9 non-alcoholic drinks to keep your next girls' night hangover-free
Who says you need liquor for a well-crafted drink?
When was the last time you went to a social gathering that didn’t feature a glass in everyone’s hands? We live in a world where celebrations often revolve around the clinking of glasses and indulgence in spirited libations. But there’s a growing community of individuals who are choosing to be sober-curious – embracing non-alcoholic drinks without sacrificing the joy of partaking in the festivities. Gone are the days when being a non-drinker – or someone still recovering from doing the Naagin dance with Monty uncle last night – meant you were limited to water or club soda with a lime wedge. The sober-curious revolution has inspired myriad companies to sprout up, offering a wild mix of tasty non-alcoholic drinks to titillate teetotalers.
These tipples often mirror the complex flavours of masterful cocktails. From crisp botanical sodas to zero-proof versions of rum and coke, the world of non-alcoholic drinks has evolved into an exciting and creative domain of its own.
Whether you’re a health-conscious gym bunny, a teetotaller who prefers their hydration without a head-spinning punch, a wellness guru in the making or just plain sober curious, the landscape of non-alcoholic drinks in India has plenty to offer.
Have you tried these non-alcoholic drinks yet?
Sober Gin, ₹1,699
Sober Gin has been a long-time crowd-favourite with the tagline “Tastes like gin, burns like gin. But doesn’t get you drunk.” With no sugar, gluten or carbs, this will add just five calories per serving. This lovely faux gin features a blend of Himalayan juniper, ashwagandha, tulsi and other therapeutic herbs. So, you could technically tell your mum this is good for health.
They also have a limited edition Sober Rum, with spicy and tropical notes of vanilla, pineapple, cocoa beans and clove. Perfect for giving your Old Monk and coke a face lift.
Gunsberg Ginger Grapefruit Ale, ₹99
Maybe we’ve been hypnotised by the sleep paralysis demon hell cat on the bottle (we love it), but there’s something about this bad boy by Gunsberg. It boasts a delicate, fresh grapefruit flavour that’s fancier than a penguin at a black-tie affair.
Umami Brew Kombucha, ₹960 (pack of 6)
Umami may be a difficult taste to describe, but Umami Brew knocks it out of the park with their fermented kombucha drinks.
While kombucha does have trace amounts of alcohol, Umami Brew’s creators assure consumers that theirs are non-alcoholic drinks that even children can enjoy. Besides, they’re meant to improve gut health.
You’ve got many fun flavours to try, from Pineapple Spice to Apple Cinnamon and Coffee Nutmeg, though our eyes are set on the Kokum Ginger.
Svami Pink Gin & Tonic, ₹95
“The world is drinking zero-proof, and who are we to deny them?” asks Svami on their website, where they’ve taken two iconic drink combinations and gave them a non-alcoholic twist.
The Rum & Cola is their homegrown low-cal version that’s flavoured with caramel, vanilla and cinnamon to come as close to a traditional Rum and Coke with lime as possible.
Their non-alcoholic Gin & Tonic is a blend of botanicals and citruses, and they also have a slight variation with a pink hue that purpotedly adds strawberry to the recipe and is just *chef’s kiss*.
Coolberg Mint Beer, ₹594 (pack of 6)
Why does mint remain a beloved flavour regardless of the calendar’s whims? It’s the herb’s uncanny knack for adapting to our moods and environments. Mint is more than a taste; it’s an experience. It cools us when we’re hot, warms us when we’re cold, and adds a touch of vitality to every sip or bite.
That’s why we always gravitate towards mint from Coolberg’s variety of flavours in their non-alcoholic beer range, though you might want to try the cranberry too.
Santé Fruit Drink, ₹60 (approx.)
Sante’s malt-based drinks use natural fruit juices with a fizzy twist. This is perhaps the most readily available non-alcoholic drink you’ll spot at most wine shops.
Drink it straight from the can or, if you feel like experimenting, try mixing your very own signature mocktail.
3Sisters German Lager, ₹594 (pack of 6)
This one is for those who enjoy beer’s flavour as much as the buzz. What we love even more about the 3Sisters non-alcoholic beer is that you can get the German Lager flavour in a classic or sugar-free version.
If sugar is not something you have a problem with, we recommend picking up a variety pack that lets you try out all the flavours before committing to one for your next house party.
Sepoy & Co. Original Ginger Ale, ₹1,320 (pack of 12)
Sepoy & Co. are known for their award-winning mixers, but their lemonades are pretty fantastic, too. In fact, there isn’t really anything in their collection that doesn’t live up to the hype.
If it’s ginger ale that you want, look no further. They’ve perfectly balanced citrus with ginger to make a drink that’s a pleasure to have. It’s not too tart; you don’t need to add sweeteners or have a scoop of vanilla ice cream afterwards to drown the warm, peppery zing on your tongue.
If you’re looking to shake things up the next time you get together with your friends, do a mixology night and try out the many delicious recipes they’ve shared on their website.
Local Ferment Co. Shrub Soda, ₹550 (pack of 4)
This has to be one of the most interesting drinks we’ve encountered in a while. Made by Local Ferment Co, a micro-brewery and kitchen based in Bengaluru, shrub soda sounds like something you’d expect to see in an Archie comic.
Shrub used to be a method of fruit preservation, which this team has adapted to include some unique flavours. Their shrub soda is an infusion of fruit, sparkling water and a splash of vinegar. We’ll kick it old-school with the Cherry Cola.
*This article has been edited to update prices
