By Tyler McMahon, Founder of Reducaholic
Since 2021, I’ve closely followed the non-alcoholic (NA) beer space and witnessed the rise of small-to-medium-sized breweries crafting their own NA beers, often serving them locally or in taprooms, with some even expanding into national distribution. To document this growing movement and encourage more participation, I created Reducaholic, a resource dedicated to the craft NA beer scene. The site features a map of breweries across the US that produce their own NA beer, with plans to include Canadian breweries soon.
Through my travels and beer tasting, I’ve sampled a wide variety of NA beers and have guided friends and family on finding the best local options. I’ve discovered that many smaller breweries, using their existing brewing equipment, are crafting outstanding NA beers that rival some of the most popular national brands. Below are a few of my favorite breweries and their standout NA beers, including some larger players with their own taprooms.
Colorado – Tommyknocker Brewery
Known for their root beer, Tommyknocker also produces excellent NA beer. They were early adopters of the Brewvo system, which creates NA beer without losing the body and flavor. Their Blood Orange IPA stands out for its strong hop character and citrusy finish, with the blood orange flavor complementing the beer without overpowering it.
Pennsylvania – Two Frays Brewing
While I haven’t visited Two Frays in person, I was introduced to their beers by Mel from Open Road Bar at the Mindful Drinking Fest. Their Red Martian IPA and West Coast IPA are among the best I’ve had. The brewery has leaned into the NA space with regular “MOD Mondays,” where no alcohol is sold, promoting moderation alongside their excellent beers.
California – Barrel Brothers
Barrel Brothers has established itself in the NA space, but enjoying their NA offerings on draft at their taproom is a unique experience. Their Hazy IPA and Dark Sarcasm Porter are highlights, and with their self-pour taps, a visit to sample their rotating NA beers is highly recommended.
Montana – Imagine Nation Brewing Company
In July, I finally had the chance to visit Imagine Nation during a work trip. Their Lupujus Zero New England IPA didn’t disappoint. Imagine Nation’s commitment to inclusivity for non-drinkers and their rotating NA beers make it a must-visit for anyone in Missoula.
Indiana – Lafayette Brewing Company
Indiana’s NA beer scene is impressive, with collaborations between breweries and bottle shops like People’s Brew and Generation NA. Lafayette Brewing’s Good Choices Amber, available on draft, is a personal favorite, especially when paired with chili mac and cheese. It’s one of many high-quality NA beers coming out of Indiana.
Minnesota – Multiple Breweries
Minnesota is a paradise for NA beer lovers, in large part due to ABV Technology, which helps breweries create small-batch NA beers. Some of my favorites include Badger Snack from Badger Hill Beer and CPB Dark Beer from Lupulin Brewing. I’m looking forward to trying 56 Brewing and Hackamore Brewing next time I visit.
Illinois – GO Brewing (Naperville)
GO Brewing launched in late 2022 and is rapidly expanding across the US, following a successful investment round. What sets GO apart is its focus on a taproom-first approach, where all their brews were initially available on draft at their Naperville location. Notably, GO Brewing is the only NA brewery in the US to offer multiple completely gluten-free beers, including Freedom Pale and Freedom Amber.
Virginia – Drink Uncool – Three Notch’d Brewing Company
Drink Uncool has quickly gained a reputation for its inventive beer flavors, including varieties inspired by pickles and pies. They are known for pushing creative boundaries. Despite the range of fun and unique options, their Hazy IPA stands out for me, especially when enjoyed on draft at their main brewery in Charlottesville. This brewery continues to offer some of the most distinct and memorable non-alcoholic beer options.
