From sparkling rose to gin & red wine, we put new low & no-alcohol products to the test
“DRY” and “January” are two words that fill me with dread.
But laying off the booze, even for a week, can mean improved hydration, energy, mood, sleep, immunity and memory.
For years, zero and low-alcohol drinks have not been a patch on the real thing.
But many firms are upping their game.
To help you quit or cut down, here I try new low and no-alcohol products.
ROSE WINE
DELLA Vite Rose is a non-alcoholic sparkling rose made by model Cara Delevingne and her sisters Poppy and Chloe.
Their third booze-free offering, it was so popular when it launched that it sold out in days.
Made of selected grenache grapes from the South of France, it has just 2.7g of sugar and 12 calories per 100ml.
It isn’t too dry or sweet, and has a slight strawberry taste.
It’s refreshing, tastes like the real deal, just like a decent prosecco should, and the bottle gives it a luxurious feel.
£14.99 75cl bottle, selfridges.co.uk
GIN
HERE’S another celebrity tipple to try, care of CleanCo, founded by former Made In Chelsea star Spencer Matthews.
The company sports a roster of alcohol-free versions of whisky, tequila and rum.
It also has a gin alternative which I tried. I love this one, it’s my favourite of the three I tested.
You mix the drink as you normally would, but it’s a much healthier option with 12 calories per 100ml and no sugar.
You’d never guess the main ingredient is water either, as it has a lovely flavour, created with natural flavourings including juniper, lemon, orange, grapefruit, rosemary and lavender.
With some slimline tonic, it’s a refreshing, grown-up drink that makes me feel like I am having a “proper” one.
£10 for 700ml (asda.com)
RED WINE
THIS isn’t alcohol free – but is low alcohol.
6Percent Red is a new and innovative bottle of red that is six per cent ABV.
Made in the Bordeaux region of France, the grapes are pressed and the wine is fermented in the vineyard.
Then, using new technology, the makers gently reduce the alcohol content.
A mix of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, it has half the calories – at 44 calories – as well as half the alcohol of your usual glass with just 0.4g sugar per 100ml.
Taste wise, it is slightly lighter than your average red.
But as I don’t like heavy red wine, I loved 6Percent.
Price is £12.50 a bottle, but get ten per cent off your first order and discounts on a case (6percent.wine)