Red or White: Choosing Your Non-Alcoholic Wine

In the past, the non-alcoholic options at your favorite bar or restaurant were probably pretty limited. With the growing interest in low and no-alcohol drinks, however, that’s all changing. Instead of a soft drink or club soda, you can now opt for a glass of non-alcoholic wine at many establishments. Learn more about non-alcoholic white wine and red wine in this guide from Joe Canal’s.

What Is Non-Alcoholic Wine?

Non-alcoholic wine has been around for years but has only recently gained popularity in the United States. There are two main methods for removing alcohol from wine. Some alcohol-free wines are made with a process called reverse osmosis, which filters out the ethanol but retains much of the original wine’s aromas and flavors. Others are made with vacuum distillation, which heats the finished wine slightly to burn off the alcohol. Reverse osmosis is more labor-intensive but is generally thought to produce a final product that tastes more like the original version of the wine.

You also might see beverages at your local supermarket that are labeled as non-alcoholic wine drinks. These are usually just sparkling fruit juices, and most winemakers don’t consider them to be a type of wine.

Why Choose Red or White Non-Alcoholic Wine?

Non-alcoholic drinks provide an alternative to conventional wine. They look and taste like their matching alcoholic varietals, but you can enjoy a glass without worrying about a hangover the next day. Whether you’re trying to cut back on alcohol, are the designated driver for a night out, or simply prefer the taste, there are plenty of great non-alcoholic wines to try. Plus, some people choose not to drink for religious or health reasons. If you’re hosting a dinner or a gathering, having non-alcoholic wine on hand is a great way to accommodate all of your guests’ preferences and help make them feel welcome in your home.

Non-Alcoholic Red Wine

Just like regular red wine, non-alcoholic reds can stand up to heartier dishes. But don’t go for foods that pair with Cabernet Sauvignon or another full-bodied red: non-alcoholic red wine is more akin to a light-bodied varietal. Try non-alcoholic red wine alongside dishes such as:

• Grilled tuna steaks
• Pork chops
• Turkey burgers

If you’re making a charcuterie board, non-alcoholic reds go well with hard, salty cheeses, such as manchego or pecorino.

Non-Alcoholic White Wine

The great thing about non-alcoholic white wine is that it’s quite versatile. Planning a champagne toast? Having a bottle of sparkling white on hand means you can include everyone in the group. If you’re selecting a bottle of wine to have with dinner, alcohol-free whites go well with:

• Vegetable dishes
• Seafood like shrimp or scallops
• Chicken and other poultry

When you’re pairing non-alcoholic white wine and cheese, note that bubbly whites work well with creamy cheeses, such as a wedge of Brie or Camembert. Non-alcoholic still white wines are versatile: depending on the flavor profile, they can go well with hard cheese like sharp cheddar or soft ones like goat cheese.

Shop the Wine Selection at Joe Canal’s

In search of the perfect non-alcoholic wine? Whether you’re planning a party or just want a bottle to enjoy with dinner, the knowledgeable staff at Joe Canal’s is here to help. Located in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, and serving customers in the surrounding areas, Joe Canal’s carries non-alcoholic reds, whites, roses, and sparkling wines. You’ll find alcohol-free options from winemakers including:

• Ariel
• Freixenet
• Sutter Home

Our in-store associates are available to answer any questions you have about the world of non-alcoholic wine. We also carry organic wines and low-calorie wines. Plus, we have an extensive selection of beer and spirits. And if you don’t have time to come into the store, our staff is happy to ship wine locally within NJ, as well as to customers in Florida and Washington, D.C. For more information on the best non-alcoholic red wine and white wine, contact us today.