Non-alcoholic spirits are becoming increasingly popular. And the range and quality of those available is getting better all the time too. With the promise of sophisticated flavours without the alcohol, why wouldn’t they? However, with the best non-alcoholic spirits often costing as much as their alcoholic counterparts some sceptics have asked: Are you just paying for fancy flavoured water? So let’s look at non-alcoholic spirits vs infused water and explore what – if any – the differences actually are.
Is it really worth your time and money to experience a non-alcoholic spirit, or will a flavoured water do the same thing? Let’s break it down.
How are non-alcoholic spirits made?
Unlike infused water, which is as simple as soaking fruits, herbs and/or spices in water for a few hours, non-alcoholic spirits often go through a more complex production process. Many brands use distillation, maceration and filtration techniques – as one would to make alcoholic versions – to extract and concentrate flavours. For example, brands like Lyre’s, create non-alcoholic versions of whiskey, gin, and even amaretto using blends of extracts, essences and distillates in an attempt to mimic the complexity of spirits.
Does infused water offer the same complexity?
If you’ve ever made a jug of cucumber-mint water or lemon-lavender iced tea, you know that infused water can be refreshing and flavourful. But can it really replace a non-alcoholic spirit in a cocktail?
The biggest difference lies in intensity and complexity. Infused water tends to be light, subtle and fresh. That’s kind of its MO. Inn contrast, non-alcoholic spirits aim to replicate the bold, layered profile of alcohol-based spirits. The use of distillation and botanical extraction means that non-alcoholic spirits generally have deeper, longer-lasting flavours that stand up to mixers like tonic or soda water.
For example, Strykk Not Gin, a (surprise) non-alcoholic gin alternative, has a concentrated herbal and spice profile. It delivers the expected in initial hit of juniper, offering that piney, resinous taste one often associates with alcoholic gins. This is followed by lemon and grapefruit notes providing a brightness that keeps the profile lively. As it develops, then you notice some more of the herbal aromatics, which grounds the drink. An infused water with the same ingredients might give you a hint of those flavours, but it wouldn’t have the same depth or complexity. Especially when mixed into a G&T-style drink.
Non-alcoholic spirits vs infused water: Price and experience
The biggest argument against non-alcoholic spirits is their price. A bottle of, for instance, Pentire Seaward is going to set you back somewhere north of a pony (although I certainly think it’s worth it). On the other hand, a homemade infused water costs pennies. So, what are you actually paying for?
- Craftsmanship and process – Many non-alcoholic spirits use distillation, blending and extraction techniques to build complex layers of flavour. Infused water, on the other hand, is a simpler process of steeping ingredients.
- Intensity and versatility – Non-alcoholic spirits are designed to hold up in cocktails. They often have added bitter compounds to mimic the bite of alcohol, something infused water lacks.
- Shelf life and convenience – A bottle of non-alcoholic spirit can last months, while infused water needs to be consumed pretty much straight away before it starts losing its freshness.
- Branding and marketing – Let’s be honest: part of what you’re paying for is branding. Beautiful packaging, premium positioning,and the idea of an “adult” alternative to alcohol all add to the cost.
Non-alcoholic spirits vs infused water: The verdict
So, are non-alcoholic spirits just expensive infused water? Not really.
Sure, there are some similarities in flavour profile, but they serve very different purposes.If you’re looking for a sophisticated, cocktail-ready drink that mimics alcohol’s depth and structure, a good non-alcoholic spirit (and the craftsmanship that goes into it) is worth the investment. But if you simply want a refreshing, hydrating drink, an infused water is a good (and much cheaper) substitute.
Image credit: Mae Mu