Whether you're an all-year-around teetotaler, want to cut back on your alcohol intake, or even just test yourself for a month, there are loads of benefits to cutting out drinking this (or any) month. Non-alcoholic drinks are becoming more and more popular with those who are keen to avoid a hangover but still want to have fun and enjoy a nice (booze-free) drink during social outings.
There are loads of reasons to reach for low or non-alcoholic drinks instead of alcoholic, including being lower in calories, helping you to stay hydrated, helping you to stay alert and engaged, and avoiding the dreaded hangxiety the morning after.
One celeb who's a big fan of a non-alcoholic option? Avid wine connoisseur and former Made in Chelsea star Sophie Habboo. The podcast host and new Mrs Jamie Laing took to Instagram to share her ultimate choice for low-alcohol wine, which looks v v similar to Whispering Angel wine. Secret's out: it's the French Bloom Le Rosé organic French bubbly (£33.99).
Thanks, Habbs. Along with Sophie's favourite non-alcoholic rosé, we've rounded up some of our top non-alcoholic drinks to try if you're ditching the booze.
SHOP: The best alcohol-free drinks that actually taste good
Selfridgeswww.selfridges.com
Also known as Sophie Habboo's fav non-alcoholic wine, this French Bloom choice is one to invest in if you're really looking for a staple low-percent bubbly.
Clean Co clean.co
Spencer Matthews from Made in Chelsea sure knows how to make a good tipple. Choose from 'clean' gin, tequila, whiskey, rum (our favourite) and more if you're looking for an alcohol-free option.
TanquerayPlenty of the well-known brands you'll find in the supermarket are getting in on the low and no alcohol hype, but this option from Tanqueray is particularly impressive. It's delightfully refreshing, flavoursome and really does give you that G&T feeling.
Torres Natureo Winesdrydrinker.com
Of all the non-alcoholic wines we've tried (and there have been a lot), Torres Natureo wines came out on top as the one with the most 'realistic' flavour. We love the Garnacha and Syrah red blend and the dry Muscat for a white option.
CodorníuFor a fizz that doesn't just take like apple juice, we love Codorníu's alcohol-free sparkling wine. Ideal for special occasions or just because, you can choose from white or rosè.
SavyllA cocktail in a can is a must-have for a day in the park, or great to take the edge off after a long day. Savyll's non-alcoholic canned cocktails are some of the most delicious we've tried, packed with authentic, complex flavours. Our favourite has to be the bellini, but from the four options available (mojito, Moscow mule, Paloma), there wasn't one we didn't like.
Kopparbergwww.tesco.com
Cider lovers, there's something for you, too. Kopparberg offers alcohol-free versions of its best-selling flavours. This variety box gives you the best of all of them, and you really wouldn't know it's sans booze.
Guinnesswww.tesco.com
For stout fans, you really can't do any better than Guinness 0.0%. It's truly a superb alcohol-free option. Slightly lighter than the OG but still with that iconic taste, we're big fans.
Coronawww.tesco.com
Most alcohol-free beers are a great option, but Corona's Cero is really similar to the real thing and provides that refreshing summer beer feeling, especially with a lime slice.
Beavertownbeavertownbrewery.co.uk
Fans of an IPA will love Lazer Crush from Beavertown, which truly is a flavour explosion. Fruity, sharp and ultra-drinkable, this is a great low-alcohol option (0.3%).
Three Spiritthreespiritdrinks.com
Herbal and natural drinks more your vibe? This drink from Three Spirit is a unique alternative made with lion’s mane mushroom, yerba mate and damiana, so you can get on it (minus the hangover).
Lyre'slyres.co.uk
Lyre's' delicious non-alcoholic spirits range has everything from a dry gin to an amaretti, so it's perfect for cocktail night.
TRIPThey're not a fake booze, but these canned drinks promise to help you relax, unwind, and find balance. They tase FIT too.
What are the benefits of opting for an alcohol-free drink?
We've already covered the fact that there's no hangover attached to drinking non-alcoholic drinks, but here are some other benefits:
• Consuming fewer units of alcohol
• Lower calories
• Less sugar
• Doesn't impact your behaviour or cognitive abilities
• There are a huge variety of options to choose from
• They're quite often cheaper than alcoholic drinks
Why do non-alcoholic drinks mimic alcoholic drinks?
In the UK, our social events often revolve around drinking, which means if you're cutting down, you might feel left out. While many people will be happy with a glass of lemonade or ginger ale, having options that mimic the taste and feel of an alcoholic drink can ensure you or your guests feel included and relaxed.
How to make non-alcoholic drinks feel more special
If you like drinking alcoholic drinks but don't want any of the negative side effects, a little psychology can go a long way. By presenting the drink in a proper glass and making an event of it (i.e. adding garnish to a G&T or mixing non-alcoholic cocktails and serving them in a fancy glass), you can still enjoy a celebration fully.
Jade Moscrop is the Commercial Content Editor for Closer, specialising in lifestyle topics. When she’s not writing about affordable homeware, beauty products and gym leggings, she can usually be found on a hot girl walk, buying houseplants or listening to female-fronted rock bands.