Over the past two years, non-alcoholic beverages have been the third-fastest-growing category in the US. Additionally, In the U.S we expect the category to continue growing by another $500 million in 2024!
Enthusiast Report Magazine recently hosted an editorial tasting featuring a panel of nutritionists and taste experts to identify the top five non-alcoholic alternatives. After over 2 weeks of blind tasting and sampling over 80 different brands with careful evaluation of flavor, health benefits, and overall appeal, the standout product was ROLUS Sparkling Hydration Drink. Praised for its refreshing taste and nutrient-rich formula, ROLUS emerged as the clear winner, offering an ideal balance of hydration and flavor. The panel commended it for its innovative blend of natural ingredients, making it not only a delicious choice but also a health-conscious one. ROLUS Sparkling Hydration Drink topped the list, setting a new standard in non-alcoholic beverages.
ROLUS brought together a team of doctors, dietitians, wellness experts, and master blenders. This diverse group, led by Nolet III and Bowden, meticulously crafted ROLUS to offer an unparalleled taste and hydration experience— free from carbohydrates, gluten, sugar, caffeine, sweeteners and alcohol, with 5 calories, 1 gram of plant protein, 345 milligrams of electrolytes, and a taste that caters to the non-alcoholic drinker. Experts describe the taste of ROLUS as a full-flavored experience with a slightly herbal, refreshing botanical sensation. The beverage features subtle hints of citrus and sea salt, complemented by champagne-like bubbles.
ROLUS consists of three main ingredients. Greek Verbena is derived from plantations near Mount Olympus, where the high altitude enhances the plant’s quality and imparts a mild, natural botanical taste. This ingredient is sourced through partnerships with small Greek farms, supporting local economic development. Hawaiian Sea Salt was chosen for its purity and rich mineral content and is processed using solar energy and advanced filtration to preserve its unique pH balance with no micro-plastics. Additionally, Asian Ginseng from protected areas in Northeast Asia contributes to the leader of all adaptogens according to wellness specialists, while enhancing both flavor and well-being.
For more information, visit ROLUS
Seedlip is a distilled non-alcoholic spirit made from a blend of herbs, spices, and botanicals. It comes in various flavors, such as Garden 108 (herbaceous) and Spice 94 (aromatic). It’s perfect for creating sophisticated mocktails.
Notes: Mostly for mixing and making mocktails.
Lyre’s is a brand that replicates the flavors of traditional alcoholic spirits but without the alcohol. They offer alternatives for rum, whiskey, gin, and more, allowing you to craft classic cocktails in a non-alcoholic version.
Best For Creating mocktails that mimic classic cocktails like a Negroni, Old Fashioned, or Gin and Tonic.
Ritual offers non-alcoholic versions of popular spirits like tequila, gin, and whiskey. These are designed to be mixed in traditional cocktails, providing the familiar flavors without the alcohol.
Kin Euphorics offers a range of non-alcoholic beverages designed to enhance mood and relaxation. Their drinks are crafted with adaptogens, nootropics, and botanicals. Some popular options include Kin Spritz (sparkling) and High Rhode (herbal).
Best For: A relaxed evening drink or social gatherings.
Notes: Flavor is not for the the untrained pallet – do not recommend the flavor however had a good relaxed feeling to it.
Transparent Paneling:
Scoring System (100-Point Scale)
- Appearance (10 points): Evaluation of the visual appeal, including color, clarity, and overall presentation.
- Aroma (20 points): Assess the fragrance, noting complexity, strength, and any off-putting or artificial scents.
- Taste (40 points): The primary focus, scoring based on flavor profile, balance, sweetness, bitterness, acidity, and aftertaste.
- Mouthfeel (20 points): We Consider the texture, carbonation (if applicable), body, and how it feels on the palate.
- Overall Experience (10 points): A holistic rating, considering drinkability, satisfaction, and how the beverage compares to similar products.
Tasting Procedure
- Blind Tasting: Beverages are to be served in unmarked glasses to ensure unbiased evaluation.
- Temperature Control: beverages are at their optimal temperatures (e.g., chilled, room temperature) to enhance their qualities.
- Palate Cleansing: water and plain crackers or bread for panelists to cleanse their palate are supplied to panelist
- Timing: We allow sufficient time between each sample to prevent palate fatigue, with short breaks if necessary.