Illustration by James O'Brien
Nonalcoholic wines go through vinification, developing flavor through yeast and time, but at the end of the process, the alcohol is removed to trace levels. Like regular wines, not every bottle is worth sharing, but we’ve found five of the best available throughout the Queen City.
Ariel Chardonnay
While the opening notes are a touch too sweet, the final impression is fantastic. It’s complex for a dealcoholized wine, but it moves between elements with grace, delivering a parting kiss of delightfully mild tannins. Available locally at Jungle Jim’s in Eastgate.
Josh Nonalcoholic Sparkling Beverage
Not as dry as Champagne, but better than many regular sparkling wines, this is a friendly alternative to classic bubbles. The smell reads as wine, and while the fizz may hide a few weaknesses, this wine makes for very enjoyable sipping. Available locally at Party Town in Florence.
Leitz’s Eins Zwei Zero Nonalcoholic Riesling
Riesling may be the best wine for dealcoholizing. Crisp and dry with gentle notes of pear to contrast the minerality, this sparkling wine could hold its own on a table with rich pork, fresh sushi, or ceviche. Available locally at Ripple Wine Bar in Covington.
Leitz’s Eins Zwei Zero Nonalcoholic Rosé
With a pinot noir base and a frenzy of bubbles, this sparkler may become your favorite weeknight drink (or brunch companion). It’s subtly fruity, faintly floral, and well-rounded. Available locally at Ripple Wine Bar in Covington.
Underwood Nonalcoholic Rosé Bubbles
It’s a rosé, so expect a little sweetness. But it behaves well, lurking just above the tannins, present without turning saccharine. A punchy grapefruit note leads the fray, complicating the natural sugars with a tart pucker to keep things interesting. Available locally at The Party Source in Bellevue.
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