What’s the Point of Drinking Non-Alcoholic Beer?

What’s the Point of Drinking Non-Alcoholic Beer?

It’s a question I’ve been asked countless times: What’s the point of drinking non-alcoholic beer? At first glance, it might seem like a fair critique. After all, for a lot of people, the draw of beer has always been the alcohol. So, if you remove that, what’s left?

The truth is, there’s a lot left—flavor, ritual, and connection, to name a few. Non-alcoholic beer isn’t about replacing or canceling out beer with alcohol. It’s about expanding the possibilities. It lets you enjoy beer in more situations and on your own terms, without the side effects of alcohol. For me, that’s been life-changing.

A Personal Journey with Non-Alcoholic Beer

I’ve been sober for over six years now. And while I’m proud of that, I’ll admit there are moments, a couple of times a year, where I find myself longing for an ice-cold beer with alcohol. It usually happens on one of those perfect summer days—the kind where the sun is shining, the grill is going, and life feels simple. I’ll turn to my wife and say, “You know, I’d love to have a real beer right now.”

But I don’t. Not because I don’t trust myself, but because the thought of starting over or facing a hangover is terrifying. It’s been so long since I’ve felt that kind of foggy regret, and I have no desire to revisit it.

Instead, non-alcoholic beer gives me an alternative. It lets me lean into those moments, fully present, without compromising the values and commitments I’ve made to myself. It’s not about pretending alcohol doesn’t exist—it’s about giving myself more options to enjoy beer in ways that work for me.

What’s the Point of Non-Alcoholic Beer?

The question of what’s the point? isn’t just one I’ve wrestled with—it’s something Graham Matheos, the founder of One For The Road Brewing Co., turned into inspiration. Graham was asked this question so often that he decided to name one of his beers after it: What’s the Point?

The beer, a beautifully crafted wheat ale, isn’t just a clever response. It’s a challenge to the idea that non-alcoholic beer is a lesser version of the real thing. Instead, it’s proof that non-alcoholic beer can stand on its own as a truly satisfying experience.

In my opinion, What’s the Point? is one of the most underrated beers not just in Graham’s lineup, but in the entire Canadian non-alcoholic scene. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for those sunny days when a beer feels like the right choice, but alcohol doesn’t. If you haven’t tried it yet, I can’t recommend it enough. You can check it out here.

The Benefits of Non-Alcoholic Beer

So, what’s the point of drinking non-alcoholic beer? Let’s break it down:

1. More Beer, Fewer Consequences:
   Non-alcoholic beer lets you enjoy the taste of beer without worrying about the side effects of alcohol. It’s the perfect option when you want to stay sharp, avoid a hangover, or simply drink more beer over time without overdoing it.

2. The Ritual Without the Risk:
   Beer has always been about more than the buzz. It’s about the moment: cracking open a cold one, sharing laughs with friends, and unwinding after a long day. Non-alcoholic beer keeps that ritual alive, whether you’re at a party, a BBQ, or just relaxing at home.

3. Freedom to Choose:
   Non-alcoholic beer isn’t about saying no to alcohol—it’s about saying yes to choice. It’s for anyone who loves the taste of beer but doesn’t always want the alcohol.

4. Inclusivity:
   In social settings, non-alcoholic beer offers a way to join the fun without feeling left out. It bridges the gap, making it easier for everyone to feel included, regardless of their drinking preferences.

The Evolution of Non-Alcoholic Beer

Let’s be honest—non-alcoholic beer didn’t always have the best reputation. Years ago, most options were bland, watery, and uninspiring. But today, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Breweries like One For The Road are proving that non-alcoholic beer can be every bit as flavorful and satisfying as traditional beer.

Crafting a great non-alcoholic beer isn’t just about removing the alcohol. It’s about honoring the ingredients and processes that make beer so special in the first place. And with beers like What’s the Point?, it’s clear that non-alcoholic beer has earned its place in the craft beer world.

Final Thoughts: Why I Drink Non-Alcoholic Beer

For me, non-alcoholic beer isn’t about replacing alcohol—it’s about adding more depth to my relationship with beer. It lets me enjoy the moments I love, without the things I don’t miss.

And the next time someone asks, what’s the point of drinking non-alcoholic beer? I’ll say this:

The point isn’t about what’s missing. It’s about what’s gained—more beer, more freedom, and more ways to enjoy life without compromise.

So, crack open a cold one and embrace the possibilities. Because sometimes, the best beer is the one that lets you have it all.