Craft N/A: The Next Trend?

Hello, BA’s. I just signed up today for a new account. I was once a member, back around 2010. Feels good to be back. This time, as a non-alcoholic drinker. I was once an avid Homebrewer/beer enthusiast but decided to quit drinking about three years ago. Did I miss it? Not necessarily the alcohol but I did miss the flavor combination of hops, barley, water and yeast. As a proponent of traditional beer styles, I’m excited to see a brewery like Athletic focus solely on N/A beer. I have enjoyed their beer thoroughly. What are your thoughts on the craft N/A scene? Do you see it growing momentum and become a viable business opportunity for budding brewers/entrepreneurs? I’m especially eager to see what happens in my home state of Texas. It seems like a canned non-alcoholic, full flavored pale lager would fit perfectly here with our hot climate and outdoor activities. I wish more breweries like Live Oak would catch on and can a non-alcoholic pilsner. This movement is fascinating and I’m curious to hear where y’all see it going? Sorry for long post. Cheers!

 

Thank you! It's interesting because the N/A segment has basically been dormant for the past 30 years kind of like microbrewing was when it took off in the 60's and 70's. I see a lot of mixed reviews on these N/A beers from breweries like Athletic. Perhaps it's me being away from alcoholic beer for three years, but I find their beers incredibly enjoyable especially the Free Wave which has all the characteristics of a hazy pale ale. There are still hardly any options on the shelf where I live and most bars still do not serve craft N/A. The segment has a long way to go, another comparison to the craft beer revolution when it started. Cheers!

 

Indeed. I’ve read through a lot of it. I’m new to the N/A scene so eager to try a lot of the mentioned brands. Best I’ve had to date are Athletic offerings and Sam Adams Just The Haze with the latter showcasing Sabro hops incredibly well. I’ve also had Brooklyn Special Effects Amber Lager, and I thought it had nice aspects but also too many tea-like notes which threw me off a bit. Cheers.