September 16, 2025 Plume Ridge Bottle Shop

Low-Alcohol Wines vs. Non-Alcohol Wines: What’s the Difference?

As more people look for balance between enjoying wine and living a mindful lifestyle, two categories have gained popularity: low-alcohol wines and non-alcohol wines. While they might sound similar, there are important differences in how they’re made, how they taste, and when you might choose one over the other.

What Are Low-Alcohol Wines?

Low-alcohol wines are exactly what they sound like... wines made with less alcohol than the typical 12–14% ABV. Many hovers around 8–11% ABV, though some styles can be even lighter.

How They’re Made

Harvesting grapes earlier, when sugar levels (and potential alcohol) are lower.

Using cooler climates, which naturally produce grapes with less sugar.

Certain styles like German Riesling, Moscato d’Asti, or Vinho Verde are naturally lower in alcohol.

Taste Profile

Low-alcohol wines usually taste fresh, bright, and fruit-driven, often with a touch of sweetness. They’re refreshing and great for lighter occasions, like brunch, picnics, or warm weather sipping.

What Are Non-Alcohol Wines?

Non-alcohol wines (sometimes called “alcohol-removed wines”) start as regular wine but have undergone a process to remove nearly all the alcohol, usually resulting in less than 0.5% ABV.

How They’re Made

Winemakers use techniques such as:

Vacuum distillation – removing alcohol at lower temperatures to protect flavors.

Reverse osmosis – filtering out alcohol while preserving aroma and body.

Taste Profile

Non-alcohol wines aim to mimic the flavors of wine with alcohol. While technology has improved, these wines may taste lighter and less complex compared to traditional wines. They’re a good option for people who want the wine experience without alcohol.

Low-Alcohol vs. Non-Alcohol Wines at a Glance...

Style: Low-Alcohol Wine Non-Alcohol Wine

Alcohol Content: 6–11% ABV Less than 0.5% ABV

Grapes with lower sugar; natural winemaking choices. Regular wine with alcohol removed

Taste: Fresh, fruity, often slightly sweet. Lighter-body may taste less complex.

Best For: Light meals, daytime drinking, wine lovers seeking moderation. Social occasions without alcohol, pregnancy, dry months, or health reasons

Which Should You Choose?

Choose low-alcohol wines if you want the taste and feel of traditional wine but in a lighter style. They’re perfect for wine lovers who want moderation without giving up the real wine experience.

Choose non-alcohol wines if you’re avoiding alcohol altogether but still want to raise a glass with friends.

Final Sip

Both low-alcohol and non-alcohol wines offer alternatives for today’s mindful drinkers. Whether you’re seeking balance or cutting out alcohol completely, there’s a bottle out there to match your lifestyle and still let you enjoy the ritual of wine.

Contributed by Blake Leland, Sommelier for Plume Ridge Bottle Shop.