Not long past, the mention of non-alcoholic beer was often met with humorous skepticism. However, times have changed and now it has become an accepted part of the mainstream beverage landscape. Surprisingly, most of those who partake in non-alcoholic beers are not completely abstaining from alcohol. According to Nielsen statistics, 82% of the people choosing non-alcoholic beers, legally classified as containing less than 0.5% alcohol by volume, are still alcoholic beverage consumers. They tend to integrate non-alcoholic beers into their routine, in an effort to adjust their alcohol intake. 

Despite still representing just about 1% of overall beer sales, non-alcoholic beers can no longer be dismissed as a fleeting experiment. They're here to stay and are getting better both in taste and quality. For those who wish to turn down a few alcoholic drinks, here's a guide to remarkable non-alcoholic beers in a variety of styles including IPAs, pilsners, and lagers.

Starting off with Bero, a nonalcoholic beer choice of film actor Tom Holland (famous as Spider-Man among others), who endorsed and launched this beverage in order to stay sober since his 2022 Dry January challenge. Kingston Golden Pils, one of the Bero's variants, mimics the authentic taste with its characteristic sharpness and invigorating conclusion. A 6-pack costs $16.

The Athletic Brewing dominates the market with their nonalcoholic craft beers. Their Free Wave, a splendidly fragrant hazy IPA, adeptly seals in the citrus zing of Amarillo, Citra, and Mosaic hops. A single 6-pack will set you back $14.

Deschutes Brewery from Bend, Oregon, also began producing a non-alcoholic version of their popular Black Butte Porter in 2022. Reusing their trademarked BrewVo de-alc method helps to maintain the beer's medium thickness, roasted creaminess, and smooth dry finish. It clinched the gold at the 2024 World Beer Cup in the Non-Alcohol Beer category, a deserving tribute to the original version. A 6-pack costs $14.

Established for four years, Best Day Brewing, has quickly made a mark in the non-alcoholic beer industry. Its first seasonal release in summer 2023 captured the features of a light-bodied Mexican-style lager with a gentle touch of salt and lime. The added natural electrolytes also enhance refreshment. A 6-pack costs $14.

Montauk Brewing Company’s single non-alcoholic beer stands out with its orange-and-blue cans, reminiscent of the New York Mets colors. The blend of Citra, Mosaic, and Cryo hops gives this aromatic IPA a light, bright, and fruity aroma, making it very enjoyable. A 6-pack is priced at $18.

Sierra Nevada notably offers Trail Pass Golden among its six nonalcoholic options, and after years of refining, a harmonious balance of malts, hops and yeast resulted in a well-rounded, medium-bodied NA beer with a plethora of vivid flavors. A 6-pack is available for $12.

Firestone Walker Brewing Co introduced 8ZERO5, the non-alcoholic variant of their top-selling California-based Firestone Walker 805 blonde ale in 2024. Retaining the smooth drinkability of the original, this version contains 0.3% ABV. A 6-pack costs $12.

Garrett Oliver, Brooklyn Brewery's longtime brewmaster, took up the art of brewing a non-alcoholic version of a classic West Coast IPA as a "fascinating technical challenge." The resulting Special Effects IPA, striking in its flavor profile, retains the underlying bitterness of the West Coast IPA without the inebriation. It retails at $14 for a 6-pack.

With its rapid growth, RationAle Brewing sits as the fifth-largest non-alcoholic craft beer company in the country. The Mexican Cerveza, a beloved choice from their portfolio, is a refreshing brew with a slightly sweet skew, crafted using their trademarked BrewVo process. A 6-pack fetches $13.

The global stout frontrunner, Guinness, took four years to recreate their iconic brew into a non-alcoholic version, but the patience paid off. Guinness 0 carries forward the enduring creaminess and the classic frothy head that generations of beer enthusiasts have loved. A 4-pack costs $12.

Lastly, for those looking for an alternative to the prevailing hoppy or light non-alcoholic beers, Bravus’ Peanut Butter Dark offers a rich, chocolatey, and nutty flavor profile. It's a robust and velvety brew that rivals even full-strength stouts. A 6-pack is priced at $16.