Struggling with Dry January or Zero Alcohol Wine?

Four weeks in, and the drinks press is still obsessing over Dry January, urging us to abstain from alcohol during what is arguably one of the dreariest months of the year. With short days, lean bank accounts, and post-holiday fatigue, skipping one of life’s simple pleasures feels like a challenge many of us could do without.

As someone who managed two non-alcoholic wine brands in the ’90s (and could barely bring myself to taste them, let alone drink them), this is a topic I usually steer clear of.

Thankfully, times have changed and so has the quality of alcohol-free options. Whether you’re embracing Dry January, heeding the World Health Organisation’s advice for two alcohol-free days a week, or simply seeking a flavourful low- or no-alcohol option, here are some delicious suggestions to explore.

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The Game-Changer: Matthew Jukes’ Cordialities

If you’re looking for a truly elevated experience, Matthew Jukes has curated a stunning range of alcohol-free, wine-styled Jukes Cordialities. These aren’t just good – they’re exceptional, earning almost every accolade possible and worldwide.

Available in concentrated form, these can be mixed with sparkling water or jazzed up with cranberry juice and watermelon ice cubes for a cocktail-style twist. Prefer something ready to go? Opt for the canned versions.

The concentrates come in an elegant tasting box of six, typically £20, but currently available at 50% off as an introductory offer.

Fresh, low in sugar, and bursting with flavour, these are head and shoulders above any other alcohol-free wine options. Definitely worth a try!  Head to Jukes Cordialities to tempt yourself.

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Mainstream Marvels

If you’re after more widely available options, here are a few supermarket gems I recommended in my Sunday Post column:

Nozeco Rosé, France – (Tesco, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s from £3)

Delicious alcohol-free fizz with delicate wild strawberry and raspberry fruit. Perfect aperitif.  This has to be a classic.

La Gioiosa 0.0% Alcohol Free Sparkling, Italy – (Morrisons £4.50)

Crunchy apples and sweet pears balanced by crisp grapefruit acidity.  Refreshingly sparkling, delicious alone or with desserts.

Alcohol Free Malbec, South Africa – (Tesco £3.25)

Rich and rounded with bright black cherries, damsons and soft tannins.  Try this with some tomato pasta dishes

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Beer Lovers, Rejoice

For beer enthusiasts, the alcohol-free scene has plenty to offer. Scotland’s Innes & Gunn Zero Lager stands out. Brewed with golden oats, it delivers creamy oat flavours balanced by bright citrus notes and a surprisingly long finish. Widely available, including Tesco (£4.50 for a four-pack).

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Something Different: Gosnells’ Nectar

For an unconventional treat, try Gosnells’ Nectar, a modern take on mead, brewed in Peckham. At 4% ABV, it’s a low-alcohol option with a refreshing twist.

• Hazy Nectar offers a lively mix of ripe pears and crunchy Cox apples.

  
  

• Raspberry Hibiscus Nectar bursts with juicy raspberries and floral notes.

  
  

Enjoy them straight or, for the adventurous, pair them with gin. Don’t let the word “mead” scare you – this is far from the fireside tipple of yesteryear.  Best place to get Gosnells is online here where you can get 20% off 12 cans for £32.50 .

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Botanical Delights

Botanical drinks have taken the market by storm. While Seedlip remains a fan favourite, Asda’s own range offers purse-friendly alternatives at just £10 a bottle:

• Rhubarb & Ginger or Classic Botanical Drink pair beautifully with tonic or ginger ale.

• Red Berries delivers a rosé-like experience.

• For a darker, spiced option, the Dark Spiced is fantastic with cola for a rum-style twist.

Whether you’re staying the course through Dry January or simply exploring some new alcohol-light or free alternatives, these options prove you don’t have to compromise on flavour.

Cheers to new discoveries – January doesn’t have to be so dry after all.