From botanical aperitifs to crafty IPAs, here are the best 0% options for an evening buzz without the hangover.

Written by: Liz Connor
Written on: August 5, 2026
Nothing signals the end of a long day like the satisfying sound of a cold drink hitting the bottom of a glass. But with studies finding that alcohol, even in small amounts, isn't always what's best for health and wellbeing, and an expanding sober-curious crowd, the drinks market is booming with alternative ways to curb that five o'clock craving.
And it’s not just about avoiding a fuzzy head the next day either. The new wave of wellness sips is just as much about packing in more of the good stuff as it is about swerving the less desirable side effects, with targeted compounds and functional ingredients for a buzz without the booze.
Curious to find a signature tipple that doesn't tank your Oura sleep score? Whether you're a tee-totaler, wine-lover looking for a more functional bev, or simply preparing for parenthood, level up your nightcap and restock your bar cart with our picks of the best non-alcohol drinks and mocktails, with help from an expert non-drinker.
“Distilled from six botanicals for a classic G&T bite, this clean spirit is my favourite gin alternative on the market,” says Emily Syphas, founder of mindful drinking community Sober and Social (@soberandsocial_). “It’s also loaded with a range of natural nootropics and B vitamins to help you carve out a moment of calm.”
Available for purchase at smilingwolf.com.
Dreamt up by a team of plant scientists, award-winning bartenders, herbalists and winemakers, this woody spirit is designed with the aim of lulling you into sounder sleep. It does this by recruiting the help of naturally calming lemon balm, valerian and hops, plus adaptogenic ashwagandha for balancing out fast-paced days.
Available for purchase at healf.com.
“This versatile aperitif pairs well with tonic, but you can also enjoy it on the rocks for an easy-to-pour wind-down,” Syphas says. Bittersweet and earthy, it’s designed to mimic the bitter mouthfeel of spritz-style liqueurs like Aperol or Campari, making it the perfect base for a sippable summer spritz.
Available for purchase at everleafdrinks.com.
If nosing a pint of the hoppy stuff at a craft brewery is more your thing, Collider’s extra sessionable pale ales are sure to be your ideal fridge mate. “Each brew is microdosed with a blend of functional mushrooms, said to help support better sleep and relaxation,” Syphas notes.
Available for purchase at drinkcollider.com.
The OG of zero-alcohol beverages, Seedlip's herbal spirit is a favourite among mindful drinking circles for good reason. With cucumber, fresh pea and dry notes of hay, this herbaceous spirit pairs exceptionally well with a fizzy kombucha, or a slice of fresh lime and cranberry for a virgin twist on a Cosmo.
Available for purchase at thewhiskyexchange.com.
Not only does this sparkling cuvée taste the part, but it also makes a classic ‘pop’ when you uncork it. “Crafted from organic French Chardonnay grapes grown in Limoux, this is the fizz I routinely reach for when I’m in the mood to celebrate,” says Syphas.
Available for purchase at uk.frenchbloom.com.
“The fiery burn of a high-proof whisky is hard to replicate, but this flavourful aperitif has nailed the brief,” Syphas says. With just four ingredients: apple cider vinegar, ginger, blossom honey and a touch of chilli, it’s an immunity-friendly nightcap for lovers of a late-night dram.
Available for purchase at motherroot.com.
With hints of yuzu and rosemary, this satisfyingly bittersweet aperitif evokes sun-soaked afternoons on the Mediterranean coast. Free from artificial flavours and added sugar, it’s a go-to pour that won’t compromise your gut health goals.
Le Spritz also comes in two other flavours: a bitter blood orange, reminiscent of an Aperol Spritz, and Sumac & Chili, which has more of a kick.
Available for purchase at healf.com.
Recruiting only the best British apples, this lightly sparkling crowd pleaser has a citrusy, almost stone-fruit flavour that’s arguably just as complex as its boozier counterparts. The perfect pairing for BBQs and al fresco dinners, keep a couple of bottles chilled in the fridge ahead of the next hot weather weekend.
Available for purchase at chancecider.com.
Craving a spicy marg? This blanco-style tequila alternative captures all the sweet agave and peppery spice of the original clear spirit. Sup it neat or shake with ice, fresh lime juice, chilli and orange bitters for a booze-free happy hour. Just don’t forget the salt rim.
Available for purchase at hedonism.co.uk.
Keen to forgo watery mugs of herbal tea in favour of something more special? The first step is to invest in some smart glassware. “A crystal tumbler or long-stemmed wine glass can completely change the experience of sipping a non-alcoholic drink,” Syphas says. The same goes for adding ice, and honing in on fresh fruits and a fun garnish. “Try mixing different drinks together too,” she suggests, “topping up a botanical spirit with a no-ABV sparkling wine for a healthier twist on a classic spritz.”
If you’re new to the world of booze-free blends, why not rally your mates for an exploratory evening of functional drinking? Sharing a great bottle with friends always makes for a more memorable evening, Syphas says.
This article is for informational purposes only, even if and regardless of whether it features the advice of physicians and medical practitioners. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The views expressed in this article are the views of the expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Healf
Liz Connor is a features journalist, editor and brand copywriter based in London.