Non-alcoholic gin promises the same great taste of traditional gin without the alcohol content. I’ve always been a fan of spirits, so the idea of an alcohol-free gin sounds amazing. But does non-alcoholic gin taste like gin?
While many non-alcoholic gins try to mimic the taste and aroma of real gin, I will admit that not all non-alcoholic gins taste like gin.
While it is possible to replicate the piney flavor from juniper, it is hard to replicate the same flavor, mouthfeel, and body of ethanol. Most non-alcoholic gins will taste thinner and softer than real gin because of the lack of alcohol.
Below, I share more about non-alcoholic gin and explore what it is made of, and most importantly, some of my favorite non-alcoholic gins that I’ve tried.
I recommend trying different non-alcoholic gins to find your favorite non-alcoholic gin brand. That is how I found some of the best non-alcoholic gins – after trying more than ten different non-alcoholic gins and gin alternatives!
What Does Non-Alcoholic Gin Taste Like?
Gin generally has a taste of citrus peels and juniper berries, which gives it a piney taste. Imagine a combination of fresh pine trees and citrus peels mixed together, supported by the strong taste of alcohol.
The taste of non-alcoholic gin vary depending on the brand and the specific recipe used.
I found that some non-alcoholic gins have a strong and piney taste, giving them a gin-like experience. Other alcohol-free gin alternatives tasted more like flavored water with their light flavor notes.
Depending on the brand, some distilleries might add botanicals, fruits, seeds, and herbs like cinnamon or ginger to create a more spicy kick or herbal note.
Also Read: What To Mix With Non-Alcoholic Gin When You Don’t Have Or Like Tonic
What Is Alcohol-Free Gin Made Of?
Non-alcoholic gin is often made using the same botanicals as regular gin, such as juniper, coriander, citrus peel, and other herbs and spices, which are steeped in water or a non-alcoholic base such as grape juice or vinegar to extract their flavors.
Some non-alcoholic gin brands may also use distillation or other techniques to create a more gin-like flavor and aroma.
Some common botanicals used are:
- Juniper berries: This is what gives a gin its signature piney aroma and flavor
- Coriander seeds: Balances the juniper flavor and adds a citrusy, spicy note
- Citrus peel (lemon, lime, or orange peel): Adds a bright, zesty flavor and aroma
- Angelica root: Creates an earthy note and binds the other flavors together
- Other herbs and spices (cardamom, cinnamon, orris root, or licorice root): add complexity and depth to the flavor
Some Non-Alcoholic Gin That Tastes Like Gin
DHŌS Gin Free
I have tried several non-alcoholic gins, and Dhōs Gin Free stands out as one of my favorites. Dhōs Gin Free has a strong juniper flavor that reminds me of traditional gin, unlike many non-alcoholic spirits that taste like flavored water.
Dhōs uses steam distillation process to make the product, and ingredients include pure juniper berry oil and other botanicals that are cold-pressed to preserve their intensity of flavor.
With zero calories and zero sugar, Dhōs Gin Free is also a fantastic choice for those who are mindful of their calorie and sugar intake.
Order Dhōs Gin Free on Proof No More (within the United States)
Monday Zero Alcohol Gin
Monday non-alcoholic gin is crafted in Southern California, using natural ingredients in small batches, making it the company’s award-winning flagship spirit.
In my review of Monday Zero Alcohol gin, I immediately noticed the aroma was perfectly reminiscent of gin, featuring a balanced juniper profile that reminded me of the smell of pine trees.
However, I don’t recommend drinking this gin neat, as I usually do with traditional gin. The high levels of citric acid and lime make the taste incredibly sour and bitter.
To reduce the sourness and bitterness, I suggest adding more ice to dilute the flavor or mix it with tonic water.
Order Monday Gin directly from their website (within the United States)
Optimist Botanicals Fresh
In a previous review of Optimist Botanicals Fresh, I highlighted its strong cilantro and basil flavor profile that persists even when mixed with tonic water.
As a gin alternative, I found that it pairs exceptionally well with tonic and a touch of lime.
The fragrance of this non-alcoholic gin is reminiscent of walking through the fresh herb section of a grocery store.
It boasts a complex aroma with a multitude of notes to savor, ranging from basil and oregano to lime and citrus.
Order Optimist Botanicals directly from their website (within the United States)
Other key FAQs
Is Alcohol-Free Gin Just Water?
Alcohol-free gin is definitely not just flavored water!
While some non-alcoholic gins are watery and light on their flavors, a well-made alcohol-free gin will have those familiar piney notes of juniper and be similar in taste to gin but without the alcohol.
That said, non-alcoholic gin is still not at the level of completely mimicking the taste of traditional gin. I recommend expecting a different alternative to what gin should taste like!