Non-alcoholic wines: how are they made and are they worth trying?

Non-alcoholic wine is gaining popularity, especially among those who enjoy the taste of wine but prefer to skip the alcohol. But how is it made? How does it differ from regular wine? And is it actually worth trying? Let’s break it all down. 

How is non-alcoholic wine made?  

The production process of non-alcoholic wine is almost identical to traditional winemaking. The same grapes are used, and the same stages are passed – fermentation, aging, and filtration. The main difference is that alcohol is removed at the final stage. There are several ways to do this.:  

• Reverse osmosis – alcohol is removed through a special membrane, preserving all the flavors and aromatic components. This is the gentlest methods.  
• Vacuum distillation – The wine is heated at a low temperature (around 27°C), allowing the alcohol to evaporate without affecting the taste too much..  
• The rotating cone column is one of the most modern ways to evaporates alcohol under the influence of steam.  

Since removing alcohol can slightly alter the wine’s taste, some producers enhance the final product with grape extracts or adjust the acidity. 

How does non-alcoholic wine differ from regular wine?

Structure and taste  

Alcohol plays a big role in a wine’s body, depth, and aftertaste. Without it, the wine feels lighter, smoother, and less intense. This is most noticeable in red wines, which lose some of their tannins—the compounds that add richness and structure..  

Fragrance  

Alcohol helps carry and intensify aromas, so non-alcoholic wines may have a milder scent, especially if heat was used during alcohol removal. 

Calorie content  

If you’re watching your calorie intake, here’s some good news! Regular wine has about 70-100 kcal per 100 ml, while non-alcoholic wine contains only 6-40 kcal. 

Gastronomic combinations  

Just like traditional wine, non-alcoholic versions pair well with different dishes, though their lighter taste calls for careful pairing. White varieties go well with fish and light appetizers, while reds complement meats and cheeses..  

Is it worth trying?  

Non-alcoholic wine isn’t meant to replace traditional wine—it’s an alternative for specific situations.. It is a perfect choice  for those who:  

• Do not want to drink alcohol, but love the taste of wine.  
• Lead an active lifestyle and prioritize their health.  
• Want a light and elegant drink for social gatherings, dinners, or business meetings.  Looking for a light drink for a party, dinner, or business meeting.  

The quality of non-alcoholic wine has improved significantly, and today, there are premium brands offering complex flavors and refined bouquets. The key is to choose trusted producers and remember that non-alcoholic wine is its own category—it's not an exact replica of regular wine but a unique experience.

Popular brands

Several well-known brands produce non-alcoholic wines.:

	J.P. CHENET. A French brand famous for its affordable yet high-quality wines. Their non-alcoholic line includes classic red and white wines with rich flavors, thanks to a carefully designed alcohol removal process.
	Les Grands Chais de France - One of France’s largest wine producers, offering a range of non-alcoholic still and sparkling wines crafted using traditional winemaking methods. Their products are celebrated for their fine bubbles, balanced taste, and vibrant aromas, making them a great choice for any celebration
	Casa Petru – following current trends and market requirements, the company has also started producing soft drinks. Today, the Casa Petru line includes two types of non-alcoholic wines: red sweet Cabernet Sauvignon and white sweet Chardonnay. These drinks retain the rich taste and aroma of traditional wine, remaining an excellent choice for those who prefer an alternative to alcoholic beverages.

These brands don’t specialize in non-alcoholic wines but have expanded their offerings to meet the growing demand. As more people look for alcohol-free options, the selection will only continue to grow!

Would you give non-alcoholic wine a try?