The no- and low-alcohol category continues its rapid ascent, surpassing $11 billion in value in 2022 and projected to grow by a third by 2026, according to new IWSR data. From prohibitionist movements like Dry January to health awareness campaigns and the sober curious movement, the no-lo beverage sector has seen a surge in consumer demand, and is expected to drive over 90% of this growth, becoming a dominant force in the beverage market. 

The Bartender Spirits Awards 2024, judged by some of the top bartenders in the USA, highlights the best non-alcoholic spirits for those in the industry seeking to elevate their offerings. These spirits not only deliver rich, complex flavor profiles but also provide a sophisticated option for creating mocktails, enabling bartenders to cater to the growing preference for alcohol-free alternatives while enhancing the overall drinking experience for their clientele.

1. The Spirit of Bourbon, Gold Medal (91 Points)

The Spirit of Bourbon, produced by The Free Spirits Company, opens with inviting cocoa notes, followed by a strong presence of clove on the nose. Its heavily spiced, complex palate offers a pleasant heat, making it an ideal substitute for traditional bourbon. This versatile spirit is perfect for creating non-alcoholic versions of classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.

Image Title & Source: The Spirit of Bourbon

2. The Spirit of Tequila, Gold Medal (90 Points)

With flavors of jalapeno, bell peppers, and black pepper, The Spirit of Tequila by The Free Spirits Company packs a flavorful punch. Its light mouthfeel, combined with the heat of traditional tequila, makes it an excellent choice for crafting non-alcoholic margaritas or Palomas. This well-balanced substitute delivers an authentic agave experience without the alcohol.

Image Title & Source: The Spirit of Tequila

3. Blue Cliff Premium Non-Alcohol Bourbon Style Whiskey, Silver Medal (88 Points)

Blue Cliff’s Non-Alcoholic Bourbon Style Whiskey delivers a unique experience with root beer notes at the forefront, accompanied by hints of caramel and raw sugar. Its pleasantly spiced finish offers bartenders a perfect base for non-alcoholic versions of whiskey-based drinks, making it a great addition to mocktail menus.

Image Title & Source: Blue Cliff Premium Non-Alcohol Bourbon Style Whiskey

4. The Spirit of Gin, Silver Medal (88 Points)

The Spirit of Gin presents bright notes of cardamom, lime, and citrus pith, giving it a lively, sharp character. With a spiced finish reminiscent of black pepper, this non-alcoholic gin offers bartenders a solid foundation for classic gin cocktails such as a non-alcoholic Negroni or a G&T, without compromising on the complexity of flavor.

Image Title & Source: The Spirit of Gin

5. Seven Giants - Blanco Style, Silver Medal (87 Points)

With fruity notes of apple and bubblegum, Seven Giants - Blanco Style offers a unique sweetness that carries through the nose and palate. The subtle sweetness makes it a fun alternative to traditional tequila for bartenders looking to add a light, refreshing twist to non-alcoholic cocktails.

Image Title & Source: Seven Giants - Blanco Style

Also Read: A Selection of Winning Fruit Spirits at the Bartender Spirits Awards 2024

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6. Cut Above Whiskey, Silver Medal (84 Points)

Light notes of banana, caramel, and vanilla characterize Cut Above Whiskey, which finishes with a slight spice. This spirit can easily replace an aged rum or bourbon in a non-alcoholic cocktail, making it a versatile option for bartenders looking to offer complexity in alcohol-free drinks.

Image Title & Source: Cut Above Whiskey

7. Cut Above Mezcal, Silver Medal (83 Points)

With its buttery aroma and smoky taste, Cut Above Mezcal provides a robust flavor experience. The light agave notes make it a perfect choice for bartenders seeking to craft non-alcoholic Palomas or Margaritas, giving patrons the mezcal experience without the alcohol.

Image Title & Source: Cut Above Mezcal

8. Dr ZeroZero AmarNo, Silver Medal (82 Points)

Reminiscent of traditional Amaro, Dr ZeroZero AmarNo brings heavy Gentian root flavors, complemented by minty, herbaceous, and slightly bitter notes. This non-alcoholic beverage works excellently as a digestif, offering bartenders a non-alcoholic alternative for customers seeking a bitter, complex finish to their meal.

Image Title & Source: Dr ZeroZero AmarNo

9. Diane's Bloody Mary Original, Silver Medal (87 Points)

With ripe tomato flavors, Diane’s Bloody Mary Original offers a soft heat balanced by notes of white and black pepper and celery. Bartenders can use this non-alcoholic base to create a classic Bloody Mary experience without alcohol, ideal for brunch menus.

Image Title & Source: Diane's Bloody Mary Original

10. The Spirit of Vermouth Rosso, Bronze Medal (73 Points)

The Spirit of Vermouth Rosso offers notes of clove and bubblegum with a soft mouthfeel and light acidity. While its texture is slightly thin, the long aftertaste makes it an interesting option for bartenders crafting non-alcoholic aperitifs or mocktails.

Image Title & Source: The Spirit of Vermouth Rosso

Incorporating non-alcoholic spirits into your bar’s offerings can broaden your clientele and meet the growing demand for quality alcohol-free alternatives. The award-winning spirits recognized by the Bartender Spirits Awards 2024 provide bartenders with a range of flavors and complexities, allowing for creative, sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails. Adding these standout spirits to your bar's inventory will enhance your menu and deliver memorable experiences for your guests. For a comprehensive overview into the winning spirits of 2024, take a look at the complete list of winners.

Header image sourced from Unsplash.

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