So, you drew the short straw and were assigned the task of being the designated driver for your squad’s night out. It’s not all bad though, as the responsible driver, you’re the superstar who ensures everyone gets home safely. Or maybe you’re watching your waistline, and fancy all the flavour without the calorie baggage. Either way – it’ll be someone else’s turn next time.
Now, if you’re planning on using your friend’s van to get everyone home, you may want to get yourself some temporary van insurance for the occasion. It’ll give you comprehensive cover to drive the van and it can be arranged in minutes. It’s one less thing to worry about on a night out anyway.
But being the designated driver doesn’t mean you can’t have a drink and enjoy the night. With so many non-alcoholic beer options on the market, you can finally kiss those mediocre soda and lime drinks goodbye. Check out our top picks for non-alcoholic beers that will perfectly complement your role as the (possibly reluctant) designated driver.
Guinness 0.0%
For the beer lovers out there, the Guinness 0.0% is a game-changer. This non-alcoholic beer has the same bitter notes that remind the drinker of the well-known stout.
In fact, the brewing process for the non-alcoholic Guinness starts out the same way as it does for the alcoholic version. But, the alcohol is then removed through an innovative filtration method to retain the well-known flavour.
With “everything except the alcohol” in it, you can expect a balanced flavour and a smooth taste. It’s the perfect option for those who prefer darker beers with an authentic taste. Plus, it’s low in calories. Win-win.
Heineken 0.0%
If you’re looking for a beer that tastes just like the real deal, then Heineken 0.0% is a great option. It’s fresh and clean, and you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference between this non-alcoholic version and the original. It’s also perfect for those hot summer days when a stout might feel a little heavy.
Expect the refreshing taste of fruity notes from this great tasting non-alcoholic beer which contains the same ingredients as the original Heineken, minus the alcohol of course.
Brewdog Hazy Jane AF
This one is for those pale ale fans that like to look down on lagers and tour breweries for fun. But seriously, if you’re in the mood for a delicious IPA, then you can’t go wrong with Brewdog’s Hazy Jane AF. This non-alcoholic beer is big on tropical fruit, with hints of mango and passionfruit.
It’s hoppy, juicy, with a slight hint of maltyness and full of flavour, making it a great option for those who want a refreshing IPA (minus the booze). So if you enjoy your IPAs, make sure you check out the Hazy Jane AF when it’s your turn to take the wheel after a night out.
Birra Moretti Zero Alcohol Free Beer
If you’re a fan of Italian lagers, the Birra Moretti Zero Alcohol Free Beer is a great choice. “Brewed with Italian passion”, this non-alcoholic beer will go well with your ravioli and Chinese alike.
If you enjoy a hoppy beer with citrusy undertones, then you’ll love this non alcoholic Moretti alternative. The folks at Birra Moretti have been brewing since 1859, so they know a little something about making great-tasting beer; with or without the alcohol.
Kopparberg Alcohol Free Strawberry and Lime
Love ciders? If you’re in the mood for something fruity and refreshing, the Kopparberg Alcohol-Free Strawberry and Lime is the perfect choice.This non-alcoholic cider is packed with punchy notes of fresh strawberries and a hint of lime too.
It’s a great option for those who want a lighter, more refreshing drink. So if you’re planning a boozy day out at the beach, or a BBQ at your friend’s house, you can rely on the Kopparberg Strawberry and Lime to keep you going.
Leffe Blonde 0.0%
The Leffe Blonde 0.0% is the perfect Belgian non-alcoholic beer. You can’t go wrong if you’re looking for a spice-filled fruity flavour. And if you love Leffe, you’ll love the no booze version just as much.
This non-alcoholic beer has hints of clove and vanilla, making it a great choice for those who want a sweet beer with smokey notes. A light and refreshing drink, it’s a perfect all-rounder whether you’re downing pints at the pub or enjoying a beer at your summer BBQ.
Brewdog Nanny State 0.5%
The Brewdog Nanny State is a flavourful hoppy ale that packs a punch. Brewdog does it again, proving that non-alcoholic beer can be complex and rich in bitter, malty, hoppy flavours.
Expect a hoppy pine-like bitterness that’s balanced out by sweet malts if you give the Nanny State a go. Inspired by North American hops, don’t be surprised if Brewdog’s ale reminds you of your trip to the States last year. We’re not responsible for any spontaneously booked trips resulting from nostalgia-infused drinking sessions.
Anyway, all we’re saying is that the Brewdog Nanny State is a solid option for a solid designated driver. Can’t go wrong with Brewdog.
Non-alcoholic beers for the designated driver
Who says being the designated driver has to be boring? With the plethora of non-alcoholic beer options available, you can still have a great time and be responsible too. Plus, you won’t have to deal with the dreaded hangover the next day. That’s a win from our perspective.
From fruity IPAs to hoppy lagers, there is a non-alcoholic beer out there for every taste bud. So, next time you’re the designated driver, grab a cold one and enjoy your night out safe in the knowledge that you’ll be able to take your friends home at the end of the night.
With so many alcohol-free choices available, there’s no need to feel left out. So cheers to being the responsible one!
