We all know that alcohol-free spirits are on the rise, but AF whiskey? It’s a thing, officially. While there may not be as big a selection as there is AF gins and rums, the gaining popularity of booze free options means there’ll be plenty more where that came from. Hurrah!
Whether you like your flavours to mimic bourbon or scotch, single malt or blend, we’ve rounded up a selection of AF alternatives that taste just like the real thing. Whether you want to mix yours with coke, a helping of ice or add yours to a hot toddy, it’s up to you. Get experimenting!
This is also a gentle reminder that if you find the flavour of alcohol triggering, it’s best to steer clear in favour of the many delicious soft drink alternatives available in supermarkets and Sippers online.
Please note: Items included in this blog post have been hand-picked and curated by our editorial team. We may earn commission if you purchase something through the links provided.
1. GNISTA Floral Wormwood
This Swedish brand has been on the scene for eight years and makes both wine and spirits without any whiff of alcohol. There’s no trace of animal products either, a big win for vegans. This is surprisingly refreshing for a AF whiskey, with florals, herbs and orange peel featuring in each mouthful. Watch out for the bitter aftertaste that gives it that authentic whiskey flavor, albeit without the booze! Give it a go with a splash of tonic and you may just find your new summer AF beverage.
2. GNISTA Barreled Oak
From the same Swedish folk, this is a far deeper, smokier version for those who want a rich, deep finish to their AF whiskey. We’re talking spices, chocolate and an oaky aftertaste that lingers – as the name suggests! Its warm notes make it a good introduction to those of you looking for a booze free rum alternative, too. Serve with a helping of soda water or ginger beer.
3. Lyre’s American Malt
Calling all SGS babes with a sweet tooth! This is one to pop into your virtual basket. From the bourbon family of AF spirits, expect a tantalising blend of vanilla, honey and sweet spices with an aftertaste of toasted nuts. Got you interested? There’s more; not only is it gluten-free and vegan friendly, it’s surprisingly low in sugar, too. Another classic from an established non-alcoholic drinks brand, all you need it a splash of coke to make a classic, thirst quenching American drink – no booze necessary.
4. Feragaia Distilled Alcohol Free Spirit
Looking for a sugar free AF spirit? You’ve come to the right place. Born and made in Scotland in 2019, it’s still a new brand but the makers behind this product know their stuff. Distilled in Fife, no alcohol graces these bottles but instead you’ll get an impressive mix of land and sea botanicals that deliver such a depth of flavour that you’ll be wondering why you ever needed booze in your drink. At first sip you’ll get a refreshing hit of lemon verbena and blackcurrant, swiftly followed by a spicier hit from the pink peppercorns. Delicious!
5. Whissin Alcohol-Free Whiskey Alternative
Hailing from sunny Spain, this has all the same elements you’d expect from a whiskey, but it’s not been fermented. On the sweeter side of your average AF spirit, it makes a great starring role in a mocktail like an Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour.
6. Three Spirit Nightcap Non-Alcoholic Alternative Spirit
There’s a reason behind the name of this rather sophisticated refreshment. The botanical ingredients have been deliberately selected for their relaxing and soothing benefits, helping to create the ideal state for sleeping. As for the taste, we love the warm, citrus notes mixed with vanilla that give it a serious chilled out vibe.
You’ll guarantee you won’t wake up with a hangover, either!
7. Dochus Alcohol Free Whiskey Alternative
Considering Scotland is known for its whiskey accolades, you know you’re onto something authentic with this brand which features water that runs through the Cairngorm mountains in its production. For those who can’t decide between sweet and oaky, this meets it in the middle, with vanilla and caramel flavours giving way to a smokey and spicy after taste. One to impress the parents with!
Take your pick of these alcohol-free whiskeys and let us know which one is your favourite! Want more alcohol-free alternatives? Take a look at our guide to the best non-alcoholic lagers, best non-alcoholic mixers ,best alcohol-free rums, our favourite alcohol-free Aperol Spritz’s and check out our founder Millie’s Amazon choices HERE.