Trying to Cut Back on Booze? These 7 Non-Alcoholic Drinks Actually Help

Cutting back on alcohol is hard enough; there’s no need to make it feel like punishment. Not when there are non-alcoholic drinks that look, feel, and even taste like the real thing. These aren’t average sodas or fruit juices. They’re legit alcohol substitutes, made to mimic beer, wine, or gin, but without the headache, hangover, or regret.If you’re taking a break, quitting for health reasons, or looking for smarter choices at parties, these drinks make the transition easier. And yes, most of them are available in Nigeria.Here are 7 non-alcoholic drinks that can actually help you stop drinking alcohol and still feel like you’re in it. 1. Ginger Beer Bottleking₦1,450Ginger beer is often mistaken for ginger ale, but it’s way stronger in a good way. It has that punchy, slightly strong taste that reminds you of dark rum or whisky mixers. It’s non-alcoholic, but the taste is complex and sharp enough if you’re used to strong drinks.Pair it with lime over ice, and you have a mocktail that hits hard without hitting your liver. Brands like Royalty and Old Jamaica are popular options, and you can find them in most supermarkets. 2. Gordon’s Alcohol-Free Bottleking₦35,600If you like a good Gin and Tonic, Gordon’s has an alcohol-free version that’s surprisingly close to the original. It uses the same juniper and citrus botanicals as the regular Gordon’s gin but with zero alcohol.Mix it with tonic water, add a slice of lemon or cucumber, and have a clean, refreshing drink that gives the same feel as actual gin. It’s one of the easiest transitions if gin is your go-to drink. 3. Scavi & Ray Alcohol-Free Sparkling Wine Cellar Central₦11,800This is the sparkling wine you bring to a dinner party when you’re off alcohol but still want to pop bottles. Scavi & Ray’s alcohol-free line mimics the crisp, bubbly mouthfeel of real prosecco or cava but with no booze.It’s not overly sweet and pairs well with food. The bottle looks elegant, so you won’t feel left out when the corks start flying. A perfect alcohol substitute for special occasions. 4. Chamdor Sparkling Red Grape Barrels.ng₦5,460Chamdor is the original non-alcoholic wine substitute for Nigerians. The red grape version is a bit sweeter than actual red wine, but it still gives that deep, fruity flavour you’d expect. It’s a great choice if you want something festive but alcohol-free.Serve it chilled in a wine glass. Widely available and budget-friendly too. 5. Chamdor Sparkling White Grape Barrels.ng₦5,460This one works well for parties, dinner dates, or toasting without real champagne. The white grape version has a cleaner, drier finish than the red and feels slightly more refined.It’s not a perfect swap for white wine, but it’s close enough that you won’t miss the alcohol. Plus, it’s easily found in major Nigerian supermarkets and online. 6. Copenhagen Sparkling Tea BLA (Alcohol-Free) Cellar Central₦18,200This one’s for the wine connoisseurs or people looking for a more refined substitute. Copenhagen Sparkling Tea BLA is brewed like tea but carbonated like wine. It has layers: floral, herbal, and a bit of bitterness, just like some wines.It’s alcohol-free but feels very adult. It pairs well with food and is a solid alternative if you want to ditch alcohol but keep the classy feel. 7. Mocktails (Chapman, Mojito) Food NetworkGet the recipe (Negroni mocktail)Mocktails are more than just sugary mixes. When done right, they give you all the complexity of a real cocktail, without the booze. For example, Chapman without the bitters, virgin mojitos with lime and mint, or even an alcohol-free Negroni for lunch.Most restaurants and bars now offer mocktail menus, and you can also mix your own at home using non-alcoholic bases like Gordon’s zero gin or sparkling tea. Tips for Reducing Alcohol Intake Without Feeling Left Out The key is choosing substitutes that still give you the satisfaction of a drink, i.e., the taste and feel, without the actual alcohol.These seven drinks do exactly that. They’re flavourful, intentional, and made for adults who want a drink without the hangover.