Five delicious alcohol-free and low alcohol drinks that aren’t too sweet

The alcohol-free drinks market continues to go from strength-to-strength. From ultralow- alcohol beers, to Kombuchas and vinegar drinks, to alcohol-free spritzers – there really is something to suit everyone’s tastes.

But on the subject of taste, some of us can find alcohol-free alternatives to be a little too sweet. Not only is this frustrating when you are seeking a ‘grown-up’ taste experience, but also a hindrance when you are looking after your health, or managing an ongoing condition such as diabetes, or simply watching your weight.

So, what’s out there for those of us who enjoy an alcohol-free tipple but want to dodge the sugar? From popular sparkling options, to unusual bitter and stouts - check out our top suggestions below.

1. GON & Tonic Cucumber and Mint

A lovely cucumber aroma will be the first thing you notice on this twist on an absolute classic. We reckon this one has a great bittersweet balance and works out under 6g of sugar per bottle . Refreshing, light and 45 calories for a 250ml bottle, it’s a win-win!

2. Zerozecco

In a category of drinks that can be full of overly sweet flavours, this alcohol-free prosecco is comparatively dry with a delightful bite. A refreshing and mature tasting prosecco alternative that comes in at just 5.7g of sugar per bottle and just 32 calories per 125ml glass. Perfect for a celebration and very reasonably priced if you pick it out at a few common UK supermarkets.

3. No. 1 Living Passion Fruit Kombucha

Admittedly, Kombuchas aren’t for everyone, but we think this one’s a great all-rounder – and best of all it’s sugar free! No.1 Living has managed to inject the exciting and tropical essence of passionfruit while ditching the sweetness. With a slight bitter bite of goji berry, it’s much more mature than your average soda and is packed with the health benefits.

4. UNLTD. IPA

From our 2023 Sober Spring partners we have a deliciously complex 0.5% ABV IPA. Deep malt flavours and citrus aromas make this beer perfectly balanced. And what’s more, at only 19 calories and 0.1g of sugar per 100ml it really is a low-sugar alcohol-free beer super star.

5. Sussex Lager

Whilst only 13 calories per 100ml, our reviewers found it didn't compromise on taste!

In its neat little can, this Sussex Lager is ideal for slaking your thirst on the move. It’s got a light golden colour. It’s dry – with Czech and German hops – but not too bitter. It’s not only low in alcohol, but also gluten-free and vegan.

Create your own drink!

And if those ideas left you wanting more, there are simple ways you can enjoy less-sweet alcohol-free options at home or with friends. How about trying:

• Sparkling water, lime juice and mint
• Chilled ginger tea, over ice
• Soda water with lemon and rosemary (or other herbs)

See what you think of our suggestions and be sure to drop your own low-sugar suggestions in the comments below.