Those of us who want to drink without drinking at this time of year — perhaps in anticipation of a boozier Christmas — have long scoured the shelves for something that doesn’t taste anaemic, sugary or weirdly artificial.
Yes, there’s more choice, but it’s frankly not much higher in quality.
Now comes the real thing — not no-alcohol wine, which is fermented, vinified and only then de-alcoholised, but no-alcohol grape juice, made with all the seriousness of a top vintage tipple.
These new uber-sophisticated juices are made with all your favourite varieties of grape to get the characteristic aroma, palate and finish of a much-loved wine — a Chardonnay, a Merlot, a Riesling — but without the fuzzy head in the morning.
Sudi Pigott gives verdict on a selection of the best non-alcohol grape juices – including Modal Wines Slobodne ‘Must’ Red Grape Juice 2020 (pictured)
These wines are produced by highly-respected wine producers. They use the same varietal grapes that they used to make their award-winning wines.
The best part is that grape juice can be used to lower cholesterol and has the same benefits for your heart as red wine.
Intrigued? We were — so we poured, swilled and savoured. Here’s the verdict.
SWANKY SLOVAKIAN RED
Modal Wines Slobodne ‘Must’ Red Grape Juice 2020 (£10 for 1litre, shop.modalwines.com)
WHAT IS IT?Blaufrankisch, which means “blue Frankish” in German, is a 100% organically-grown dark-skinned grape variety. It is now being served by top sommeliers in swanky London eateries.
GRAPE TASTE It is a strong, floral fragrance with an added burst spice.
VERDICT:The drink is pleasant, although it’s not as complex or long-lasting as I would have liked for the cost. For an extra citrus kick, I added some lime juice. 4.5/5
CELEBRATORY ITALIAN SPRITZ
La Gioiosa Sparkling Alcohol Free (£3.50 for 750ml, groceries.morrisons.com)
Sudi said La Gioiosa Sparkling Alcohol Free (pictured) is remarkably good value and a well-made alternative to Prosecco
WHAT IS IT?The sparkling white wine is made from Glera Prosecco grapes. It’s produced by Moretti Polegato, third-generation winemakers in the Veneto area of Italy.
GRAPE TASTEIt has delicate elderflower, apple, and floral notes.
VERDICT:Prosecco can be a very good, affordable and delicious alternative. Perfect for showers that include many mothers-to-be. 4/5
GUILT-FREE GERMAN RIESLING
Van Nahmen Riesling (£3.35 for 250ml, thecheeseand wineshop.co.uk)
Sudi said Van Nahmen Riesling (pictured) is a well-made no-alcohol juice for those who like a medium-dry wine
WHAT IS IT? This white Riesling grape produces a rich, creamy juice that has a floral scent. The beautiful label would be a great addition to a holiday table.
GRAPE TASTEFlavors of gooseberry and white stone fruit with a hint of grass.
VERDICT:This is an easily recognized Riesling. It’s a high-quality, no-alcohol juice that will satisfy those who prefer a medium-dry wine. I can imagine drinking this with some goat’s cheese. 3.5/5
SPARKLER UNSATISFYING
Sparkling Grape Juice (£6.50 for 750ml, shop.thenewtinsomerset.com)
Sudi said Sparkling Grape Juice (pictured) is pleasant for a party if one wants to appear to be drinking
WHAT IS IT?White grape juice made from Semillon grapes, which were harvested in South Africa.
GRAPE TASTE Don’t be put off by the startling aroma of wet leaves — it gives way to a pleasingly tart gooseberry and melon taste, though it barely develops.
VERDICT: It is pleasant to attend a party, if you want to make it seem like one is drinking but not very satisfying to the taste buds. 2/5
SUPERBLY FESTIVE CHARDONAY
Harvey Nichols Alcohol-Free Sparkling Chardonnay (£10, harveynichols.com)
Sudi said Harvey Nichols Alcohol-Free Sparkling Chardonnay (pictured) is the best champagne substitute for festivities with guests who don’t drink
WHAT IS IT? This is made with green Chardonnay grapes and Maggie Beer. It’s not too sweet.
GRAPE TASTE An enticing aroma of melon and elderflower here — definitely the notes of a good Chardonnay. The Champagne-like aroma is evident.
VERDICT: Superb. The best champagne substitute for festivities with guests who don’t drink. 5/5
JEWEL-LIKE FRENCH MERLOT
Alain Milliat Merlot Grape Juice (£13.15 for three 330ml bottles, finefoodspecialist.co.uk)
Sudi said Alain Milliat Merlot Grape Juice (pictured) pairs perfectly with a casserole or roast beef for non-drinkers
WHAT IS IT? This juice is made from French Merlot grapes. It has a rich jewel-like color, lots of fruity aromas and some grassiness.
GRAPE TASTE After a good shake, it’s smooth and really does resemble a young Merlot wine.
VERDICT:Sparkling water or tonic can make the dish much more delicious, but it is perfectly fine with casseroles or roast beef. 3/5