips for Getting Started with Nolo
- Start Simple: Try a few styles from each category to find what you like.
- Glassware Matters: Pouring into the right glass makes a surprising difference to the overall experience.
- Pair It Like You Would Wine or Beer: Nolo drinks still pair beautifully with food. Play around with matches and see what works.
- Don’t Expect Identical: While some nolo drinks are remarkably close to their alcoholic versions, others shine in their own right. Taste with an open mind.
Final Sip
No and low alcohol drinks aren’t just for Dry January or designated drivers — they’re for anyone who wants more choice when it comes to what’s in their glass. Whether you’re switching it up mid-week, taking a break, or changing habits altogether, nolo drinks make it easier (and tastier) than ever to drink on your own terms.
The world of nolo is wide, welcoming, and well worth exploring—so why not start your journey today?