Our top non-alcoholic spirits
‘New zero- and low-alcohol drinks are sweeter and fruitier than their predecessors. I tried spirit- and vermouth-style options, and these came out on top.’
1 ¾ Oz. tonic maison syrup
This bitter syrup from Canada can be used to make a low-alcohol spritz, or simply to turn orange juice and soda into something special. This could become a regular purchase, especially as it’s more affordable than its rivals. £5.99 (240ml), Waitrose & Partners
2 Atopia spiced citrus
While this ‘spirit’ contains a little alcohol (0.5% ABV), it earns a mention because it’s the best gin substitute I’ve had. It has a hit of juniper, plus cinnamon, lemon and floral notes. Give this to a gin lover, and they’ll never suspect there’s hardly any alcohol in it. £24 (700ml), Sainsbury’s
3 Everleaf
The creation of bartender Paul Mathew, this is inspired by a Middleeastern drink called salep. It has a strong vanilla, cream soda-style character that gives way to bitter herbal notes. This is a versatile mixer that works with tonic water or a fruit-juice-andsparkling-water combo.
£15 (500ml), Sainsbury’s
4 Feragaia
This botanical drink from Scotland is low on sugar, but still manages to carry distinctive flavours well, with no unpleasant bitterness. It has a winey, vermouth-type quality, with refreshing citrus notes and a fiery finish that’s accentuated by tonic water. Try it in our martini, opposite.
£28 (500ml), feragaia.com
5 Three Spirit Social Elxir
Made by a team of bar industry stalwarts, this contains active ingredients meant to mimic the positive effects of alcohol. I can’t say I noticed this, but it does have a taste that majors on malt and liquorice. It chimes well with ginger ale. £24.99 (500ml), threespiritdrinks .com
6 Senser drinks
Senser’s range of plant spirits include three varieties: power, love and joy. Power is my favourite, as it gives tonic a fiery taste with spice, bitter orange and vanilla. It also works mixed into a mocktail with orange and lemon juices and sparkling water, too.
£25 (500ml), senserspirits. com