A decade ago, the idea that a bottle of non-alcoholic wine could be anything other than a pale imitation of the real thing was quite fringe.
But as the NA drinks movement continues to grow and diversify, there is no shortage of exceptional selections that achieve, or at least come very close to, the complexity of alcoholic ones. This is helping to bring a wider range of consumers—both drinkers and non-drinkers—into the alcohol-free fold.
Adam Kerr, director of food and beverage at Napa’s Bardessono Hotel & Spa, estimates that one in 50 guests are now asking for non-alcoholic wines, which has led the property to announce a “N/A-pa concierge” program to help guests find great bottles.
“Non-alcoholic wines have historically received a bad reputation in taste for good reasons, as the quality was just not there,” says Kerr. “Many brands who sell NA wines are making strides to overcome this stigma.”
Reds, in particular, have struggled to achieve the quality of NA sparkling and whites, but that’s changing. We decided it was time to tap drink pros for their picks.
These selections include both dealcoholized wines, which are traditionally-made wines with their alcohol removed, and alternatives that approximate the flavor and texture of wine. Both have their merits. Here are the top non-alcoholic red wines, according to professionals.
Image Coutesy of Missing Thorn Missing Thorn by Aaron Pott
Kerr credits the improving reputation of non-alcoholic wines to producers like Aaron Pott, one of the most well-respected winemakers in Napa.
This Article was originally published on Wine Enthusiast
