Non-alcoholic beer, also known as NA beer, Nonny, or sober juice, is the perfect alternative for those who want to enjoy the taste of beer without the buzz. But let's be real, it's not just designated drivers and pregnant women who are drinking this stuff. There is the "I'm trying to cut back" crowd, and the "I just don't feel like getting drunk tonight" group too.
I have to start with the name. "Non-alcoholic beer" sounds like something your grandma would drink at a family gathering. It's like calling a toy car a "non-motorized vehicle." I think we need to spice it up a bit. That's why we have alternative names like na beer and nonny. These names make it sound like you're drinking something that's not only cool, but also a little bit dangerous. "I'll have an Na beer, please." Sounds like you're ordering a secret code word at a speakeasy. "Nonny for me, thanks." Sounds like you're ordering a drink at a hipster coffee shop.
Through out the Designated Drinks journey I have talked about how the industry has changed...for the better. Bland, watery and off tasting beers have been replaced with exceptionally branded great tasting beers...that only a select few know about.
Another thing about non-alcoholic beer is that it's often referred to as "near beer." This is not only a terrible name, but also a terrible description. "Near beer" implies that it's almost beer, but not quite. It's almost a real drink, but not quite. It's like "near pizza" or "near ice cream." It's not the real thing, but it's close close replica. After talking with the brewers of the non-alc the stuff is the real deal, difficult to make, and often contains the four pillars of beer...Barely, Hops, Yeast and Water...non-alcoholic beer is not "near beer." It's the real deal.
With any niche product there are some terms that people use, non-alcoholic beer has developed its own language. So, let's break down some of the different words, phrases, and names that non-alcoholic beer is called.
First, let's start with the obvious: non-alcoholic beer. This is the most straightforward term for beer that contains no alcohol. But, as we all know, sometimes straightforward isn't always the most interesting. So, let's move on to some of the more unique terms.
One of the most popular terms for non-alcoholic beer is "nonny". This term is a playful take on the word "non-alcoholic" and is often used by those in the industry. It's a great way to refer to non-alcoholic beer without sounding too serious.
Another popular term is "na beer". This term is short for "non-alcoholic beer" and is often used in casual settings. It's a great way to refer to non-alcoholic beer without sounding like you're talking about rocket science.
But, let's not stop there. There are plenty of other terms and phrases that non-alcoholic beer is called. For example, "near beer" is a term that dates back to the prohibition era. This term refers to beer that has had the alcohol removed or has a very low alcohol content. While "near beer" may not sound as appealing as "nonny" or "na beer", it's a term that has stood the test of time.
Another term you may have heard is "alcohol-free beer". This term is pretty self-explanatory and is often used by those who are looking for a beer without any alcohol. It's a great option for those who are looking for a beer that is completely alcohol-free. You can sound like a bit of a robot using this one!!
And finally, we have the term "designated driver beer". This term is often used to describe non-alcoholic beer that is consumed by someone who is the designated driver for the group. I don't use this one...ever...probably it is difficult to say!! This term is often used in a humorous way and is a reminder that non-alcoholic beer can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of whether or not they are the designated driver.
There are many different words, phrases, and names that non-alcoholic beer is called. From "nonny" and "na beer" to "near beer" and "alcohol-free beer", non-alcoholic beer has come a long way. So, next time you're out with friends and someone offers you a "nonny" or a "na beer", you'll know exactly what they're talking about. And remember, non-alcoholic beer is not only for designated drivers, it's for anyone who wants to enjoy a refreshing beer without the buzz.
Cheers!
Mike