At the end of every conversation on the Low No Drinker Podcast, I ask my guests the BBQ Question:
“Imagine it’s a hot sunny day, and you’re off to a BBQ at a friend’s house, and you’re bringing some drinks along with you. Other than your own amazing liquid, what else do you like to enjoy on days when you’re choosing not to drink full-strength alcohol?”
I’ve recorded everyone’s responses, and these are the top most recommended drinks of 2024 by the founders and industry experts guesting on the LND Podcast:
1. In joint first place, it’s Botivo & Lucky Saint
Botivo
Botivo is a non-alcoholic, slow-sipping botanical drink. Think bitter, herbaceous and citrusy. Full of personality and character(s), Botivo is all about bringing the fun to the party.
Lucky Saint
Lucky Saint is the leading UK alcohol-free beer brand. In fact, they are so ubiquitous now that you can even find them in supermarket lunch meal deals! Initially, only produced as a lager; in 2024, they added a Hazy IPA to its family.
2. In joint second place, it’s Guinness 0.0 & Real Sparkling Teas
Guinness 0.0
Despite their current production struggles (at the time of writing, Guinness is rationing the supply of their dark nectar to pubs all across the UK and Ireland due to an inability to meet the rising demand), Guinness 0.0 remains one of the most successful examples of ‘big alcohol’ stepping into the low/no/light drinking sphere.
REAL Sparkling Teas
REAL is a sparkling tea range produced in the UK’s first non-alcoholic fermentery in Buckinghamshire. Founder David Begg insists his drinks are not mere kombuchas but much, much more.
3. In joint third place, it’s Big Drop, Noughty & Small Beer
Thomson & Scott
Noughty is an AF OG! Produced by Amanda Thomson to provide the finest non-alc wine experiences for those who choose to drink less but who still like to be a little bit naughty.
Big Drop
Big Drop is headed up by Rob Fink and has one of the punchiest, hoppiest AF beer selections around.
Small Beer
I was pleased to see a mid-range drink make the list. Small Beer’s selection of light-alcohol beers ranges from 2.1% - 2.6%, giving you all the beer but only half the booze.
There were 68 other brands recommended from all over the world and in every category you can think of. Some were drinks I love myself, and some I’d never heard of.
I’m looking forward to seeing what’s on the list next year.
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